Tag: Waves

On December 16th, 2023, I assembled a recapping blog entry showcasing the first fourteen parts of a daily trek challenge which I began on May 1st, 2023.

The blog which assembles those entries can be viewed at this link: Recap for Whaligoe Steps 365… (Parts 1 to 14) – Whaligoe Eye

The daily trek challenge began on May 1st, 2023, hopes were high that I could walk and document life down and around Whaligoe Steps each and every day until May 1st, 2024. This was initially going to be utilising commentary and photography, but latterly has incorporated wee video clips too.

Personally, with all that life throws at us, something of this discipline is hard to achieve.

It is the three hundred and forty second day of my daily trek challenge and I can happily report that I remain on target to succeed in this ongoing endeavour.

Today is a Saturday, full of overcast skies and strong gusts, visitors are still dropping by to visit this location. Life goes on.

It’s also a good time to have fun with numbers. For example, roughly I may well have walked two hundred and three thousand, one hundred and forty eight steps thus far. Another way to look at such a distance is to say I have walked one hundred and one miles.

This achievement has highlighted the extraordinary stamina and results of those individuals who tackle the remarkable ‘Land’s End to John O’ Groats’ trek – Traditionally seen as the most extreme journey by foot within the United Kingdom, starting out in western Cornwall, England, and eventually finishing up in the northern territories of Scotland.

I’ve only managed perhaps a sixth or an eighth of what that distance would encompass. But still, it’s provided an insight to a coastal way of life, for those who would frequent the trail or stone steps down this cliff to the North Sea below.

Below is a photographic highlight which can be found via this link: Daily Trek Challenge (Part 15) – Whaligoe Eye (November 13th up to and including November 26th, 2023)

Dramatic skies are vibrant in the photograph below, found via the following link: Daily Trek Challenge: Part 16 (Nov. 27th – Dec. 10th, 2023) – Whaligoe Eye

Photograph of the sixth flight of Whaligoe Steps, found via the following link: Daily Trek Challenge during December, 2023 – Whaligoe Eye (December 11th, 2023 up to and including December 24th, 2023)

A serene rainbow captured during the fortnight I document during my daily trek challenge via the following link: New Year for my Daily Trek Challenge! – Whaligoe Eye (December 25th, 2023 up to and including January 7th, 2024)

Winter weather strikes me as I tackle another fortnight of daily treks down and around Whaligoe Steps: Daily Trek Challenge in January! – Whaligoe Eye (January 8th up to and including January 21st, 2024)

The moon tries to hide unsuccessfully during another fortnight of daily treks: Spring Whispers on a Daily Trek Challenge… – Whaligoe Eye (January 22nd up to and including February 4th, 2024)

A mixture of weather conditions captured during my daily treks throughout February: Frozen Frolicking in Fabulous February… – Whaligoe Eye (February 5th, 2024 up to and including February 18th, 2024)

Short video clip of the Whaligoe Steps waterfall: Dancing Waterfalls To Windswept Songs – Whaligoe Eye (February 19th up to and including March 3rd, 2024)

March offers up some pleasant weather in 2024: Beautiful Nights and Daily Flights – Whaligoe Eye (March 4th up to and including March 17th, 2024)

Beautiful coastal signs of spring photographed in another fortnight of daily treks: March Springs with Light and Life – Whaligoe Eye (March 18th up to and including March 31st, 2024)

Thank you for your kindness and support up to this point. All going well, I’ll be sharing another blog entry as April continues to entertain with changing weather conditions and visitors continue to arrive in larger numbers. At the time of this entry, the Bink (grassy platform at the base of the six flights of Whaligoe Steps) is still quite muddy and slippery, so caution is advised.

Take care, stay safe and thank you for being You.

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Welcome to part 24 documenting my daily treks down and around Whaligoe Steps. This fortnight covers Monday, March 18th up to and including Sunday, March 31st, 2024.

My intention is to tackle three hundred and sixty five consecutive trips around this region of the northern Scottish coastline, photographing and documenting the changing of the seasons, and to get a better insight into what it must have been like for the fishing industry and general life within this picturesque location over the previous centuries.

There were plenty of ‘new-to-2024’ moments this couple of weeks, like primrose blossoming, Eider duck swimming, pied wagtail in snow or a sighting of a rock pipit among other delights. As usual, I have photographs and also a couple of small clips to share.

March 18th, 2024: Sunlight shimmers on the tides.

Birdlife at Whaligoe Steps is rejoicing in the humble beginnings of Spring. Below is a windswept gull taking in a view.

