Yesnaby Cliffs
Witness the raw power of the Atlantic at Yesnaby Cliffs, home to a dramatic sea stack and breathtaking coastal vistas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Most dramatic waves and views
Yesnaby Cliffs
Best Time
Most dramatic waves and views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness the raw power of the Atlantic at Yesnaby Cliffs, home to a dramatic sea stack and breathtaking coastal vistas.
"Spectacular scenery and an easy walk to an amazing rock formation. "
🧥 Pack for the Wind!
Windproof jacket & hood are essential. Umbrellas don't stand a chance!
👟 Sturdy Footwear Needed
Wear good walking shoes for the coastal paths.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Yesnaby Castle Sea Stack
Coastal path from the car park
Orkney's fragile masterpiece, carved by the Atlantic. A truly iconic sandstone stack.
Dramatic Coastal Views
Along the cliff edge
Experience breathtaking panoramas of crashing waves against rugged cliffs.
The Balanced Rock
Yesnaby Cliffs
A testament to nature's power, this ancient sandstone formation stands resilient against the sea.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wind!
Footwear and Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧥 Pack for the Wind!
Windproof jacket & hood are essential. Umbrellas don't stand a chance!
👟 Sturdy Footwear Needed
Wear good walking shoes for the coastal paths.
📸 Capture the Drama
Bring your camera for incredible seascapes and sea stacks.
🚶♀️ Easy Coastal Walk
A pleasant 15-25 min walk from the car park to Yesnaby Castle.
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Pack for the Wind!
Windproof jacket & hood are essential. Umbrellas don't stand a chance!
👟 Sturdy Footwear Needed
Wear good walking shoes for the coastal paths.
📸 Capture the Drama
Bring your camera for incredible seascapes and sea stacks.
🚶♀️ Easy Coastal Walk
A pleasant 15-25 min walk from the car park to Yesnaby Castle.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the stunning natural beauty and dramatic scenery of Yesnaby Cliffs, particularly the iconic sea stack. The relatively easy walk from the car park is appreciated, though the strong winds are a notable factor. It's a highly recommended stop for its raw, untamed coastal landscape.
"Wonderful to see this sea stack called Yesnaby Castle. It is a maybe 20/25 min walk from the car park. Just make your way along the coastal footpath, incredible views at every corner. One of many beautiful natural features of Orkney."
James W H
"It's quite a walk from the carpark but a very pretty one with a variety of scenery to enjoy"
ghislaine headland-vanni
"Definitely go and check this amazing rock out. Short walk from the car park with lots of brilliant coastline to look at."
Paul & Judy Exton
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Yesnaby Cliffs are located on the west coast of Orkney. From Stromness, drive west on the A965, then turn north onto the B9056. Follow signs for Yesnaby. The drive offers scenic views of the Orkney landscape.
Yes, there is a car park available near the cliffs, making it accessible for visitors.
Public transport options to Yesnaby are limited. It's best to have your own vehicle or consider a guided tour for easier access.
The most popular way is to take the coastal footpath from the car park. It's a relatively easy walk with stunning views.
There are no specific visitor facilities directly at the cliffs. It's advisable to bring your own refreshments and be prepared for the elements.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Yesnaby Cliffs are a natural attraction and are free to visit. There are no admission fees.
Yesnaby Cliffs are accessible at all times, as it's an open natural landscape. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and visibility.
There is no entrance fee to explore the Yesnaby Cliffs. It's a public access area.
While you can visit in the evening, be aware of diminishing light and potential safety hazards on the cliffs. Sunset can be spectacular, but caution is advised.
No booking is required to visit Yesnaby Cliffs. It's a natural site that you can explore at your leisure.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic Yesnaby Castle sea stack, dramatic waves crashing against the cliffs, and the rugged coastline offer incredible photo opportunities.
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, can provide beautiful light. However, stormy weather often creates the most dramatic and photogenic scenes.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the landscape. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on wet rocks and enhance sky colors.
The main coastal path offers numerous viewpoints. The area around Yesnaby Castle is a prime spot, but exploring further along the coast reveals more unique perspectives.
Always maintain a safe distance from the cliff edge, especially in windy conditions. Be aware of your surroundings and footing.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The walk from the car park to Yesnaby Castle is approximately 15-25 minutes, depending on your pace.
The main path is relatively easy, but it can be uneven in places. Those with mobility issues might find it challenging.
Dress in layers, including a waterproof and windproof jacket with a hood, a warm hat, and sturdy walking shoes.
The primary danger is the strong wind and the proximity to the cliff edge. Always be mindful of your footing and the weather conditions.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local guidelines and ensure you have permission if required, especially if flying near wildlife or sensitive areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of layers and ensure everyone has a windproof jacket. This will make the visit much more comfortable, even if the weather is blustery. Bringing snacks and drinks is also a good idea, as there are no facilities on-site. The dramatic scenery and the sound of the waves are sure to captivate young imaginations.
📸 Photographers
Experiment with different focal lengths; a wide-angle lens is perfect for the sweeping coastal vistas, while a telephoto lens can isolate details of the rock formations and wave action. Timing is key for capturing the best light. While stormy days offer unparalleled drama, the golden hours of sunrise and sunset can paint the cliffs in warm hues.
Be prepared for challenging conditions – wind can make tripods tricky, so a sturdy setup or handheld shooting might be necessary. Don't forget to protect your gear from sea spray. 🚶 Hikers & Nature Lovers
Wear appropriate footwear and be mindful of the terrain, which can be uneven and exposed. The wind is a constant companion here, so embrace it as part of the wild, natural experience.
The lack of crowds often means you can enjoy a peaceful immersion in nature, listening to the sounds of the sea and the calls of seabirds. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Power of the Atlantic
Visitors often describe the experience as visceral, with the roar of the waves and the spray of the sea creating an immersive encounter with the elements. On stormy days, the waves can be truly colossal, crashing against the cliffs with immense force, creating a spectacle that is both humbling and exhilarating.
This raw, untamed beauty is what draws many to Yesnaby. It's a place where you can feel the wildness of Scotland and witness the ongoing geological processes that shape our planet. The sheer scale and drama of the cliffs make it a must-see for anyone visiting Orkney.
Navigating the Windswept Coast
The coastal paths leading to the main viewpoints are generally well-trodden, but they can be uneven and slippery, especially after rain. Therefore, sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots are highly recommended to ensure stability and comfort.
Despite the challenging conditions, the effort is consistently described as 'well worth it' for the spectacular scenery.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit