Bernie Bell (small bear) and Mike go on a road trip

Astounding Stony Stuff

Sunday 30^th 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.

IMage credit B Bell

Image B Bell

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 …….