March 19th, 2024: Clouds formed to create such varying canvas for light. Silhouettes found opportunities to spread their wings.

March 20th, 2024: A fulmar plays peek-a-boo to a clear blue sky, whilst a fishing boat slips by almost unnoticed behind a foreground of daffodils.

March 21st, 2024: Primroses are popping up in the grass and vegetation around Whaligoe Steps. These splashes of colour and vibrancy really add to the ambience of spring.

The moon on this Thursday evening was serene.

March 22nd, 2024: A silhouette whispers to a backdrop of overcast sky.

Below, you can also see the generous flow of the top section of the waterfall. During this fortnight, it has been chilled by a cold spell, windswept and soaked in sunshine.

March 23rd, 2024: Mute your volume for the clip before you play it. Blustery conditions while standing 250 feet up from the North Sea, panning along the horizon from the South section of the coastline view to eventually end up at the waterfall.

March 24th, 2024: On my ascent and wrapping up another daily trek, I suddenly became aware of a beautiful birdsong. During my first daily treks in 2023 tackling what seemed like an impossible challenge, a feathered friend kept me company.

Below, is my first encounter in 2024 of the wee wren which frequents this part of the coastline.

March 25th, 2024: Another fulmar looks on during a chilly morning trek.

There have been some beautiful moon-related moments during this fortnight in late March, and on this occasion I had my camera handy. A bright moon shines above some fluffy cloud formations which add personality to the lights which litter the distant horizon.

March 26th, 2024: What a Tuesday morning this one proved to be! I ventured onwards during a snowfall and was successful in capturing a moment with a local pied wagtail, as primrose felt burdened by the frozen tears of a brief winter flurry.

The sixth flight of Whaligoe Steps which descends directly onto the Bink, communicated the lightweight tone of this last gasp of freezing weather.

March 27th, 2024: Within a few hours, the snow had melted. During a wet Wednesday I was spoilt by the appearance of a skipping rock pipit.

In conjunction with birdwatching, the view was sporadically distracted with primrose flowers bursting through the rustic landscape.

March 28th, 2024: Eider duck according the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, are the heaviest and fastest flying ducks in the United Kingdom – Eider Duck Facts | Somateria Mollissima (rspb.org.uk)

Also below, an example of some waves reaching upwards to grab sunlight.

March 29th, 2024: It really was a ‘Good Friday’, with a radiant daffodil and a couple of contented rabbits enjoying the beginning of an Easter weekend.

Happy Easter!

March 30th, 2024: Plenty of early morning sunshine compliments the wildlife and flowers. Beautiful bloom and glowing plumage.

Visitors were certainly out and about around Whaligoe Steps as minor congestion built up outside my window. My parking space was used by those who needed it, and there was an active and positive atmosphere in the air.

March 31st, 2024: Easter Sunday began with a beautiful sunrise, as the moon was off to my right. It’s such a special ambience when both the sun and the moon come out to play simultaneously.

I wasn’t the only spectator who had the good fortune to witness this sunrise…

So that’s another fortnight covering my daily trek challenge, as I walk down and around Whaligoe Steps. Aiming for 365 consecutive days of documenting my findings and observations. Spring has most certainly arrived, and there are many examples of wildlife and flora showing signs of new life around these parts.

There are more signs of life on the North Sea too, as the tides are calmer and the sun is brighter.

Traffic in the car park and the only access point has significantly increased, so please keep that in mind if you’re planning to visit.

Thought I’d share this observation from March 31st. Not only more vehicles on the roads around here and in the North Sea with boating activity, but also an aeroplane or two in the sky.

Before I leave you with this blog entry, if you have a moment I filmed a relaxing clip as I sat on the pebble shore with the tide out. In the foreground are rock pools as your eye travels out to sea…

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Welcome to part 23 of my coverage from daily treks down and around Whaligoe Steps. Since May 1st, 2023, I’ve been taking photos and walking around this wee local region of the northern Scottish coastline.

Each and every day has been captured in one way or another for posterity, and has included storms of various names, snow, sunrises, wildlife and various silhouettes, plus the varying landmarks like the old Salt House, the boat winch, the plaques erected by the stonemason Charlie Juhlenski, and much more.

Generally, this fortnight from Monday, March 4th, 2024, up to and including Sunday, March 17th, 2024, was about the seabird population feeling at home on rocky ledges and flying. Signs of spring are really happening too.

