Muckle Peat Geo

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Orkney

Scotland

Muckle Peat Geo

Rousay: postbox № KW17 42, Sourin A fairly modern postbox (1994 at the earliest, otherwise it would have POST OFFICE instead of ROYAL MAIL) at the junction of the B9064 and a minor road to a few houses. — Rousay: postbox № KW17 42, Sourin Credit: Chris Downer

Muckle Peat Geo is a prominent coastal feature located on the northeastern coast of the Orkney Islands in Scotland. It is considered a headland or point due to its jutting landmass into the North Sea, forming a distinct and identifiable geographical feature in the region.

The landscape of Muckle Peat Geo is characterized by its rugged and rocky terrain, with steep cliffs that rise up to approximately 30 meters (98 feet) above sea level. The cliffs are composed of sandstone and conglomerate layers, displaying unique geological formations that have been shaped by years of erosion and weathering.

One of the notable aspects of Muckle Peat Geo is its rich peat deposits. Peat is formed by the accumulation of partially decayed organic matter in wetland areas, and Muckle Peat Geo boasts extensive peat bogs that have developed over centuries. These peat bogs are of significant ecological importance, providing habitats for various plant species and serving as carbon sinks.

The location of Muckle Peat Geo also offers stunning views of the surrounding coastline, with panoramic vistas of the North Sea and neighboring islands. The headland is a popular spot for birdwatching enthusiasts, as it attracts a diverse range of seabirds, including puffins, guillemots, and razorbills.

Overall, Muckle Peat Geo is a captivating coastal feature that showcases the natural beauty and geological diversity of the Orkney Islands. Its rugged cliffs, peat bogs, and breathtaking views make it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and those interested in the unique landscapes of Scotland.

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Muckle Peat Geo Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 59.173517/-2.9631132 or Grid Reference HY4532. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Rousay: postbox № KW17 42, Sourin

A fairly modern postbox (1994 at the earliest, otherwise it would have POST OFFICE instead of ROYAL MAIL) at the junction of the B9064 and a minor road to a few houses.

Chris Downer

Lane towards Breck

Lane heading past Breck towards Faraclett and Scockness. A chapel is shown on the map here, but there's nothing resembling such a building amongst those to the right of the road.

Gordon Hatton

Nethermill Rousay

This also appears to be known as Sourin Mill and has an old cast iron wheel on this side, but does the wall to the right of the wheel show a former water race and possibly a breast shot arrangement? Lots of activity at the mill on this occasion as it looks as though it is under conversion to a dwelling.

Gordon Hatton

Hillside down to the Yetnasteen stone

No an easy subject to photograph as access across nearby fields is discouraged. The stone - 'Jotunna-steinn' in old Norse, which simply means 'giant stone' is over 2m high and is said to be a giant who was turned into stone. The giant must still have a thirst as legend says that the stone makes a few strides down the nearby Loch of Scockness at Hogmanay for a drink before returning. I guess that most locals would prefer a rather stronger drink at Hogmanay.

Gordon Hatton

Farmstead for superheros?

The abandoned farmstead is shown as Pow on the map, but maybe that should read as 'POW!' if owned by a local superhero. Slowly decaying with roofs collapsing and weeds rampant.

Gordon Hatton

Fields down to the shore

A near straight stone wall heads down the hillside towards the bar separating the Loch of Scockness from the sea.

Gordon Hatton

Cairn on Faraclett Head

The half mile or so between this point and the beginning of green fields further east is not a place to hang around during bird breeding season. Half a dozen arctic skuas, nasty characters at the best of times, take it in turns to fly aggressively at any human interloper. A trekking pole raised above the head fends off most attacks.

Gordon Hatton

North west side of Faraclett Head

A path makes a traverse of grassy slopes here, but the immediate coastal views of cliffs are disappointing due to the nature of the ground above. Views along the coast to the west are good.

Gordon Hatton

Coastline west of Faraclett Head

The foreground here is within the grid square, but much of the cliffline beyond is in an adjoining square.

Gordon Hatton

Swandale, Rousay

Looking right across the grid square from the Faraclett headland path towards the long abandoned farmstead of Swandale on the far side of a shallow valley.

Gordon Hatton

Two chambered cairns by the path

Green humps, shown as chambered cairns on the map, with only the nearer one being within the grid square. The nearby stile marks the way down towards the small parking area to the south of Faraclett farm, but the route is different to that shown on the 1:25000 map as it now heads directly down to the kink in the farm lane above the car park. Some expertise in gymnastics required to climb over two very high and part broken stiles on the way.

Gordon Hatton