Geo of the Gruad

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Shetland

Scotland

Geo of the Gruad

Waves in Bluemull Sound from Westing
Waves in Bluemull Sound from Westing Credit: Mike Pennington

Geo of the Gruad is a prominent coastal feature located in the Shetland Islands, Scotland. It is classified as a headland, specifically a point jutting out into the sea. The name "Geo" is derived from the Old Norse word meaning "inlet," which accurately describes the geography of this area.

Situated on the eastern coast of Shetland, Geo of the Gruad is characterized by its rugged cliffs, which rise dramatically from the North Sea. These cliffs are composed of sedimentary rocks, such as sandstone and shale, which exhibit striking layers and formations. Over thousands of years, the relentless force of the ocean waves has sculpted the cliffs, creating caves, arches, and other erosional features.

The headland offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, with the open sea stretching out to the horizon. It is also an important habitat for various seabird species, including puffins, guillemots, and fulmars, which nest along the cliffs. Visitors to Geo of the Gruad can witness these birds in their natural habitat, soaring above the crashing waves or perched on narrow ledges.

Access to Geo of the Gruad can be challenging due to the steep cliffs and lack of designated paths. It is advisable to exercise caution when exploring the area, paying attention to safety warnings and staying away from the cliff edges. Nevertheless, for those seeking a unique and awe-inspiring coastal experience, Geo of the Gruad offers a stunning display of natural beauty and geological history.

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Geo of the Gruad Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 60.719068/-0.98294526 or Grid Reference HP5504. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Waves in Bluemull Sound from Westing
Waves in Bluemull Sound from Westing
Loch of Papil, Cullivoe
Loch of Papil, Cullivoe
Backhouse, Cullivoe
Backhouse, Cullivoe
Houses at Cullivoe
Houses at Cullivoe
Black-winged Pratincole (Himantopus himantopus), feeding with sheep, Papil, Cullivoe Looking rather incongruous feeding in a field and a long way from the Mediterranean.
Black-winged Pratincole (Himantopus himantopus), feeding with sheep, Papil, Cullivoe
Looking rather incongruous feeding in a field and a long way from the Mediterranean.
Lamba Stack, Blue Mull, from the sea
Lamba Stack, Blue Mull, from the sea
The Vere from the sea
The Vere from the sea
Angling boat beside the Vere
Angling boat beside the Vere
Round Holm, Westing, from the sea
Round Holm, Westing, from the sea
Blue Mull from the sea
Blue Mull from the sea
Blue Mull from the sea
Blue Mull from the sea
Geo south of Lamba Stack, Blue Mull
Geo south of Lamba Stack, Blue Mull
Angling boat and the Vere
Angling boat and the Vere
St Olaf's Kirk, Lund I am standing beside the ruins of St Olaf's Kirk at Lund, Unst, Shetland, and looking across Lunda Wick towards the site of Norse ruins (a farmstead and a broch) at Underhoull.
St Olaf's Kirk, Lund
I am standing beside the ruins of St Olaf's Kirk at Lund, Unst, Shetland, and looking across Lunda Wick towards the site of Norse ruins (a farmstead and a broch) at Underhoull.
St Olaf's Kirk, Lund (interior) The ruins of St Olaf's Kirk, Lund, Unst, Shetland, built in the Celtic style and dating back to the C12th.
St Olaf's Kirk, Lund (interior)
The ruins of St Olaf's Kirk, Lund, Unst, Shetland, built in the Celtic style and dating back to the C12th.
Common Snipe, Westing beach
Common Snipe, Westing beach
Holiday cottage at Ayre of Newgarth, Westing High seas washed away the wall and took waves into the front garden last winter, so a breakwater has been constructed this summer, made from sections of old salmon cages.
Holiday cottage at Ayre of Newgarth, Westing
High seas washed away the wall and took waves into the front garden last winter, so a breakwater has been constructed this summer, made from sections of old salmon cages.
Creeping Thistle (Cirsium arvense), Lund St Olaf's Church in the background.
Creeping Thistle (Cirsium arvense), Lund
St Olaf's Church in the background.
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Geo of the Gruad is located at Grid Ref: HP5504 (Lat: 60.719068, Lng: -0.98294526)

Unitary Authority: Shetland Islands

Police Authority: Highlands and Islands

What 3 Words

///setting.position.sprains. Near Uyeasound, Shetland Islands

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