Without further ado, let’s get to the action…

March 4th, 2024: A clear sky provided an inviting environment for fulmars and seagulls alike…

March 5th, 2024: Quite a contrast during this specific trek, as winds pushed the North Sea into dramatic poses.

March 6th, 2024: During this fortnight, the Bink (grassy platform at the base of the six flights of steps) was muddy and slippery. Below is the old Salt House and some general ambience.

March 7th, 2024: Back to some landscape bathing in sunshine. The view looking northwards along the coastline.

March 8th, 2024: Happy ‘International Women’s Day’

To acknowledge this special day, I took photographs of the two stone plaques celebrating Etta Juhle and her significant contribution to the Whaligoe Steps. Her son, Charlie was the stonemason who had these incorporated to the area, and has also made an invaluable contribution to the state they’re in when visitors drop by.

(There are blogs dating back to 2022, which add references to Charlie’s appreciated and marvellous handywork and trade skillset).

March 9th, 2024: Captured flying seabird silhouettes in a sky full of battle with sunlight and cloud.

March 10th, 2024: Personally, I feel I occasionally capture a photograph of something which seems to exhibit a tremendous presence in texture.

It doesn’t happen a lot, but below is an example of the North Sea being my model, and within the waves and tides a particular atmosphere is presented in the shapes and shading.

March 10th, 2024: During this particular day, I was able to position myself on the pebble shore and caught a short video clip of coastal ambience…

March 11th, 2024: Awaiting an abundance of new life as spring parades the catwalk, it’s a game of patience in some respects…

March 12th, 2024: “Get off my ledge!”

March 13th, 2024: These last couple of months have provided some beautiful skies. Below, among the glare of sunshine is a swooping seabird celebrating what it is to have freedom and wings.

March 14th, 2024: On top of Whaligoe Steps you may find a landscape crawling with wildlife. The humble rabbit, chomping on grass and rather alert to predators goes about a natural business.

March 15th, 2024: Thus far, I’ve witnessed a solitary daffodil plant located in the area of the Whaligoe Steps. Beautiful and vibrant yellow flowers break up the rustic landscape.

March 16th, 2024: A sunrise begins an ascendancy among clouds within a bright blue sky.

March 17th, 2024: To complete this blog entry, for Sunday, March 17th, 2024… The photos below showcase the trail descending the Whaligoe Steps, breaking up your journey with each flight and section.

If you were to tackle this physical course, on this day, the landscape you see below is what you’d be walking amongst.

Beginning your descent from the top left hand corner and letting your eye flow to the right, a track with grooves and gravel beneath your feet. This is then followed by a short series of stone steps.

Then you tackle the six flights of Whaligoe Steps…

Many thanks for your support, generosity of time and kindness, as always I like to acknowledge how much it means.

I hope that I get to share the next instalment of my daily trek challenge with you as I aim to achieve an entire 365 consecutive days walking down and around the Whaligoe Steps.

I just wanted to share this wee video clip of a wagtail, spotted at the base of the landfall here at Whaligoe Steps. Filmed on March 15th, 2024.

Until next time, take care and stay safe.

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Part 22 of my daily trek challenge, where I document each and every day from May 1st, 2023, walking down and around Whaligoe Steps.

Hoping to reach May 1st, 2024, where I’ll eventually accumulate an entire year of visiting the impressive stone steps and the immediate environment around here.

Witnessing the waterfall, broken anchor, boat winch, sunrises, seabirds, Bink, the six flights of steps, snow, ice, rain, wind, pebble shore, Beatrice wind farm, horizons, wildlife, changing of seasons, wildflowers and so much more.

This blog entry is for the fortnight of Monday, February 19th, 2024 up to and including Sunday, March 3rd, 2024.

Feb. 19th, 2024: I mentioned it before, but after this area receiving the impact of two waves of ‘bird flu’ and really depleting the seabird activity and presence here in recent years, it has been a relief to witness the current movements of fulmars and various gulls as coastal life slowly returns to a new sense of normality.

Feb. 20th, 2024: Sometimes the sun is hindered as it wakes to bring in a new day, so consequently an intense band of sunshine is sandwiched on the horizon.

Below is an example of wind turbine silhouettes where Beatrice wind farm is framed within a beam of sun.

Feb. 21st, 2024: Standing on top of a section of cliff known as “Horseback”, looking northwards up the coastline.

Feb. 22nd, 2024: Seabird’s eye view of the Bink and the Salt House, in close proximity to the sixth flight of Whaligoe Steps.

Feb. 23rd, 2024: After a couple of days where the winds and grey skies were plentiful, this particular Friday offered up such a contrasting blue canvas above.

