Bernie Bell – Page 128 – The Orkney News

Celebrating Dr John Rae’s Birthday

Over the weekend of 29th/30th September/1st October, The John Rae Society held some birthday celebrations for the man himself.

Head north on coast road, through Wick to John O’Groats, which is lovely in the sunshine.

Then over the bridge to find the beach “covered in egg-shaped stones of many colours”

Walk through woods by falls on River Moriston – summer house and tree like a gnarled sculpture.

we crossed the road to the churchyard, and found a cup and ring carved on the back of a 19th century head-stone there!

Then to Barnluasgan Loch and walk to Bellanoch viewpoint for stunning views of Moine Mhor and surroundings.

Over the hills and far away along forestry tracks – many ‘thrushes anvils’ along the way – reaching Ormaig with view of Loch Craignish beyond.

tiny clay houses , dream catchers and faces in the trees,

It’s a book to start to read – and then proceed, or a ‘honey-pot’ of a book – to dip into for something sweet.

Dunaad, volcanic hill rising out of Moine Mhor bog. Citadel of kings.