As it was a clear day this morning, we walked back to the light house and up the hill for amazing views of the Orkneys, especially Hoy with the ‘Old Man of Hoy’ stack on its eastern side.
First stop in the van, the Dunnet Bay Gin Distillery for some Rock Rose Navy Strength. Thanks for the recommendation Michelle Mason. The sales woman said it wasn’t possible to try it, but then sneaked us through a door when the shop went quiet and gave us a mini shot – smooth, with the added bonus – it’s strong enough to use as a diesel substitute if all else fails.
Didn’t expect to spend very long in John O Groats but it somehow consumed the whole day. After doing the obligatory signpost photo, we started strolling along the coastal path towards Duncansby Head Lighthouse. Once we reached it, we could see the sea stacks further round. What’s another mile? These rocks were well worth the walk, but by now we were starving.
This was when we took the shortest path back that wasn’t a path, but a sheep track. It quickly disappeared and turned into a bog. Hidden under the heather and long grass was a foot of water in some places. I had a complete sense of humour failure once it came over the top of my boots. I thought I was going to be sucked in, then rediscovered millions of years later – perfectly preserved. When we finally reached the road, there was still another mile to squelch back to the van.
Set about eating the contents of the fridge and then made our way south towards Wick.
Now parked in Keiss, where the local pub/hotel has six motorhome spaces with electric hookup for £10 per night. There’s a harbour and a castle here too, so we put in a final effort before it got dark. Hoping the boots dry out by tomorrow and I don’t get trench foot! 😂