Feb. 24th, 2024: Beautiful sunrise.

Feb. 25th, 2024: During a window of time where the North Sea was calmer and the skies found their harmony, it proved too inviting for fishing boats and other nautical traffic.

Feb. 25th, 2024 – Night: Beautiful moon observations over Whaligoe Steps…

Feb. 26th, 2024: A glaring sunrise provided the backdrop for a silhouette moment with a passing seabird. Not sure if it was a fulmar or a type of gull, but it was a beautiful image.

Feb. 27th, 2024: Today offered up more gusty and windy ambience as I tackled this daily trek. With that in mind, the clip below may suit a muted volume as the weather battered the microphone.

The waterfall was blown in the breeze, a windswept water dance.

Feb. 28th, 2024: Catching some strong sunshine on the boat winch during a lull in bleak weather.

Feb. 29th, 2024: More sunshine adding ambience to some restless waves.

March 1st, 2024: I managed to access the pebble shores on this particular trek, captured an image looking out to the North Sea.

March 2nd, 2024: The Bink is really showing signs from the rainfall and general reception to the past few years of visitors. Rustic and wet ambience.

March 3rd, 2024: The tide was drifting out when I noticed the broken anchor. Authentic in drizzle as it lay peacefully amongst the pebbles and rocks.

The next blog entry sharing my daily treks will hopefully cover Monday, March 4th, 2024 up to and including Sunday, March 17th, 2024.

Thank you so much for your support, generosity of time and kindness. Time is flying by and I cannot believe that March is well and truly underway already. Hints of spring are in the air as new growth pokes through the rustic landscape.

Take care of yourselves, sending you positive wishes only always.

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Part 21 of my coverage regarding daily treks down and around Whaligoe Steps which began back in May, 2023…

This blog entry covers the duration from Monday, February 5th, 2024, up to and including Sunday, February 18th, 2024.

There was snow once again, winds and prolific rainfall, plus outbursts of golden rays of sunshine. Momentary hints of the beautiful sunrises which regularly visit this coastline were observed too, plus most encouragingly, the presence of seabirds like gulls and fulmars gathering on the rocky ledges.

Feb. 5th, 2024: Mild and cloudy trek during this Monday moment. The photograph below capturing the wet and overcast day perfectly.

Feb. 6th, 2024: Seabirds wearing fancy dress costumes, or could they be jackdaws?

Feb. 7th, 2024: Below shows the third flight of Whaligoe Steps carrying the weight of some snowfall.

It was during this trek where I was able to photograph and experience an incoming blizzard which I’ll share…

This blizzard was brief, and quite an experience.

Feb. 8th, 2024: Snow remained prominent as can be seen by the photograph below. Sitting on the tips of the shrubbery were hints of snowfall bathed in the rays of a winter sun.

Feb. 9th, 2024: By Friday, most of the snow had thawed. It comes and goes along this coastline at quite a pace.

The photograph below shows off some restless waves of the North Sea and the condition of the fourth flight of Whaligoe Steps.

Feb. 10th, 2024: Waves had become more dramatic as the day rolled into Saturday.

Feb. 11th, 2024: Over the past couple of months, producing significant quantities of foam has been effortless for the North Sea waves during the consistent storms which have battered the U.K. coastlines.

This link over at National Ocean Service, explains further about sea foam and what it’s all about… What is sea foam? (noaa.gov)

Feb. 12th, 2024: A personal favourite when it comes to recent photographs of the sunrises which grace this stretch of the coastline.

Beatrice wind farm is faint below the radiant glare of the morning sun.

Feb. 13th, 2024: The broken anchor which lays around on the nearest pebble shore keeps moving. On this day, nestled among the pebbles and rocks when the tide was sufficiently out, I took this photograph.

Feb. 14th, 2024: To celebrate the association with romance for this particular day, below is a photograph of a couple of fulmars. They’re related to albatrosses and when they mate, they are monogamous for life.

Feb. 15th, 2024: Wet and drizzly ambience wraps itself around the remains of the old Salt House on the Bink.

Feb. 16th, 2024: Standing on the Bink and looking out across the North Sea to Beatrice and the horizon.

Feb. 17th, 2024: Maybe the clouds ran out of energy or exhausted their supplies of rain… Sunshine grows shadows on the third flight of Whaligoe Steps.

Feb. 18th, 2024: From a distance, you can get an overall view of the Bink and see some context with elements like the Salt House, and the placing of points regarding the zig-zagging flights of stone steps descending the cliffs.

