Highlight • Natural Monument
The Gloup Sea Cave
Hiking
5.0
(56)
Running
5.0
(2)
The Gloup Sea Cave, often simply called The Gloup, is a dramatic collapsed sea cave forming a vast chasm on the east coast of the Deerness peninsula in the Mull Head Nature Reserve, Orkney Mainland, Scotland. This striking natural monument, whose name derives from the Old Norse word "gluppa" meaning chasm, is a testament to the relentless power of the sea against the sandstone cliffs of the Orkney Islands. The chasm itself is approximately 70 meters long, 40 meters wide,…
Tips
April 25, 2023
Hiking
June 20, 2023
Running
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Nearby routes
Best routes near The Gloup Sea Cave
4.7
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77
hikers
8.77km
02:21
100m
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
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219
hikers
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01:38
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4.9
(7)
15
hikers
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150m
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 20 m
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Friday 20 March
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Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 29.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Gloup Sea Cave suitable for families with young children?
While the walk to The Gloup is relatively short and easy, the area around the chasm is unfenced and features steep drops. Wooden viewing platforms offer safe vantage points, but constant supervision is essential for young children. The surrounding Mull Head Nature Reserve offers wider, more open spaces for family walks, but caution is always advised near the cliff edges.
Are there any public transport options to reach The Gloup Sea Cave?
Public transport to the Mull Head Nature Reserve, where The Gloup is located, is limited. It is generally recommended to travel by car. There is a dedicated car park within the reserve, offering easy access to the site.
What other natural features or landmarks can be explored within the Mull Head Nature Reserve?
Beyond The Gloup, the Mull Head Nature Reserve boasts several other points of interest. You can explore the Brough of Deerness, an Iron Age promontory fort with remnants of a Norse settlement and church. The reserve also features the Covenanters Memorial and offers extensive coastal paths with dramatic cliff scenery, ideal for birdwatching and enjoying the rugged Orkney landscape.
How challenging is the terrain around The Gloup Sea Cave and the Mull Head Nature Reserve?
The walk from the car park to The Gloup is short and generally considered easy, though the terrain can be uneven. Within the wider Mull Head Nature Reserve, trails vary from gentle coastal paths to more rugged sections along cliff edges. Sturdy footwear is always recommended due to potentially slippery rocks and uneven ground, especially in wet or windy conditions.
Are there any cafes, pubs, or accommodation options near The Gloup Sea Cave?
The Mull Head Nature Reserve itself does not have cafes or accommodation facilities. However, the nearby village of Deerness and other areas on the Orkney Mainland offer various options for cafes, pubs, and accommodation. It's advisable to check local listings for current availability before your visit.
What is the best time of year to visit The Gloup Sea Cave for wildlife spotting?
The Mull Head Nature Reserve is a significant area for birdwatching. Spring and summer (roughly April to July) are generally the best times to visit for spotting nesting seabirds such as puffins, guillemots, and kittiwakes along the cliffs. During autumn and winter, you might observe migratory birds and enjoy the dramatic coastal scenery.
Are permits required to visit The Gloup Sea Cave or the Mull Head Nature Reserve?
No, permits are not required to visit The Gloup Sea Cave or to access the Mull Head Nature Reserve. Both are open to the public, allowing visitors to explore the natural beauty and historical sites freely. There is also no charge for parking.
What is the historical significance of The Gloup Sea Cave?
Beyond its geological formation, The Gloup holds some local historical anecdotes. It is said that during the 19th and early 20th centuries, old farm horses were led over its edge as a means of disposal. A more recent tale involves novelist Dame Barbara Cartland, whose boat reportedly sank in The Gloup in 1928, though the rock ledges she supposedly found safety on have since eroded.
Can you access The Gloup Sea Cave by boat or kayak?
Yes, adventurous visitors can access The Gloup by boat or kayak during calmer sea conditions. The sea still enters the chasm through a wide arch that was once the cave's original entrance. This offers a unique perspective, allowing you to experience a journey 'under the earth' from the water. However, this activity requires significant caution and experience due to the unpredictable nature of the sea.
What should I wear when visiting The Gloup Sea Cave, especially in winter?
Regardless of the season, it's advisable to wear sturdy, waterproof footwear with good grip, as paths can be uneven and rocks slippery. In winter, conditions can be particularly harsh, so dress in warm, layered clothing, including a waterproof and windproof outer shell. A hat and gloves are also recommended, as coastal winds can be strong and biting.
How crowded does The Gloup Sea Cave get, especially during peak season?
While The Gloup is a popular attraction, the Mull Head Nature Reserve is extensive, allowing visitors to spread out. During peak tourist season (typically summer months), the car park and main viewing platforms might see more visitors. However, it rarely feels overly crowded, especially if you venture onto the longer trails within the reserve. Arriving earlier in the day can help avoid busier periods.