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Big Geo of Stromness

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Shetland

Scotland

Big Geo of Stromness

Qui Ness The grassy headland of Qui Ness can be reached by a narrow, well-worn but rather exposed path over a little neck of land - the sheep and lamb seen in this view have just ventured across to reach the extensive patch of grazing beyond. Either side are two deep geos, both with small stacks within them. The nearer one has a beach and is probably not eroding the link, but the more easterly one will no doubt extend by headward erosion and cut the Ness off to form an island in the near future (by geological time standards). To the right of the photo, Tame Holm has similarly been separated from its headland, West Ness, by a narrow channel of the sort much enjoyed by sea kayakers. In the distance, the far horizon is formed by Esha Ness and Ronas Hill, whilst the nearer grey cliffs in the centre of the view are the Ness of Hillswick with the dramatic stacks of the Drongs just visible to its west.
Qui Ness Credit: Andy Waddington

Big Geo is a prominent coastal feature located in Stromness, Shetland. It is a headland that extends into the North Sea, forming a distinct point that juts out into the water. The name "Big Geo" is derived from the local dialect and refers to a large rocky inlet or gorge, which is characteristic of this particular headland.

The geological formation of Big Geo is primarily composed of ancient sedimentary rock, with layers of sandstone and shale intermingled. Over centuries, the continuous erosion from the relentless crashing waves has sculpted the headland into its current striking form. The jagged cliffs and steep slopes provide a dramatic backdrop against the backdrop of the vast ocean.

Big Geo is not only a visually impressive coastal feature but also serves as an important habitat for various marine species. The rugged cliffs provide nesting sites for seabirds such as puffins, gannets, and fulmars. The surrounding waters are rich in marine life, attracting seals, dolphins, and occasionally even whales.

Due to its prominent location and natural beauty, Big Geo has become a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking coastal walks along the headland, taking in the stunning panoramic views of the North Sea and the neighboring islands. The area is also a popular destination for photographers, who are drawn by the dramatic scenery and the opportunity to capture the interplay between land and sea.

In conclusion, Big Geo of Stromness is a remarkable coastal feature that showcases the raw beauty of Shetland's rugged coastline. Its geological formation, diverse wildlife, and picturesque surroundings make it a must-visit destination for those seeking a truly immersive natural experience.

