An Orcadian Idyll

Today we took the ferry from John O'Groats to Orkney.  Whilst the day started  grey, it soon brightened into yet another sunny day. However, the wind was up and it was a touch chilly - perhaps more than a touch.

Orkney was fascinating and surprising for its greenery, it's history, both BC and WWII, and the lack of trees (hurricane force winds are not uncommon - the Orcadians tell of a thriving free range egg industry which ended abruptly in 1952 when the chooks were blown away). The main towns of Kirkwall and Stromness were quaint and the natural harbour of the Scarpa Flow was enormous - enough to hold the British Fleet in WWII.

Michele and Barbara inboard the ferry:

The Orkney island of Hoy is the only steep region:

The islands are dotted with rock walls and small holdings:

Skara Brae shows evidence of civilisation going back to 3000BC:

The standing stones of the Ring of Brodgar (the 3rd largest in the UK):