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.)

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 …….