Geo of Saevaness

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Orkney

Scotland

Geo of Saevaness

Shapinsay Gas House All that remains of former gas works which dates from the mid 19th century. — Shapinsay Gas House Credit: Shirley Grant

Geo of Saevaness is a prominent coastal feature located in Orkney, Scotland. Situated on the northernmost tip of the island, it is characterized as a headland or point that extends out into the North Sea. The word "geo" is a local term used to describe a narrow, steep-sided inlet or cleft in the coastline, often formed by ancient glacial activity.

The Geo of Saevaness is renowned for its rugged beauty and dramatic cliffs, which rise up to impressive heights, providing a stunning vantage point overlooking the surrounding seascape. The headland offers panoramic views of the North Sea, with its turbulent waters crashing against the rocky shoreline below. The cliffs themselves are composed of sandstone and are home to a variety of nesting seabirds, including fulmars and guillemots.

Access to the Geo of Saevaness is relatively easy, with a well-maintained footpath leading visitors along the cliff edge. This allows for a leisurely stroll, providing ample opportunities to appreciate the breathtaking scenery and observe the diverse wildlife. The area is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and photographers, who are drawn to its untouched natural beauty and unique geological formations.

In addition to its natural attractions, the Geo of Saevaness also holds historical significance. The headland is dotted with the remains of ancient settlements, including Iron Age brochs and Norse ruins, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Orkney Islands.

Overall, the Geo of Saevaness is a captivating coastal feature that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and historical intrigue.

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Geo of Saevaness Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 59.01874/-2.9007533 or Grid Reference HY4814. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Shapinsay Gas House

All that remains of former gas works which dates from the mid 19th century.

Shirley Grant

Main Street, Balfour Village

This village was called Shoreside and was built in the late 1700s as home for workers on the Balfour estate.

Shirley Grant

Elwick

Looking south west across the square to Balfour Castle in the distance.

Callum Black

Bathhouse/dovecot tower, Balfour Castle, Shapinsay

This curious tower was built as a doocot and sea-water shower for residents and guests at Balfour Castle.

Michael Wills

Work Farm and Head of Work, St Ola, Orkney

Beef and sheep farm on a headland to the north east of Kirkwall, Orkney. Small loch impounded by an 'ayre' or bar at right

Karl Cooper

Shapinsay pier

Catherine Morgan

Saeva Ness lighthouse from Shapinsay Ferry

Saeva Ness lighthouse on Helliar Holm viewed from the Shapinsay ferry.

Bill Ross

Car Ness from Shapinsay Ferry

Wartime coastal defences at the tip of Car Ness viewed from the Shapinsay ferry.

Bill Ross

Saeva Ness Lighthouse

Saeva Ness lighthouse looks out across The String a short distance to the Head of Work on Mainland.

Bill Ross

Cormorants on rock outcrop

Rod Richmond

Balfour Castle

Grapes were once grown in the greenhouses here, in defiance of Adam Smith's assertion that a grape harvest in Scotland would be hopelessly uneconomic. Now the household confines its fruit-growing ambitions to rhubarb jam.

HelenK

The Shapinsay Ferry

Vehicles must reverse on to this shallow bottomed craft which takes about 25 minutes for the journey to Kirkwall. It serves islanders commuting to Kirkwall as well as tourists visiting this agricultural island.

Colin Smith

War Memorial at Elwick

The distinctive cross on a column stands by a road junction above Elwick, a former Viking anchorage. The round stepped stone ornaments by the memorial and the dry stone dykes are common on Shapinsay.

Colin Smith

Field near Balfour

An old mill which may become a crafts centre looms above the grassy hillside north-east of Balfour. In the foreground are the distinctive kochia or "red hot pokers".

Colin Smith

Balfour Castle

Imposing Victorian pile built around Cliffdale, the previous house. It is now an exclusive hotel.

Colin Smith

Shapinsay Harbour

Lobster boats and the Kirkwall RO / RO ferry use the small harbour at Balfour. Cannon decorate the quayside and the round tower in the background is "The Douche" - supposed to be a doocot and a saltwater shower!

Colin Smith