Scarfi Geo

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Shetland

Scotland

Scarfi Geo

To Sumburgh Head Taken at Jarlshof, settlement site on Shetland dating back 4,000 years and still in use in the 17th century, I am looking across the West Voe of Sumburgh towards Sumburgh Head, the most southerly point of mainland Shetland. — To Sumburgh Head Credit: Carroll Pierce

Scarfi Geo is a prominent coastal feature located in the Shetland Islands, off the northeastern coast of Scotland. It is classified as a headland or point due to its protrusion into the North Sea. Scarfi Geo is situated on the west coast of the island of Unst, which is the northernmost inhabited island in the United Kingdom.

The headland is characterized by steep cliffs, rugged terrain, and dramatic rock formations. These cliffs, which reach heights of around 200 feet, are composed of ancient sedimentary rocks, including sandstone and shale. The exposed rock faces display fascinating geological features, such as layers of different colored rock and intricate patterns formed by erosion over millions of years.

Scarfi Geo offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding coastline and the North Sea. On a clear day, visitors can see the neighboring islands of Yell and Fetlar, as well as the distant outline of the Scottish mainland. The headland also provides excellent opportunities for birdwatching, as it is a nesting site for various seabirds, including puffins, guillemots, and razorbills.

Access to Scarfi Geo is possible via a footpath that leads from the nearby village of Haroldswick. The path takes visitors along the clifftops, providing breathtaking vistas along the way. Due to the exposed and often windy conditions, it is advisable to wear appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear when visiting Scarfi Geo.

Overall, Scarfi Geo is a captivating coastal feature that showcases the rugged beauty and natural diversity of the Shetland Islands. Its unique geological formations, panoramic views, and abundant wildlife make it an attractive destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.

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Scarfi Geo Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 59.857773/-1.3102584 or Grid Reference HU3808. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

To Sumburgh Head

Taken at Jarlshof, settlement site on Shetland dating back 4,000 years and still in use in the 17th century, I am looking across the West Voe of Sumburgh towards Sumburgh Head, the most southerly point of mainland Shetland.

Carroll Pierce

Wheelhouse entrance

This is a section of the extensive remains located at Jarlshof, Sumburgh, Shetland. The site was first settled around 4,000 years ago and had a succession of inhabitants through the Bronze and Iron Ages to Norse settlement and medieval farming following on until the 17th century. I am looking at an entrance to the wheelhouse complex on the site.

Carroll Pierce

Sumburgh Airport from Jarlshof

Taken on the inner path running between the wheelhouse complex and the Norse settlement at Jarlshof, Sumburgh, I am looking across the eastern edge of West Voe to Sumburgh Airport, Shetland's main airport.

Carroll Pierce

Sumburgh Hotel

I am near the visitor centre at Jarlshof, Shetland, and looking past the Shetland pony towards the Sumburgh Hotel which is flying the Shetland flag. The hill beyond crowned with radar installation is the landward side of Compass Head.

Carroll Pierce

Scatness from the air

Mike Pennington

Loch of Gards, Scatness, from the air

Mike Pennington

Ness of Burgi, Scatness, from the air

Mike Pennington

Horse Island, Scatness, from the air

Mike Pennington

Guillemots on a stack at Sumburgh Head

Mike Pennington

Sumburgh Lighthouse from the air

Mike Pennington

View across Sumburgh from the Head

With the airport further on.

John Lucas

Ness of Burgi and Fitful Head

Taken on the western side of Sumburgh Head, beside its lighthouse and visitor centre, I am looking across the West Voe of Sumburgh to the Ness of Burgi. The Bay of Quendale and Fitful lie beyond. Main island, Shetland.

Carroll Pierce

Sumburgh: Horse Island in silhouette

Looking towards this island off the southern tip of the Shetland mainland, from the Lerwick-Aberdeen ferry many miles away.

Chris Downer

West Voe of Sumburgh

Kirsty Murfitt

Sumburgh Hotel

This welcoming hotel, restaurant and bar was our first and last port of call on our visit to the Shetland Isles. I'm pleased to report that they had pretty much the full range of the islands' own excellent Valhalla Brewery ales in bottle, though none yet on draught when we were there. Photo taken on a dismally wet afternoon from the path to Jarlshof.

Rob Farrow

Jarlshof - Iron age settlement and visitor centre

On a very wet afternoon at the fascinating excavated site at Jarlshof - the section seen ahead here is from the Iron Age period with the visitor centre being the modern building behind.

Rob Farrow

Jarlshof - Neolithic dwelling remains

The oldest part of the Jarlshof site dates from about 2500BC or 4,500 years ago. This places it in the Neolithic or New Stone Age. Only a few stones remain as can be seen, but considerable pottery finds have helped in dating this area.

Rob Farrow

Jarlshof - Bronze Age dwellings

The Bronze Age and Iron Age areas of Jarlshof adjoin each other. I think this view is from the former period looking towards the latter. Unfortunately it was such a dismal day when we visited that we didn't linger as long here as we'd have liked - and my lens was getting covered in rain drops as can be seen !

Rob Farrow

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Scarfi Geo is located at Grid Ref: HU3808 (Lat: 59.857773, Lng: -1.3102584)

Unitary Authority: Shetland Islands

Police Authority: Highlands and Islands