So that brings us to a close, as another fortnight is showcased documenting my attempt at tackling treks down and around Whaligoe Steps for three hundred and sixty five consecutive days.

Above, is a thirty second clip I filmed of the waterfall here at Whaligoe Steps. The sun made the experience look gentle and inviting, although the wind on top of this cliff where I was standing remained present.

The next blog entry on this continuing adventure will share photographs from Monday, February 19th, 2024 up to and including Sunday, March 3rd, 2024.

Thank you for your generosity of time, kindness and support. Take care and know I’m sending you positive wishes.

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Thank you for dropping by this humble blogging website, which goes around and down Whaligoe Steps documenting life and exploring all manner of curiosities relating to this coastal location in the northerly area of the Scottish Highlands.

This blog is Part 18 of an ongoing series showcasing my attempts to trek down and around here each and every day for a whole year. To explore and document the changing seasons, to feel and experience what it must have been like for the families which carried fish up those steps, and for the fishermen who would have been active in this wee coastal indent; this remarkable, small, historical harbour.

You’re about to witness a fortnight from Monday, December 25th (Christmas Day) up to and including Sunday, January 7th. So prepare for some mighty peculiar time travel as we leave 2023 behind and enter 2024…

Dec. 25th, 2023: To make this Christmas Day expedition down and around Whaligoe Steps special, I carried a wee Christmas tree with me. Placing it in various locations around this area, I then proceeded to take some photographs. Gave it a festive flavour hopefully.

Dec. 26th, 2023: What a Boxing Day trek I experienced. A slightly restrained, but nevertheless beautiful sunrise.

Dec. 27th, 2023: Below is a blue glow as I tackled an early moment of restless weather around the third flight of Whaligoe Steps.

Dec. 28th, 2023: This time, the photo below is nearer to the mighty North Sea. Certainly a time of year for windy coastal weather, and therefore some active waves and tides.

Dec. 29th, 2023: Looking up the third flight of Whaligoe Steps during the early hours.

Dec. 30th, 2023: Often overlooked, this fifth flight of Whaligoe Steps is quite short in comparison to the rest.

At the time of this blog entry, I am aware of the gravel and scattered debris which currently litters these steps, but here before the recent storms hit the area you’ll notice how they look when they’re not covered.

Dec. 31st, 2023: Standing on the nearest of the wee pebble shores looking out across the North Sea on New Year’s Eve…

January 1st, 2024: The moon during my Monday trek, and what a sight for the first day of a brand new year.

Jan. 2nd, 2024: Gusts of impressive presence often took my breath away, but thankfully gave it back to me as well. North Sea roars once more as waves are in abundance.

Jan. 3rd, 2024: Waves crashing and clattering against rocky landscapes weren’t exclusive to a single day, they relented…

Jan. 4th, 2024: I have accumulated an impressive collection of sky-themed photographs during this daily trek challenge and prior, with the below capture showcasing the variation in cloud.

Jan. 5th, 2024: It’s one thing to experience many days of gusts, yet the rainfall around this time of year can also be plentiful. The photo below is of the landfall tucked away in a corner and off to the side of the Bink. As you can see, the rain is washing down crevice and groove.

Jan. 6th, 2024: This is a personal fave, I was standing on top of a cliff which is about two hundred and fifty feet in the air when I saw this delicate rainbow. It frames the coastline which wriggles northwards and is slightly highlighted by soft sunshine.

Jan. 7th, 2024: We reach the end of the first week of the new year, and this particular Sunday presented a rabbit or two. I’ve observed them over these past nine months.

There are about three fluffles or colonies of wild rabbit living at the top of Whaligoe Steps and I notice that when the sun shines, they’re more likely to hang around and catch some rays. If it’s cloudy or generally unpleasant, they aren’t so keen to pose for photographs.

Hopefully you’ll have a positive 2024, and I always like to share my gratitude with you, so please accept my humble thanks for all you are. Your time and kindness when I meet you in person or via social media is always welcome.

The next blog entry will continue regarding my adventures during these daily treks down and around Whaligoe Steps. This time covering the fortnight from Monday, January 8th up to and including Sunday, January 21st, 2024…

Take care, stay safe and know I’m sending you positive wishes only always.

