Shetland Local Landscape Designation Review: Final Report

Landscape Character Unit
20 Ronas Hill and Ronas Voe
Criteria Rank Description
Representativeness
Medium
Less typical of Shetland, and has more in common with some parts of the
Highlands of Scotland. A sense of place as a Shetland landmark.
Rarity Very high The dramatic red granite cliffs, and the high hill behind, are unique in
Shetland. Alpine plant communities occur here at unusually low altitudes.
The red beaches along Ronas Voe are also highly unusual.
Intactness High An intact landscape, but for the presence of fish farms in the Voe, and related
onshore infrastructure and buildings. Some disused croft houses within the
settled area of the Voe.
Scenic qualities Very high Dramatic red granite cliffs rising steeply from the long curving Voe, and
framing the view out to sea, past the striking red beaches.
Enjoyment High Ronas Hill a popular walking location, though few other apparent destinations
within this area.
Cultural qualities Low Limited visible contribution of cultural heritage in this landscape, though
there is a prominent chambered cairn at the summit.
Naturalness Very high Largely, an undisturbed landscape, with alpine plant communities on the high
ground. The cliffs along the Voe have an elemental quality.
Rural pattern Medium The settled parts of the Voe are relatively small, but still largely retain their
crofting pattern.
Views Very high A visible landmark from many areas of the northern and western Mainland
and from some of the islands. Also offers wide views from the summit. Long
seaward views along Ronas Voe.
Unranked criteria
Landscape
consistency
n/a
The hill and the Voe differ in character. The inland part of the Voe is less
dramatic and lacks the strong pink/red colour of the granite.
Landscape n/a To the north of Ronas Hill, the rocky landscape continues into LCU 19.
relationships
Other
designations
n/a
Ronas Hill - North Roe Ramsar site/SPA/SAC