Haas of the Stack

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Orkney

Scotland

Haas of the Stack

Haas of the Stack is a prominent coastal feature located in Orkney, Scotland. It stands proudly as a headland, jutting out into the North Sea. This stunning geological formation is known for its towering cliffs and distinctive stack, which is a solitary rock column rising from the sea.

The headland itself is composed of rugged sandstone and is characterized by steep slopes and sharp cliffs that reach heights of up to 200 feet. These cliffs are a result of thousands of years of erosion by the relentless waves and winds of the North Sea.

At the tip of the headland, the Haas of the Stack emerges dramatically from the sea. This stack is a testament to the power of nature, as it stands tall and resilient against the crashing waves. It is a popular spot for birdwatchers, as it provides nesting grounds for various seabirds, including guillemots, puffins, and kittiwakes.

The Haas of the Stack is not only a natural wonder but also holds historical significance. It is believed to have been used as a lookout point by the Vikings during their occupation of Orkney. The strategic positioning of the headland and its commanding views of the surrounding sea would have made it an ideal vantage point for monitoring incoming ships.

Today, the Haas of the Stack continues to captivate visitors with its awe-inspiring beauty and rich history. Whether it's the geological marvel or the mesmerizing wildlife, this coastal feature is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

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Haas of the Stack Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 59.330648/-3.0705136 or Grid Reference HY3949. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Noup Head

Alex McGregor

Noup Head Lighthouse

From the summit of Noup Head, Westray, Orkney Islands.

Michael Earnshaw

Westray - cliffs at Noup Head

Colin Park

Natural arch at Kelda Bar, Noup Head, westray

Colin Park

Cliff scenery at Kelda Bar, Noup Head, Westray

Colin Park

Westray - Noup Head Lighthouse

Colin Park

Cliffs at Noup Head

Garry Smales

Stack of Noup

Looking down the cliff face to The Less a group of rocks off Noup Head which is home to dozens of basking seals. Although this looks a tough descent there is a better route which is less steep through grass and plated rocks that gets you down there.

Andy Farrington

Rock Formations on the Stack of Noup

Climbing down the cliffs to the shore I came across several examples of this layered rock formation.

Andy Farrington

Stack of Noup

I didn't exactly climb down this cliff face but took a detour to the left through grass and plated rocks which was much less steep and doable. Nicholas Mutton took a great shot of the route to give you an idea Link

Andy Farrington

Plated Rock at Noup Head

Picture here of an easier route down the cliffs from the lighthouse to the shore.

Andy Farrington

Grip of Cleaton

As far down to the shore as I wanted to go. Straight ahead is The Less rocks off Noup Head with dozens of basking seals (foreground on the green coloured rocks), safe in the knowledge that their home is pretty inaccessible for most.

Andy Farrington

The only way is up

Now remind me, how did I get down here? This is the Stack of Noup with Noup Head lighthouse peeking over the top of the cliffs and I have to get back there to my vehicle, to drive to the ferry, to get off Westray and back to my holiday accommodation on mainland Orkney - simples! A great example of plated rocks.

Andy Farrington

Noup Head

Looking down from the higher ground near the lighthouse.

Bill Boaden

Hauled out seals, Noup Head

A wave cut platform beneath Noup Head, Westray.

Richard Webb

Cliffs at Noup Head, Westray

There is a flat grassy area beneath the cliff, and it is easy descend and see the cliff from the seaward side. The top of the lighthouse can just be seen over the top of the cliff.

Rob Burke