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To research this area down and around Whaligoe Steps, along the Northerly coastline of the U.K. mainland in the Scottish Highlands, I decided to attempt tackling a trek each and every day since May 1st, 2023 for an entire year. This is another chapter providing some highlights of a fortnight witnessing the colder seasons of the year as we creep from November into December…

Nov. 27th, 2023: This particular Monday trek was mostly uneventful as the environment continues to adapt to the colder temperatures, rainfall and windy weather. Below is a photograph of the deteriorating 4th flight of Whaligoe Steps.

Nov. 28th, 2023: Seabirds around here have significantly diminished in numbers due to various factors, I think. One which springs to mind is the recent wave of ‘bird flu’.

Nevertheless, as November approaches December, my treks encountered these feathered friends in frivolous mood and flying around at the top of Whaligoe Steps.

Nov. 29th, 2023: Skies are an eye-catching natural wonder in this part of the world. This moment was captured during my trek on a particular Wednesday adventure.

Nov. 30th, 2023: Aren’t rainbows a lovely sight?

December 1st, 2023: The second flight of Whaligoe Steps…

Dec. 2nd, 2023: Let’s have a moment with the fiery orb dancing with clouds over the wind farm known as “Beatrice”, and the impressively cold North Sea.

Dec. 3rd, 2023: The local landscape during this specific morning trek was being poked by the finger of winter, as the presence of freezing temperatures turned some of the environment to ice.

Dec. 4th, 2023: During my Monday morning stroll along the Bink here at Whaligoe Steps, I was greeted with a sighting of a grey seal.

Dec. 5th, 2023: Blue was the mood for the weather, and the colour of the sky and sea during my trek on a Tuesday in December.

Dec. 6th, 2023: More ambience captured below, as the blue gives way to a soft orange glow on the horizon.

Dec. 7th, 2023: Throughout November, and still relevant to December, was the presence of impressive wave activity on the North Sea.

Dec. 8th, 2023: You’d be forgiven for thinking that the photograph below is a palm tree! Instead, it’s just another silhouette which caught my eye against a grey and ominous cloudy sky.

Dec. 9th, 2023: Around this point in December, I began noticing the return of the seabirds to Whaligoe Steps. Along many rocky ledges in the cliff face, fulmars and some varying seagulls began arriving and getting settled.

Dec. 10th, 2023: If you’re an animal lover, you may be wondering if you’re going to see a photograph of Star again. Well, here she is taking a break from catching rabbits and rodents.

Thank you for your generosity of time and once again for the kindness you share by simply social media support or by visiting this website. I’ve been fortunate to meet some really kind and interesting people who visit Whaligoe Steps, and as my daily trek challenge continues up to May 1st, 2024, I look forward to more encounters to come.

Here’s a link to my previous blog entry relating to the previous fortnight of the daily trek challenge – Daily Trek Challenge (Part 15) – Whaligoe Eye

Until my next blog entry, take care and stay safe. Thank you for being You.

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If you’re curious about my daily treks down and around Whaligoe Steps, catch up with this handy ‘recap’ link – Edit Post “Recap for Whaligoe Steps 365… (Parts 1 to 14)” ‹ Whaligoe Eye — WordPress

I’ve been wrestling a few distractions recently, so haven’t succeeded in publishing a blog about my continual adventures with the area around and down the impressive ‘Steps, but will be catching up with my entries in the coming weeks. This one will kickstart that process by covering November 13th, and finishing with November 26th… A fortnight of strong winds, chilly temperatures and some rustic landscapes.

Nov. 13th, 2023: Typical of this specific trek, a blustery and slightly chilly experience with waves dancing against coastal rocks.

Nov. 14th, 2023: Accumulation of foam was abundant during this Tuesday morning trek…

Nov. 15th, 2023: Despite the turning of weather and the challenge of negotiating rain and gusts, the skies remained triumphant in their many colours and textures, making it a pleasure to witness throughout this fortnight.

Nov. 16th, 2023: Beneath such stimulating skies were appearances from a companion I always welcome. Star the cat, in good form…

Nov. 17th, 2023: During my Friday trek, I was greeted with a beautiful and tangled sunrise as cloud and sunshine wrestled before me.

Nov. 18th, 2023: A common silhouette I photographed throughout this month and December.

Nov. 19th, 2023: I’m a self-confessed ‘student of life’ as I’ve mentioned in other blog entries, but capturing silhouettes against the beautiful skies here at Whaligoe Steps has been fun and interesting.

An example of visitors to this area, even in late November.

Nov. 20th, 2023: Dwelling beside puddles in the below photograph is the one remaining boat winch, overshadowed by the formidable cliffs which reach up to the skies at around two hundred and fifty feet high.

