Duncansby Stacks

The Duncansby Stacks are among Scotland's most impressive coastal formations, a cluster of dramatic sea pillars rising from the churning waters just south of Duncansby Head. While most visitors to this corner of Scotland stop at the famous signpost at John o' Groats, those who continue the short journey to Duncansby are rewarded with scenery that far surpasses anything at the more famous landmark.

The two main stacks, known as the Knee and the adjacent pillar, rise to over 60 metres from the sea. They were once part of the mainland cliffs, gradually isolated by the relentless erosion of wind and waves. The surrounding cliffs are home to thousands of nesting seabirds in summer, including puffins, guillemots, and razorbills, while the waters below often reveal seals basking on the rocks.

A short walk from the Duncansby Head lighthouse leads along the cliff edge to the best viewpoints, passing the dramatic geo (coastal inlet) known as the Glupe along the way. The stacks are particularly stunning in evening light when they glow golden against the dark sea. This is the real highlight of Scotland's northeast corner, a place where the raw power of nature is on full display.