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Big Geo of Stromness Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 60.372387/-1.471311 or Grid Reference HU2965. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Qui Ness The grassy headland of Qui Ness can be reached by a narrow, well-worn but rather exposed path over a little neck of land - the sheep and lamb seen in this view have just ventured across to reach the extensive patch of grazing beyond. Either side are two deep geos, both with small stacks within them. The nearer one has a beach and is probably not eroding the link, but the more easterly one will no doubt extend by headward erosion and cut the Ness off to form an island in the near future (by geological time standards). To the right of the photo, Tame Holm has similarly been separated from its headland, West Ness, by a narrow channel of the sort much enjoyed by sea kayakers. In the distance, the far horizon is formed by Esha Ness and Ronas Hill, whilst the nearer grey cliffs in the centre of the view are the Ness of Hillswick with the dramatic stacks of the Drongs just visible to its west.
Qui Ness
The grassy headland of Qui Ness can be reached by a narrow, well-worn but rather exposed path over a little neck of land - the sheep and lamb seen in this view have just ventured across to reach the extensive patch of grazing beyond. Either side are two deep geos, both with small stacks within them. The nearer one has a beach and is probably not eroding the link, but the more easterly one will no doubt extend by headward erosion and cut the Ness off to form an island in the near future (by geological time standards). To the right of the photo, Tame Holm has similarly been separated from its headland, West Ness, by a narrow channel of the sort much enjoyed by sea kayakers. In the distance, the far horizon is formed by Esha Ness and Ronas Hill, whilst the nearer grey cliffs in the centre of the view are the Ness of Hillswick with the dramatic stacks of the Drongs just visible to its west.
Dandi Geo Muckle Roe is formed entirely of igneous rocks forming a pluton of Old Red Sandstone (Devonian) age, and all except the NE side are a Granophyre which forms dramatic red cliffs riven by geos, caves and natural arches. Dandi Geo is one of the narrower geos eroded from the west coast of the island just at the point where a small stream drains northwestwards from a series of small lochans. In the far distance, Esha Ness can be seen across St. Magnus Bay, itself a large basin possibly associated with an ancient meteorite impact.
Dandi Geo
Muckle Roe is formed entirely of igneous rocks forming a pluton of Old Red Sandstone (Devonian) age, and all except the NE side are a Granophyre which forms dramatic red cliffs riven by geos, caves and natural arches. Dandi Geo is one of the narrower geos eroded from the west coast of the island just at the point where a small stream drains northwestwards from a series of small lochans. In the far distance, Esha Ness can be seen across St. Magnus Bay, itself a large basin possibly associated with an ancient meteorite impact.
Crossing the outlet of Loch of Rusness Apart from needing to detour inland to avoid deep geos, the southwest coast of Muckle Roe offers easy walking terrain with short grass on the shallow soil formed by the disintegration of the hard granophyre into coarse sand. Paths materialise and evaporate from time to time as the terrain constrains the route, such as at the crossing point of the small stream draining Loch of Rusness. Two paths are apparent on the far side, one contouring nearer the cliffs on the right, and one diagonalling up the far side of the lochan. The latter was the one we chose, and it duly evaporated within a hundred metres.
Crossing the outlet of Loch of Rusness
Apart from needing to detour inland to avoid deep geos, the southwest coast of Muckle Roe offers easy walking terrain with short grass on the shallow soil formed by the disintegration of the hard granophyre into coarse sand. Paths materialise and evaporate from time to time as the terrain constrains the route, such as at the crossing point of the small stream draining Loch of Rusness. Two paths are apparent on the far side, one contouring nearer the cliffs on the right, and one diagonalling up the far side of the lochan. The latter was the one we chose, and it duly evaporated within a hundred metres.
Spindle
Spindle
Beach, South Ham A sheltered inlet on the otherwise rugged coast of Muckle Roe. It is also popular with seals.
Beach, South Ham
A sheltered inlet on the otherwise rugged coast of Muckle Roe. It is also popular with seals.
Fresh rockfall, Muckle Roe A pile of boulders beneath a clean bit of rock seen across Gulberswick Geo.
Fresh rockfall, Muckle Roe
A pile of boulders beneath a clean bit of rock seen across Gulberswick Geo.
Dandi Geo A long and deep inlet in the sea cliffs of Muckle Roe.
Dandi Geo
A long and deep inlet in the sea cliffs of Muckle Roe.
Moorland by Loch of Rusness A fine and bright morning had rapidly turned to heavy rain in the afternoon. The usual crisp and gravelly Muckle Roe moorland.
Moorland by Loch of Rusness
A fine and bright morning had rapidly turned to heavy rain in the afternoon. The usual crisp and gravelly Muckle Roe moorland.
Beach, South Ham The wild coast of Muckle Roe.
Beach, South Ham
The wild coast of Muckle Roe.
Burn of Lairdsloch Granite scenery, Muckle Roe.
Burn of Lairdsloch
Granite scenery, Muckle Roe.
Burg Ruined croft house on the west coast of Muckle Roe.
Burg
Ruined croft house on the west coast of Muckle Roe.
Dykes near Burg Pink and black stripes due to volcanic activity (related to the rocks on Papa Stour and Esha Ness?). The even weathering is striking, often the basalt stands proud or forms gullies depending on the country rock.
Dykes near Burg
Pink and black stripes due to volcanic activity (related to the rocks on Papa Stour and Esha Ness?). The even weathering is striking, often the basalt stands proud or forms gullies depending on the country rock.
Da Kist A two legged stack near Burg, Muckle Roe. The coast of Muckle Roe has examples of all the stages of coastal erosion on display. This is a stack nearing collapse or at least partial collapse.
Da Kist
A two legged stack near Burg, Muckle Roe. The coast of Muckle Roe has examples of all the stages of coastal erosion on display. This is a stack nearing collapse or at least partial collapse.
Da Kist Sooner or later there will be one wave too many for the "leg".
Da Kist
Sooner or later there will be one wave too many for the "leg".
Spindle Granite stack on the west coast of Muckle Roe.
Spindle
Granite stack on the west coast of Muckle Roe.
West Hill of Ham Hill with some big sea cliffs.
West Hill of Ham
Hill with some big sea cliffs.
Muckle Roe Viewed from Melby.
Muckle Roe
Viewed from Melby.
Sea Stack "Da Kist" The coastline within this square contains a number of cliffs and sea stacks. Most are somewhat loose and unsuitable for climbing, but the stack in this photo now has a route on the landward side facing away from this shot.
Sea Stack "Da Kist"
The coastline within this square contains a number of cliffs and sea stacks. Most are somewhat loose and unsuitable for climbing, but the stack in this photo now has a route on the landward side facing away from this shot.
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Big Geo of Stromness is located at Grid Ref: HU2965 (Lat: 60.372387, Lng: -1.471311)

Unitary Authority: Shetland Islands

Police Authority: Highlands and Islands

What 3 Words

///strays.fallback.falls. Near Brae, Shetland Islands

Nearby Locations

Sillock Holm Big Geo of Stromness Tame Holm Kneefill Ness West Ness Qui Ness

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Nearby Amenities

Located within 500m of 60.372387,-1.471311
Burg
Place: locality
Lat/Long: 60.3723106/-1.4670282
OpenStreetMap
Google Maps
The data included in this document is from www.openstreetmap.org. The data is made available under ODbL.
Kinch Rock Northumberland
North Steel Northumberland

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