Nov. 21st, 2023: Looking down from the third flight of Whaligoe Steps, I noticed how turquoise the North Sea became during this cold November day.

Nov. 22nd, 2023: Did I make mention of the third flight of Whaligoe Steps?…

Nov. 23rd, 2023: It seems somewhat foolish to forget Whaligoe Steps also dwells at night time. The day has plenty to offer, but below is a photograph of the moon over this area on a Thursday evening.

Nov. 24th, 2023: Below is an example of a gushing, windswept waterfall here at the ‘Steps.

Nov. 25th, 2023: Now then, don’t leave any carrots about or something may pinch ’em. The rabbit population is present at the top of Whaligoe Steps and around the top of the cliffs here.

Nov. 26th, 2023: Another sky-related photo as looking up offers a chance for daydreaming.

Hope you enjoyed looking at this captured moments during the fortnight which was from Monday, Nov. 13th up to and including Sunday, Nov. 26th, 2023…

My next blog entry will continue the momentum of sharing captured moments from Monday, Nov. 27th, 2023 up to and including Sunday, December 10th, 2023…

Thank you for sticking with me during my daily trek challenge, for just being You really. The support and kindness shown via social media has been appreciated, and those occasions I get to meet folk who visit Whaligoe Steps and share their anecdotes. Sending you positive wishes only always.

Take care, stay safe.

Here’s a fun one of Star during my trek on November 25th…

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Welcome to my challenge of venturing down and around Whaligoe Steps for each and every day for an entire year. As my adventures continue, I’m accumulating quite a few photographs and also documenting a lot of activity. Therefore, I felt it only appropriate to provide you with links from my previous blogs…

Here are some links to previous blog entries showcasing my visits from May 1st, 2023, up to and including Sunday, November 12th, 2023…

Enjoy!

New Challenge (Part 1) – Whaligoe Eye

New Challenge (Part 2) – Whaligoe Eye

New Challenge (Part 3) – Whaligoe Eye

New Challenge (Part 4) – Whaligoe Eye

New Challenge (Part 5) – Whaligoe Eye

New Challenge (Part 6) – Whaligoe Eye

Daily Challenge (Part 7) – Whaligoe Eye

Daily Challenge (Part 8) – Whaligoe Eye

Daily Challenge (Part 9) – Whaligoe Eye

Whaligoe Steps 365 (Part 10) – Whaligoe Eye

Whaligoe Steps 365 (Part 11) – Whaligoe Eye

Whaligoe Steps 365 (Part 12) – Whaligoe Eye

Whaligoe Steps 365 (Part 13) – Whaligoe Eye

Whaligoe Steps – Three Hundred and Sixty Five (Part 14) – Whaligoe Eye

The first fourteen blogs covering my daily treks down and around Whaligoe Steps since May 1st, 2023 up to and including November 12th, 2023.

I hope you find it interesting, maybe beautiful and also stimulating. To focus attention on one specific location and watch it evolve and change over the seasons thus far, has proved most intriguing.

Nature continues to share changes and new revelations. I’m currently in the process of sorting two more blogs bringing us up to speed with the calendar as I have successfully maintained my daily treks to this very point in time.

Thank you, only always for dropping by and supporting my endeavours and for being You.

Until the next one, take care and be safe.

FACEBOOK: Whaligoe Eye | Lybster | Facebook

TWITTER (X) – Gary: Gary (@floodland08) / X (twitter.com)

TWITTER (X): Whaligoe Eye (@WhaligoeEye) / X (twitter.com)

EMAIL: WhaligoeEyeToo@gmail.com

Since May 1st, 2023, I have been tackling a trek to Whaligoe Steps each and every day for six months thus far, on my personal challenge to witness and document the changing of the seasons and to understand better what it’s like living so close to an engineering feat set in a cliff on the coastline of Scotland.

My aim is to finally share with you, all three hundred and sixty five days of natural wonders and beauty which can be found in this rustic location.

This blog entry covers Monday, October 16th up to Sunday, October 29th, 2023…

Everything from a weather system called ‘Storm Babet’ to some beautiful sunrises and dramatic skies took place during this fortnight, as I went down and around Whaligoe Steps in Caithness. Not far from here is the most northerly tip of the U.K. mainland, and with the coldest sea on the planet as your neighbour, you can count on some interesting and breath-taking views from day to day.

Oct. 16th, 2023: Sightings of both the grey seal inspecting the coastline, and rabbits on top of Whaligoe Steps sunbathing in the glow of another sunrise greeted me this Monday I ventured outdoors…

Oct. 17th, 2023: I was up promptly to catch what I felt would be a wonderful sunrise, and was not alone. Visitors tackling their own journey also captured the sunrise on this particular Tuesday morning.

