The Loup

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Caithness

Scotland

The Loup

A99 north of Keiss The A99 follows the east coast of Caithness from Latheron, where it leaves the A9, though the town of Wick to John o&#039; Groats at the north-east corner of the Highlands. The road is a trunk road between Latheron and Wick. It was part of the A9 until 1997, when the A9 was re-routed along what had been the A895-A882 link between Latheron and Thurso.

The A99 forms part of the North Coast 500 (NC500) which was launched in 2015. NC500 is a 516-mile scenic route around the north coast of Scotland, starting and ending at Inverness Castle, — A99 north of Keiss Credit: David Dixon

The Loup is a prominent coastal feature located in Caithness, Scotland. It is a headland that juts out into the North Sea, forming a distinctive point along the rugged coastline. The name "Loup" is derived from the Old Norse word for "leap" or "jump," which is fitting considering the dramatic cliffs and steep slopes that characterize this natural formation.

Standing at an impressive height of approximately 300 feet, The Loup offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area. From this vantage point, visitors can marvel at the vast expanse of the North Sea and the rugged coastal cliffs that stretch as far as the eye can see. The headland itself is composed of rugged, weathered rock, which adds to its striking appearance.

The Loup is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers due to its stunning natural beauty. The cliff edges provide a habitat for various species of seabirds, such as puffins and guillemots, making it a haven for birdwatchers. Additionally, the area is known for its rich marine life, with seals often spotted lounging on the rocks below.

Access to The Loup is relatively straightforward, with a well-maintained coastal path leading to the headland. However, caution is advised as the cliffs can be dangerous, and visitors are advised to stay on designated paths and avoid getting too close to the edge.

Overall, The Loup is a captivating coastal feature that offers visitors a chance to experience the raw beauty of Caithness' coastline. Whether it's the breathtaking views, the diverse wildlife, or the rugged cliffs, The Loup is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the region.

Show me another place!

If you have any feedback on the listing, please let us know in the comments section below.

The Loup Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 58.544062/-3.093325 or Grid Reference ND3662. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

A99 north of Keiss

The A99 follows the east coast of Caithness from Latheron, where it leaves the A9, though the town of Wick to John o' Groats at the north-east corner of the Highlands. The road is a trunk road between Latheron and Wick. It was part of the A9 until 1997, when the A9 was re-routed along what had been the A895-A882 link between Latheron and Thurso. The A99 forms part of the North Coast 500 (NC500) which was launched in 2015. NC500 is a 516-mile scenic route around the north coast of Scotland, starting and ending at Inverness Castle,

David Dixon

Layby on the A99 between Keiss and Nybster

David Dixon

Keiss Baptist Kirk and Manse

An early 19th century, symmetrical 2-storey, 3-bay house and a mid-19th century, simple rectangular single-storey church. Both are Category C listed buildings (LB14080 Link

and LB14081 Link

Historic Environment Scotland).

David Dixon

A99, Auckengill

David Dixon

A99, Springwell House

David Dixon

A99, northbound

The A99 runs 34 miles, across Caithness, from Latheron to John O' Groats ND3773 : The end of the road (A99). Link

N Chadwick

Coast near Auckengill

Sea pinks brightening the scene.

David Bremner

Minor road near Auckengill

Looking north-westward.

Peter Wood

Minor road approaching the A99 at Auckengill

Looking south-eastward.

Peter Wood

A section of the Stroupster Windfarm roadway

Looking south-eastward in the direction of Nybster. An inland sea fret was affecting visibility.

Peter Wood

Keiss War Memorial

Eirian Evans

Keiss Baptist Church

Simple mid-C19 church. It is Category C listed. There is a plaque which states "In memory of Sir William Sinclair Bart of Dunbeath, Founder and Pastor of this the first Baptist Church in Scotland 1750"

Eirian Evans