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Noss

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On a calm day in July I had the opportunity to explore Noss using my boat and took my fiancé Angéla with me to visit one of Shetland's and the North Atlantic's most important seabird colonies.


Noss is located behind the island of Bressay which itself is a short ferry trip from the main town of Lerwick.

As we approached the sight we were both in awe of the teaming birds that can be found soaring around and perched high on the cliffs, with spectacular scenes of Solans folding their wings while diving into the sea to catch fish. The sounds of all the birds nesting on the narrow cliff edges is incredible and has to be heard and seen in person to truly appreciate it. It reminded me of a part of the story in Granny Linda and the Lighthouse which is a children's story created by Jonathan Wills which I helped to re-print for Jonathan a number of years ago.Noss is simply a breath taking experience and one that can also be achieved by jumping onboard the excellent 4 star tour with Sea birds and seals which sets sail from Lerwick harbour 7 days a week during the summer.Have a look at our 360 Video and have a glimpse yourself.

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We encountered many different species including Fulmars circling over head, Solans diving for fish, Bonxies begging for food and puffins racing away as the boat passed by them with their tiny wings flapping away. We were also fortunate enough to see 4 Risso dolphins in between Noss and Bressay which seemed very inquisitive, circling the boat for a little while before heading off into the distance.




Noss - More information



Noss National Nature Reserve is a small island located in Shetland, Scotland. It is known for its spectacular sea cliffs, which provide nesting sites for a variety of seabirds, including guillemots, razorbills, and kittiwakes. The island is also home to a colony of puffins, which can be seen during the summer months.
Noss can only be accessed by boat, but once you arrive on the island, there are several walking trails that allow you to explore the rugged landscape and take in the stunning views. The trails are well marked and vary in length and difficulty, so there's something for everyone.
One of the most popular trails on the island is the Noup Head Trail, which takes you to the top of a steep sea cliff and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding islands and the North Sea. Along the way, you may also spot seals and otters in the waters below.
In addition to the wildlife, Noss also has a rich cultural history, with evidence of human habitation dating back over 4,000 years. The remains of a Viking farmstead can still be seen on the island, along with a 19th-century lighthouse.
Overall, Noss National Nature Reserve is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in wildlife, hiking, and stunning scenery. It offers a unique glimpse into the rugged beauty of the Shetland Islands and the incredible diversity of its wildlife.