Savil Less

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Orkney

Scotland

Savil Less

Shag, Papa Westray Stood on the cliffs at the RSPB reserve of North Hill on Papay Westray — Shag, Papa Westray Credit: hayley green

Savil Less is a prominent coastal feature located in the Orkney Islands, situated off the northeastern coast of mainland Scotland. It is specifically categorized as a headland or point due to its distinct geographical formation and its position extending out into the sea.

Savil Less is characterized by its rugged, rocky terrain, which is typical of the Orkney landscape. The headland is composed of ancient sandstone and is known for its steep cliffs that rise dramatically from the surrounding shoreline. These cliffs provide a habitat for various seabird species, including puffins, guillemots, and fulmars, making it a popular spot for birdwatching.

The headland offers breathtaking panoramic views of the North Sea, with the vast expanse of blue stretching out to the horizon. On a clear day, it is possible to see neighboring islands, such as Eday and Stronsay, adding to the scenic beauty of the area.

Savil Less is also notable for its historical significance. The headland is home to several archaeological sites, including ancient burial mounds and standing stones, which provide valuable insights into the prehistoric settlements of the region. These sites attract both researchers and tourists interested in exploring Orkney's rich history and cultural heritage.

Overall, Savil Less is a captivating coastal feature that showcases the rugged beauty of the Orkney Islands. Its unique geological formation, diverse wildlife, and archaeological treasures make it an appealing destination for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and those seeking an escape to the remote and picturesque Scottish coastline.

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Savil Less Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 59.366924/-2.8710498 or Grid Reference HY5053. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Shag, Papa Westray

Stood on the cliffs at the RSPB reserve of North Hill on Papay Westray

hayley green

Waves, up towards the top of North Hill, Papa Westray

hayley green

Two Ponies

Two ponies in a field above the beach with a distant view towards Hundland.

Rude Health

View Along Fence And Wall Near Berry Hill

Rude Health

Three Fulmars On Papa Westray

Rude Health

Great Auk Memorial

Memorial to last Great Auk killed in Britain in 1813, Fowl Craig, Papa Westray.

Jonathan Taylor

Great Auk Statue

This commemorates the last breeding Great Auk in Britain, it was shot in 1813. Great Auks are now extinct.

Shirley Grant

Loch of Ness

The Loch of Ness and the bay of North Wick beyond, on Papay (Papa Westray), Orkney.

Shirley Grant

Near Fowl Flag

The north-east cliffs of Mull Head on Papa Westray

Lis Burke

Fowl Craig

As its name suggests, a nesting site for seabirds. This is within the RSPB North Hill reserve on Papa Westray.

Lis Burke

Arctic skua

Known as a scootie allan in Orkney, this bird feeds by harassing kittiwakes and terns into dropping their catch of fish. There are light and dark morphs (or varieties), as well as intermediate morphs. This is a light one. Around 100 pairs nest on the North Hill reserve.

Rob Burke

Guillemots and razorbills on Fowl Craig

The guillemots are the grey and white birds to the right of the picture. The ledges of the craig provide nest sites for 200 razorbills and 1600 guillemots.

Rob Burke

Razorbill on Fowl Craig, Papa Westray

Only a small part of the craig can be seen from the cliff-top path, but this razorbill obligingly stood at a corner.

Rob Burke

Canoes at the roadside

Overlooking the tidal Loch of the Taing and North Wick on Papa Westray

Lis Burke

House at Hundland

A traditional Papa Westray house, long and low.

Lis Burke

Chambered Cairn Remains

Remains of chambered cairn at the north end of Holm of Papa. In the distance you can just see the impressive Chambered Cairn at the south end of this tiny island and I think the longest chambered cairn in Orkney. There were Fulmars nesting in the stalls of the chambered cairn in the foreground.

Adam Ward