nature photography

Seal Viewpoint – Isle of Harris

in , ,
Double rainbow over a winding coastal road near the Seal Viewpoint, Isle of Harris, Outer Hebrides, Scotland

Not far along the winding roads of Harris, we came across a small sign that simply said “Seal Viewpoint.” You’d miss it if you blinked, but pull over and take a moment — and the name makes perfect sense.

Person with binoculars and dog wildlife watching at the Seal Viewpoint on the Isle of Harris, Outer Hebrides, Scotland.
Grey seal resting on seaweed-covered rocks at the Seal Viewpoint, Isle of Harris, Outer Hebrides, Scotland.

Across the rocks and seaweed, a small group of seals were stretched out, completely unbothered by the wind, the waves, or us watching quietly from the roadside. They blend into the landscape until they move — a flick of a tail, a turn of the head — and then you realise how many there are.

It’s a reminder that out here, the wildlife doesn’t perform for you. You have to slow down, watch, and let the place come alive on its own terms. Between the sound of the water and a rainbow breaking across the bay, it turned into one of those unexpectedly perfect stops.

Group of grey seals resting on seaweed-covered rocks at the Seal Viewpoint, Isle of Harris, Outer Hebrides, Scotland

Sometimes the best parts of a trip aren’t planned — they’re the small pauses where nature does its thing, and you’re lucky enough to be there for it.

See more island wildlife and coastal moments in my Places and People collections.

Arbirlot Walks – Fields, Waterfalls and Woodland

in ,
Seagulls take flight across a football pitch in Arbroath.
Woman exploring Arbirlot waterfall near Arbroath.
Dog standing in the river below Arbirlot waterfall.
Green barley field beneath a clear blue summer sky.
Dog running on a woodland path near Arbirlot, Scotland.

A short walk through Arbirlot, just outside Arbroath, takes you from open fields into shaded woodland and down to the small waterfall under the old stone bridge. It’s a quiet spot, ideal for a wander with the dog or simply enjoying the scenery. The mix of farmland, riverside paths and that hidden cascade makes it a favourite place for locals to explore.

The waterfall itself, tucked beneath the bridge, is the highlight. Whether standing above it or cooling off below, it’s a reminder of how much variety you can find within a short distance of town.

Exploring places like Arbirlot shows just how much variety is on offer in this part of Scotland. From open coastlines to tucked-away woodland, I’m always drawn to the mix of landscapes nearby. You can see more of my work across Places and People.