Oct. 18th, 2023: What a difference a day makes. After sharing a peaceful morning with strangers and discussing all manner of fascinating topics to a backdrop of a stunning sunrise, the following morning as you can see below, cast a cold and grey shadow over the North Sea and Whaligoe Steps.

Beatrice, the off-shore wind farm would have trembled if it too knew what was to come over the next few days…

Photographs of the shallow cave, and the unrest wielded by the tides of the North Sea.

Oct. 19th, 2023: Storm Babet, a weather system which showcased true ferocity in strong winds and remarkable waves.

An actual photograph taken of a North Sea wave climbing up a cliff which is around two hundred and fifty feet tall!!

In the aftermath of these few days of Storm Babet, the landscape has been physically changed in a few locations. The base of the Salt House has a little difference, as does the base of the landfall tucked away in the corner; plus on the pebble shores – bare rock can be seen which was once covered in shingle and small stones.

Oct. 20th, 2023: Storm Babet continued into the following day…

Trying to stand still in ferocious winds to take accurate and precise photographs is something I haven’t experienced to this degree before. Below you can see the top of the waterfall, but winds blew the water upwards into the air.

Dramatic liquid monsters carved shapes in the waves as the roar of wild energy filled the skies. It quite literally took my breath away and will be an experience I won’t forget for a long, long time.

I must reiterate that my thoughts for those who lost their lives during this devastating storm are in my mind. The impact of this weather system on some has been something I cannot fully imagine. Sincere condolences to those who have been severely effected.

Oct. 21st, 2023: Marked by some as ‘day 3’ of Storm Babet, the North Sea continued to growl and toss ‘n’ turn…

Here’s a link to my blog showing my experience over these days of the weather system – Storm Babet Vs. Whaligoe Steps – Whaligoe Eye

Oct. 22nd, 2023: What a relief to feel some sunshine as a battered sunrise found ways to ease fingers between clouds, and to tease open those dark grey skies and share some blue and gold…

Oct. 23rd, 2023: A beautiful and calm trek in which a proper assessment of landscape-related damage could be deciphered. Below you have a photograph of a relieved pebble shoreline.

Also, a tranquil sunrise bathes a background for some curly silhouettes to gently sway in the coastal breeze.

Oct. 24th, 2023: Striking colours shimmered on the surface of the sea. The waterfall was generous as it gifted the North Sea plenty of abundant rain water.

Oct. 25th, 2023: Gloomy yet exhilarating with prominent winds. The waterfall continued to flow but created new shapes due to the presence of the gusts.

Oct. 26th, 2023: Hypnotic beam of sunshine caught my eye during this particular Thursday trek down and around Whaligoe Steps. Getting a bird’s eye view of the off-shore wind farm known as Beatrice.

In the evening I noted the moon, so below you get to see it too.

Oct. 27th, 2023: Such fun was had when nature conspired with a hint of frivolity. Foam parties thanks to the build up of rough seas for several days.

Foam globules littered the lower two flights of Whaligoe Steps and standing beside the boat winch meant being a potential recipient to floating foamy companions! The name ‘foam-nado‘ was circulated on this day…

Oct. 28th, 2023: The autumn can be an unpredictable season, but one thing you can rely on is some rain and a drop in temperature. Silhouettes and wet ground were abundant companions.

Oct. 29th, 2023: Foam parties were the theme to unfold during this Sunday trek. To be honest, I hadn’t witnessed this much foam accumulating on the pebble shore like this on prior visits.

Waves were rife as my friend balanced on a rock only to be greeted by a foamy compliment.

As always, I look forward to sharing the next fortnight all going well.

This first six months have been amazing, full of new-to-me sightings and experiences. If things work out, I look forward to sharing the next six months with you and sharing a whole year of life down and around Whaligoe Steps with you.

The previous episode documenting my Whaligoe Steps 365 challenge can be viewed here – Whaligoe Steps 365 (Part 12) – Whaligoe Eye

Thank you for your continued support and interest, it means a lot. Take care and know I’m sending you positive wishes only always.

FACEBOOK: Whaligoe Eye | Lybster | Facebook

TWITTER (X): Whaligoe Eye (@WhaligoeEye) / X (twitter.com)

TWITTER (X) Gary: Gary (@floodland08) / X (twitter.com)

EMAIL: WhaligoeEyeToo@gmail.com