Skibbie Geo

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Orkney

Scotland

Skibbie Geo

Holm of Faray View to the island from the ferry to Kirkwall with Lavey Sound to the far right of picture. — Holm of Faray Credit: Andy Farrington

Skibbie Geo is a prominent coastal feature located in Orkney, a group of islands situated off the northeastern coast of Scotland. It is specifically categorized as a headland or a point, as it extends out into the North Sea. The geo is enclosed by steep cliffs on three sides, with the fourth side opening towards the sea.

The headland is made up of sedimentary rocks, mainly sandstone and siltstone, which have been shaped over thousands of years by the relentless pounding of the waves. Skibbie Geo is known for its dramatic scenery, with its towering cliffs reaching heights of up to 100 feet. These cliffs provide nesting sites for various seabirds, including fulmars, guillemots, and kittiwakes, making it a popular spot for birdwatchers.

The headland is also home to a variety of plant species, adapted to the harsh coastal conditions. Sea thrift, sea campion, and rock samphire are amongst the flora that can be found clinging to the cliffs. The surrounding waters of Skibbie Geo are rich in marine life, attracting seals, dolphins, and occasionally even whales.

Skibbie Geo is a favorite destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts who can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding coastline and the open sea. The headland can be accessed via a footpath that meanders along the clifftops, providing opportunities for exploration and photography. Its natural beauty and diverse wildlife make Skibbie Geo a must-visit location for those seeking an authentic coastal experience in Orkney.

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Skibbie Geo Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 59.223627/-2.8305674 or Grid Reference HY5237. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Holm of Faray

View to the island from the ferry to Kirkwall with Lavey Sound to the far right of picture.

Andy Farrington

Faray

View to the island with Broad Sand Geo to the left and Long Sand Geo right on the shore. The abandoned dwelling to the left of picture on the horizon is Cott.

Andy Farrington

Langie Geos

View to Faray with the abandoned Windywall dwelling left of picture.

Andy Farrington

Holm of Faray

The western side of the island has a few geos. Tystie Geo and Outfloe Geo are visible here.

Bill Boaden

Point of Dogs Bones and Lavey Sound

The southern tip of the Holm of Faray facing the northern tip of Faray.

Bill Boaden

Faray

The remains of Quoy Farm are on top of the rise, while the cliff below is split by some geos.

Bill Boaden

Cliffs of Faray

The beginning of a sandy beach which is not very accessible. On top is an abandoned croft called Cott.

Bill Boaden

The west coast of Faray

Ruined crofts are behind, the largest one being called Roadside.

Bill Boaden

The west coast of Faray

Langie Geos are to the left with Windywall croft behind. Holland croft is to the right.

Bill Boaden

Ruined farm, Faray

Rapness Sound and Westray in background

Dave Simpson

Eday from Faray

Sound of Faray and Fersness Bay in background

Dave Simpson

Going ashore, Djubi Geo, Faray

There are very few landing sites on the Island of Faray. Djubi Geo is one of the best. Depending on wind, weather and tides it is used for landing and taking off sheep.

Douglas Caldow

Lavey Sound and Holm of Faray

Lavey Sound separates the northern tip of Faray (in the foreground) from the Holm of Faray except at low tide. The small pile of rocks in the right foreground is a well located at HY529378, and Westray can be seen on the distant horizon.

Douglas Caldow

Burial Ground, Faray

Most of the 30 or so gravestones date from the mid 1800s to the early 1900s. Stony rubble (not visible in the photo) in the southeast corner of the walled enclosure indicates the site of an earlier chapel.

Douglas Caldow

Doggerboat Farmhouse (east side), Faray

In 1881 Faray had nine named houses according to the census, however the island has neen uninhabited since shortly after World War II.

Douglas Caldow

Long Sand, Faray

The name suggested for this beautiful sandy beach is based on the 1880 (revised 1900, 2nd edition printed 1903) Ordnance Survey map's name for the large geo located halfway along the beach. The scale for the referenced map is 6 inches = 1 mile.

Douglas Caldow

Hamar Farmhouse (south & east sides), Faray

In 1881 Faray had nine named houses including Hamar (sometimes spelled Hammar). The island's population was 72 people at that time of which 8 lived at Hamar including the island's school master and his wife and infant son. Faray has been uninhabited since shortly after World War II. Hamar was reroofed a few years ago to provide shelter for newborn lambs.

Douglas Caldow