Salmon Rock

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Caithness

Scotland

Salmon Rock

Salmon Rock is a prominent coastal feature located in Caithness, a historic county in the far north of Scotland. It is a headland that juts out into the North Sea, forming a distinctive point along the coast. The name "Salmon Rock" is derived from the abundance of salmon that can be found in the surrounding waters.

This coastal feature is known for its rugged and dramatic cliffs, which provide breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The cliffs are composed of layers of sandstone and shale, offering a glimpse into the area's geological history. The rock formations are also home to a variety of seabirds, including puffins, guillemots, and razorbills, making it a popular spot for birdwatching enthusiasts.

Salmon Rock is not only visually stunning but also holds great historical significance. It was once used as a navigational landmark for sailors and fishermen, guiding them safely along the coast. Today, it continues to be a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike, offering opportunities for coastal walks, picnicking, and photography.

The headland is easily accessible, with a well-maintained footpath leading visitors to the edge of the cliffs. However, caution is advised when exploring the area, as the cliffs can be steep and unstable. It is recommended to wear appropriate footwear and stay within designated paths for safety.

Overall, Salmon Rock is a picturesque and historically rich coastal feature that showcases the beauty and diversity of Caithness's natural landscape. Its combination of stunning cliffs, diverse wildlife, and cultural significance make it a must-visit destination for those exploring the region.

Show me another place!

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

Salmon Rock Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 58.43672/-3.0785524 or Grid Reference ND3750. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Castle of Old Wick

The ruined remains of possibly the oldest castle in Scotland. It was reputed to have been built by the half Norse, Earl of Caithness, Harald Maddadson, in the 1160's. It is now under the protection of Historic Scotland.

Glen Breaden

Sea Inlets

The coastal scenery around the Old Castle of Wick is amazing with vertiginous cliffs, geos, arches, stacks and rocks that when there is a high sea with an accompanying wind the sea is tumultuous.

Glen Breaden

MOD Rifle Range

A rifle range with all the accoutrements including the sentry boxes when in use.

Glen Breaden

Headland View

The high cliffs to the south of the headland supporting much pretty thrift or pinks as they are also known.

Glen Breaden

Farm Track

Track to Harden the closest farm to the rifle range.

Glen Breaden

Coastal Scene

Fractured and shattered pavements of slanting rock make this piece of coastline most attractive.

Glen Breaden

Wild weather

Peter Moore

Cliff Face

Cliff face at South Head, below the old Coastguard Station

John MacKenzie

Wick Business Park

Town planners should pay heed to what out of town developments have done to Wick town centre. This retail park and the Tescos on the north side of town have all but killed a once prosperous town centre.

Peter Moore

Preparing to climb at the base of the stack

As can be seen in ND3648 : Sea Stack and Arch there's only a narrow gap between the cliff opposite the stack and the stack itself. Here we can see that we can get to the base of the stack by abseiling down the landward cliff and then jumping/swinging across to the stack. Having climbed the stack the return can then be achieved by tyrolean traverse as in ND3648 : Returning from the stack or by abseiling down the stack and then climbing up the cliff on the landward side. Here the team are preparing to climb the southern face of the stack which, whilst not particularly difficult, is a tad loose.

Doug Lee

Returning from the stack

As can be seen in ND3648 : Preparing to climb at the base of the stack it is possible to abseil down the cliff opposite the stack and then jump/swing across onto the stack itself. Having climbed the stack the easiest way back is bring up the abseil rope, set up a tyrolean traverse and to return on that.

Doug Lee