Gloup circular — Mull Head Nature Reserve, Orkney Islands

The Gloup circular trail at Mull Head Nature Reserve offers a moderate hike through dramatic coastal scenery on the Orkney Islands. You'll walk along cliff edges where the North Sea crashes against the rugged shoreline, experiencing diverse terrain from coastal grassland to heather moorland. The route is 5.5 miles (8.8 km) long with an elevation gain of 341 feet (104 metres), typically taking around 2 hours and 21 minutes to complete. As you hike, you'll see wildflowers like sea pinks and spring squill, and in late summer, the heathland glows with purple ling. The impressive Gloup, a collapsed sea cave, is a key visual landmark where seawater surges into a deep chasm.

This moderate route involves varied terrain, including grassy tracks and coastal heath, but also undulating and steep sections, especially around the Brough of Deerness. Be prepared for parts of the trail that can be boggy, with duckboards in some areas to help you along. The path to the Brough of Deerness includes a steep and narrow descent and ascent, sometimes with a safety rope, so wear appropriate footwear and be cautious, particularly in wet conditions. A shorter, more accessible path directly to The Gloup is available from the car park if you prefer a less challenging walk. Remember that the area around The Gloup is unfenced, requiring great caution due to steep edges.

Mull Head Nature Reserve is a haven for wildlife, especially seabirds like kittiwakes, guillemots, and razorbills nesting on the cliffs. You might also spot puffins, seals, and otters in the area. The reserve is a designated Local Nature Reserve, recognized for its rich wildlife, geology, and history. The sheer cliffs reveal 390-million-year-old sedimentary rocks, offering a glimpse into the ancient lake that once covered Orkney. The ongoing erosion by the sea continues to shape these cliffs, creating unique features like The Gloup.