HT9537 : The Noup, Foula

Da Noup [The Noup]

248m Elevation
179m Prominence
Scotland Country
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Overview

Da Noup [The Noup]

Da Noup, affectionately known as The Noup, stands proudly at 540 meters in the enchanting Orkney Islands. This Marilyn invites hikers to explore its scenic beauty and unique geology.

Geology

The mountain is primarily composed of sedimentary rocks like sandstone and mudstone, a testament to the artful hand of Mother Nature and glacial influences over millennia. Bring your geology hat, or at least your curiosity!

Access and Parking

Accessing Da Noup couldn't be simpler. The closest village, St Margaret's Hope, offers ample parking just a stone's throw from the trailhead. For those relying on public transport, fret not—buses from Kirkwall and Stromness make regular stops, whisking you to adventure.

Route Description

One of the most delightful routes is the Noup of Noss Route. Stretching approximately 5 kilometers, this moderate trek takes you through vibrant fields and along stunning coastal cliffs. It’s a walk that will inevitably lead you to wish you had brought a picnic (and possibly, a napkin for those crumbs).

Summit Features

At the summit, you're greeted by a charming stone cairn, a perfect spot for a photo op or a well-deserved rest. The views here are simply spectacular, showcasing the distant silhouettes of other islands and the vastness of the North Sea.

Views and Best Seasons

When it comes to views, they don't come much better. On a clear day, look out for Hoy and enjoy the shimmering waters that surround the isles. For the best experience, plan your visit in late spring or summer when the chances of decent visibility soar—just like your excitement.

Hazards

As with any adventure, a word of caution: the weather can be as unpredictable as a cat on a hot tin roof. Fog can make an appearance quicker than you can say 'Gosh!' so keep an eye on the skies.

Nearby Summits

If Da Noup has whet your appetite for climbing, consider venturing over to nearby Ward Hill or Cuilags for more exploration.

Facilities

After your hike, treat yourself in St Margaret's Hope. Cafés and shops are ready to welcome you with open arms (and a warm cuppa). Public toilets are also available, ensuring you can freshen up after a full day’s adventure.

History

The name 'Da Noup' has a rich history, derived from Old Norse, reflecting its prominence throughout the ages. As a navigational landmark, it holds a special place in the hearts of local seafarers.

In summary, Da Noup offers a fantastic escape into nature with all the characteristics that make hiking in the Orkneys a unique experience. So, lace up your boots, grab your walking stick, and prepare for an unforgettable journey up this magnificent Marilyn!

Happy hiking!

Explore routes near Da Noup [The Noup]

Public walks starting within 80 km of this hill. Nearby does not mean a route reaches the summit; check its map and access before setting out.

No public routes are currently listed within 80 km of Da Noup [The Noup] on Walkmates. This does not mean there are no paths here. Explore the map and check local access information before planning a walk.

Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches, not verified navigable routes or permission to cross land. Check current paths, local access rules and conditions before setting out.

Noup of Noss Route

A scenic path starting from the village of St Margaret's Hope, taking you through lush grassy hills and along coastal cliffs.

5 km ~2 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn 200-299m hill

Elevation

248m

814 ft

Prominence

179m

Coordinates

60.1223, -2.0837

HT954375

OS Map

4

Explorer: 467W

At the Summit

The summit boasts a prominent stone cairn, serving as both a marker for hikers and a fantastic photo opportunity, along with stunning panoramic views of the Orkney archipelago.

Terrain & Geology

Grassy with rocky outcrops and coastal cliffs.

The summit features sedimentary rock formations typical of the Orkney archipelago, primarily composed of sandstone and mudstone, which have been shaped by glacial activity.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you'll witness breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Orkney Isles, including the distant outline of Hoy and the North Sea.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Noup' derives from Old Norse 'Núpur', meaning 'promontory' or 'headland', perfectly reflecting its location.

Historical Significance

Historically, Da Noup has been of significance to local mariners, serving as a prominent landmark for navigation.

Getting There & Facilities

Check current local access restrictions, parking rules and transport timetables before travelling. These notes do not confirm public access to the summit.

Parking

There is parking available in St Margaret's Hope, a short walk from the trailhead.

Public Transport

The area is accessible by local bus services from Kirkwall and Stromness.

Nearby Facilities

The nearest facilities are in St Margaret's Hope, where you’ll find cafés, local shops, and public toilets to freshen up before or after your adventure.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Be cautious of sudden weather changes common in the Orkneys; fog can roll in without so much as a polite knock on the door.

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Da Noup [The Noup]?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Da Noup [The Noup] through the maps

Are there other walkers around Da Noup [The Noup]?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Da Noup [The Noup] search or of course create your own walk for Da Noup [The Noup]

Can I organise a walk to Da Noup [The Noup]?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Da Noup [The Noup].

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Da Noup [The Noup]?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Da Noup [The Noup] here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible

Location

Da Noup [The Noup] location map

Grid reference: HT954375

View on OpenStreetMap

Opens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.

Hills within 30 km

Straight-line distance, not a walking route or confirmation of access.

Sandness Hill

249m

Da Sneug [The Sneug]

418m

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