The best walks and hikes around Noss National Nature Reserve

The trails around Noss National Nature Reserve offer a range of difficulties. While the primary activity is hiking along coastal paths, which can be boggy in places and require care on high sea cliffs, the komoot community rates the majority of the 39 available routes as moderate. There are 24 easy routes, 14 moderate routes, and 1 difficult route, ensuring options for various skill levels.

Yes, Noss National Nature Reserve is well-suited for circular walks. A popular anti-clockwise circuit around the island offers the best views of the seabird cliffs and typically takes 3.5 to 4.5 hours. For a comprehensive experience, the 'Island Circuit' covers the entire coastline. An example of a circular route is the Holm of Noss Cliffs loop from Noss, a moderate 5.5-mile (8.9 km) path.

No, dogs are not permitted on Noss National Nature Reserve. This restriction is in place to protect the island's immense seabird colonies and other wildlife. Visitors should make alternative arrangements for their pets.

Noss is renowned as an 'important seabird city,' hosting over 300,000 breeding seabirds during the season (mid-May to mid-July). You can expect to see thousands of gannets, puffins, guillemots, kittiwakes, fulmars, shags, and razorbills. Inland, Great Skuas (bonxies) also nest. Along the coast, look out for seals (harbour and grey), otters, and various cetaceans like whales, porpoises, and Risso's dolphins.

The most striking features are the dramatic sea cliffs, reaching up to 180 meters (500 feet) high. The Noup of Noss, also known as Noss Head, is the highest point and offers spectacular panoramic vistas. You'll also encounter diverse terrain including rolling grasslands, moorland, and a sandy beach at Nesti Voe. Keep an eye out for sea arches, such as those near Cradle Holm.

Noss National Nature Reserve is accessible by an inflatable ferry from the Isle of Bressay during the summer months (late April/early May to late August). Public transport options to Bressay would typically involve a ferry from Lerwick on Shetland. Parking would generally be available on Bressay near the ferry departure point, as Noss itself is a nature reserve with no private vehicles.

The best time to visit Noss National Nature Reserve for hiking and wildlife spotting is during the summer months, specifically from mid-May to mid-July. This period coincides with the peak breeding season for seabirds, when the cliffs are teeming with activity and sound. The inflatable ferry from Bressay also operates during the summer, typically from late April/early May to late August.

Yes, Noss National Nature Reserve caters to various skill levels, with paths suitable for casual walkers and families. While the coastal paths require care, the overall 'Island Circuit' can be adapted. The wardens at the visitor centre upon arrival can provide specific recommendations for routes that are more suitable for families.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 200 reviews. Reviewers often praise the dramatic coastal landscapes, the immense seabird colonies, and the unique experience of exploring a remote island. The opportunities for wildlife spotting, especially the 'stupendous aural chorus' of the birds, are frequently highlighted.

Yes, for those seeking a longer adventure, the Bressay and Noss loop is a moderate 10.5-mile (16.9 km) trail that takes approximately 4 hours 49 minutes to complete. This route provides extensive coastal views and opportunities for seabird spotting, extending the experience beyond Noss itself to include the neighbouring Isle of Bressay.

Visitors are advised to wear sturdy footwear, as paths can be boggy in places, and waterproof clothing, as the weather in Shetland can be changeable. Bringing binoculars for wildlife spotting is highly recommended to fully appreciate the seabirds and marine life. A visitor centre is available upon arrival where wardens can provide further information.