Deerness offers an entire spectrum of paddling opportunities. It is almost an island on its own as it is joined to the mainland by only a narrow spit of land. It has many sheltered sandy beaches to launch from and an abundance of cliffs, caves, coves and tide races to keep paddlers interested.
Amongst the highlights of the Deerness area is the Gloup, which was once a deep cave before the roof collapsed, long before living memory, leaving a huge hole inshore which can be accessed from the sea. It is a delight to paddle into and you will possibly have an audience from above snapping photos in disbelief when you appear suddenly far below!
A trip over to the uninhabited island of Copinsay and the Horse of Copinsay is a more advanced trip with a short open tidal crossing but with careful planning this is a fantastic paddle.
The east side has dizzying 210 meter vertical cliffs and thousands of nesting birds, in contrast the west side is less exposed with sand and shingle beaches, easy landing and arable fields.
Care must be taken as the beaches will have thousands of grey seals pupping in late autumn. The island is now a RSPB reserve, but careful visitors are still welcome. A walk up to the lighthouse is highly recommended and includes one of the most terrifying outside toilets you will ever encounter!
