Hermaness Circuit, Unst

Colin Simpson

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There can be few, if any sections of Britain's coastline that are as spectacular as the Shetland coast with its cliffs, arches and an array of offshore sea stacks. The initial walk across the moor, where you are quite likely to be bombarded by the skuas, gives no indication of what is to come and the cliffs come upon you almost by surprise.

The walk along the clifftops is enlivened by thousands of puffins and other seabirds and gannets can be watched fishing offshore or just sitting in the great colonies at Hermaness itself; (take your binoculars).

The return over Hermaness Hill gives good views over Muckle Flugga and its lighthouse - the Northern tip of Britain followed by more encounters with these Skuas!

Scotland - Highlands and Islands - Shetland - Shetland Outer Isles

Features

Birds, Flowers, Great Views, Moor, Nature Trail, Sea
9/12/2020 - Kaye Leggett

Fab walk. Check the wind speed and direction before attempting. Also once you have reached the top of the hill, the route back is the way you came, walking a circular route is now not permitted, even if the OS map says there is a path.

10/31/2012 - Peter King

I have done this walk a couple of times and it always takes at least twice as long as you think it will - not because it's difficult, but because you have to keep stopping and looking. It is one of my very favourite walks anywhere in the world.