Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
The Orkney Mainland Coast SSSI encompasses the extensive and diverse coastline of the Orkney Mainland, the largest island in the Orkney Islands, located off the northeastern coast of Scotland. This protected area includes rocky shores, sandy beaches, cliffs, and intertidal zones that support important habitats for a variety of seabirds, marine mammals, and rare plant species. The coastline features impressive geological formations, including sandstone cliffs and coastal stacks shaped by millennia of erosion and wave action. Historically, Orkney’s coastline has been significant not only for its natural features but also for its archaeological sites, with remnants of Neolithic settlements and broch structures nearby. The area offers outstanding opportunities for wildlife observation, particularly seabirdwatching, as it hosts colonies of puffins, guillemots, and kittiwakes. Kayaking and coastal walking along marked or informal paths allow visitors to explore the rugged shorelines and observe seals and otters that frequent tidal pools. Its remote location and distinctive landscapes appeal to photographers and nature enthusiasts looking for quiet natural settings. While the coastline remains largely undeveloped, small villages and harbors provide access points. The Orkney Mainland Coast SSSI is vital for conserving the natural habitats that support biodiversity in this part of the northern Atlantic and for fostering sustainable outdoor recreation that highlights the ecological and cultural heritage of Orkney.
