Breid Geo

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Orkney

Scotland

Breid Geo

Noup Head
Noup Head Credit: Alex McGregor

Breid Geo is a coastal feature located in Orkney, an archipelago off the northeastern coast of Scotland. It is a prominent headland that juts out into the North Sea, forming a distinct point along the coastline. With its stunning cliffs and rugged terrain, Breid Geo is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.

The headland is characterized by its towering cliffs, which reach heights of up to 100 meters (328 feet) above sea level. These cliffs offer breathtaking views of the surrounding sea, as well as the opportunity to observe various seabird species, including puffins, gannets, and kittiwakes, nesting in the rocky crevices.

Breid Geo is also known for its geological significance. The cliffs display layers of sedimentary rock, providing a glimpse into the region's ancient geological history. Fossils, such as ammonites and belemnites, can sometimes be found embedded within these rocks, offering valuable insights into the area's prehistoric past.

Access to Breid Geo is relatively easy, with a coastal path leading visitors to the headland. However, caution is advised due to the steep and sometimes unstable nature of the cliffs. The best time to visit is during the summer months when the weather is mild and the bird colonies are at their busiest.

Overall, Breid Geo is a striking coastal feature that showcases the natural beauty and geological heritage of Orkney. It is a must-visit destination for those seeking stunning coastal vistas, wildlife encounters, and a glimpse into the region's fascinating geological past.

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Breid Geo Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 59.330184/-3.0591805 or Grid Reference HY3949. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Noup Head
Noup Head
Noup Head Lighthouse From the summit of Noup Head, Westray, Orkney Islands.
Noup Head Lighthouse
From the summit of Noup Head, Westray, Orkney Islands.
Westray - cliffs at Noup Head
Westray - cliffs at Noup Head
Natural arch at Kelda Bar, Noup Head, westray
Natural arch at Kelda Bar, Noup Head, westray
Cliff scenery at Kelda Bar, Noup Head, Westray
Cliff scenery at Kelda Bar, Noup Head, Westray
Westray - Noup Head Lighthouse
Westray - Noup Head Lighthouse
Cliffs at Noup Head
Cliffs at Noup Head
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.
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.
Rock Formations on the Stack of Noup Climbing down the cliffs to the shore I came across several examples of this layered rock formation.
Rock Formations on the Stack of Noup
Climbing down the cliffs to the shore I came across several examples of this layered rock formation.
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 <a title="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/953560" href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/953560">Link</a>
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
Plated Rock at Noup Head Picture here of an easier route down the cliffs from the lighthouse to the shore.
Plated Rock at Noup Head
Picture here of an easier route down the cliffs from the lighthouse to the shore.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Noup Head Looking down from the higher ground near the lighthouse.
Noup Head
Looking down from the higher ground near the lighthouse.
Hauled out seals, Noup Head A wave cut platform beneath Noup Head, Westray.
Hauled out seals, Noup Head
A wave cut platform beneath Noup Head, Westray.
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.
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.
Rock off Noup Head This rock sits below Noup Head lighthouse.  A few years ago a fishing boat ran aground here - the crew were saved, but the boat sank.
Rock off Noup Head
This rock sits below Noup Head lighthouse. A few years ago a fishing boat ran aground here - the crew were saved, but the boat sank.
A seal colony at rest on the skerry off  Noup Head.
A seal colony at rest on the skerry off Noup Head.
Show me another place!

Breid Geo is located at Grid Ref: HY3949 (Lat: 59.330184, Lng: -3.0591805)

Unitary Authority: Orkney Islands

Police Authority: Highlands and Islands

What 3 Words

///bookshelf.witless.vine. Near Pierowall, Orkney Islands

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