Bernie Bell (small bear) and Mike go on a road trip
Astounding Stony Stuff
Sunday 30th April – Becomes a fine, sunny day, though windy. Long walk from Carnasserie Castle to the rock art at Ormaig. Pass fine pair of standing stones, which appear to align with a ‘notch’ in hills on other side of the glen.
Smallbear suspects that rays of sun passing between stones might illuminate rock art on slope across – if rocks were cleared of vegetation. This would be a sunrise, possibly a mid-winter sun-rise, to the SE. On the way back, we notice a platform, which would be a perfect vantage point to view this event. (BB – The standing stones, and whole arrangement, make much more of themselves when walking back down the path than when walking up the path.)

Photo B Bell
Over the hills and far away along forestry tracks – many ‘thrushes anvils’ along the way – reaching Ormaig with view of Loch Craignish beyond.
Smallbear successfully negotiates precipitous path to rock carvings (BB – “Where there’s a will, there’s a way” – smallbears may not have much strength but they do have much strength of will).
Mad stuff – rings, cups, ‘rosettes’, and more, including a double rosette, which neither of us had ever seen before.
On the way back, by Carnasserie Castle, encounter 4 young Norwegian archaeologists who are staying in Kilmartin Castle. Bernie promotes Orkneyjar website as good for info on Orkney, as they v. much want to visit/work in Orkney.
Evening meal at Kilmartin Hotel (busy – different staff – not coping so well – cod-loin disappointing – too dry). Couple from S. Ayrshire, Norwegian lassies again – Bernie promotes Orkney Archaeology Society.
Bernie and Mike continue their road trip. Follow the Orkney News to keep apace with them …….
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