Scottish Islands Explorer

Hot Desking on Lewis

2012-03-04T00:00:00.000-08:00

An old Harris Tweed Mill on Seaforth Road in Stornoway will be opening as a Media Centre later this month. On the ground floor will be the headquarters and studio of MG Alba, operators of the Gaelic digital channel, BBC Alba. On the first floor there will be seven office units and 32 hot-desks. This is an exciting development that gives opportunities for small companies and individuals to be creative and inter-active. What would the 'former residents' of Lewis, depicted below, have made of such moves?

Scottish Islands Explorer - ready for new opportunities

Benefits All Round

2012-03-03T00:00:00.000-08:00

An Edinburgh-based company, Aquamarine Power, makes these Oyster devices in a factory in Fife and looks forward to installing up to 50 of them off Lewis. They have been tested off Orkney. These electricity generators are, perhaps, the shape of things to come and their size is shown below in comparison to the work-force that generates them.

Scottish Islands Explorer - tries to generate interest

Elves and Earthquakes

2012-03-02T00:00:00.000-08:00

This bright red fungi, Scarlet Elf Cap, was spotted and photographed in woods on Islay by David Clugston. It's only the second time that the variety has been recorded on the whole of the Hebrides. This was reported by the Islay Natural History Trust on 28 February. A day later, on the 29th, the earth itself moved on parts of the island, was recorded on the Richter Scale at a Northern Ireland seismological station and is reported on the Trust's blog.

Scottish Island Explorer - reports and records

Methuselina

2012-03-01T00:00:00.000-08:00

Living on Lewis can lead to longevity as this life and death story of Methuselina indicates. Listen to the account by her owner John Maciver and sense something remarkable.

Scottish Islands Explorer - hoping to emulate her.

Landscape Textures

2012-02-29T00:00:00.000-08:00

The landscapes of Scotland and its islands have textures that are both remarkable and captured by photographer, Simon Nicholas White (below). A trip to his Gallery will show you what's on offer, but not always detected by the human eye, at surface level. His camera lens has a way of exposing matter.

Scottish Islands Explorer - also tries to expose surface details.

Speaking Apart

2012-02-28T00:00:00.000-08:00

The Old Man of Hoy (above) is not given to words, but were he, then undoubtedly there would be differences in his speech patterns. For where people lead lives with a degree of separation from the mainstream, then dialect quickly becomes apparent. This is explored by Tom Rendall in a series of lectures that he is giving on Orkney.

It has been pointed out that the photograph below - originally used to illustrate this item - is not the Old Man of Hoy. Can anyone identify the location of this stack, please?

Scottish Islands Explorer - cherishes differences

Zoom onto Bass

2012-02-27T00:00:00.000-08:00

A visit to the Bass Rock is not always possible for, although relatively close to the shore, it is not straightforward to reach. However, 24/7 access is possible through the webcams situated there and presented by the Scottish Seabird Centre in North Berwick, Take a trip, now.

Scottish Islands Explorer - getting around, effortlessly

That Ultimate Beach

2012-02-26T00:00:00.000-08:00

There can be few beaches in the UK with the appeal of Luskentyre on South Harris. Its sea, sand and setting are captured here by Craig Aitchison whose book - The Highlands - Light and Land - is due out later in the Spring.

Scottish Islands Explorer - capturing island images

Observe the Law

2012-02-25T00:00:00.000-08:00

The work of Frances Law will be on show, in an exhibition entitled Beyond Appearance at the Park Gallery, Callendar House, Callendar Park, Falkirk from Saturday 3 - Tuesday 20 March. The details are to be found here.

Scottish Islands Explorer - also tries to get beyond appearances.

Pumping Prime Numbers

2012-02-24T00:00:00.000-08:00

This petrol pump, on Coll, does not have the same appeal as the one at Voe on Shetland. Here there is to be a special promotion involving the lowering of prices on days chosen by lottery. The paradox of high fuel prices in places where crude oil comes ashore is being countered.

Scottish Islands Explorer - has risen in price by some 28% in the last 12 years

The Lewis Man

2012-02-23T00:00:00.000-08:00

Clicking on this cover may not be effective, but try acquiring Peter May's The Lewis Man - the sequel to his The Blackhouse. It has won acclaim as a novel vividly conveying the authentic atmosphere and condition of island people, places and powerful forces. It was published last month and will become the middle book in a triology. Click here, however, for an effective, vivid trailer.

Scottish Islands Explorer - looking at facts; keen on fiction

Surf into Spring

2012-02-22T00:00:00.000-08:00

Get ahead of the seasons by taking the season's first surf sessions on Lewis this coming Saturday, 25 February. If you are keen on participation go to SurfLewis, if you are content with observation, just look below and wonder.

Scottish Islands Explorer - ready for Spring and actions therein.

Trees on Their Way

2012-02-21T00:00:00.000-08:00

Rowan or mountain ash, together with sycamore, birch, pine and spruce, will be appearing shortly on ... South Uist. Oxfam is among the groups providing the funding for 20,000 saplings to be planted on this island, better known for its machair, marram and mountains. The name rowan comes from the proto-Germanic word raudnian meaning 'getting red' which, of course, refers to its foliage and berries of Autumn. The Old Norse shortened it to raun, while the Gaelic linguistic tradition developed it as caorann or rudha-an, with the latter pronounced as the English rowan.

Scottish Islands Explorer - obviously has a vested interest in trees

Lise on Tour

2012-02-20T00:00:00.000-08:00

The work of George Mackay Brown(above) has inspired Fair Isle artiste and poet, Lise Sinclair (below), to take her work and band places. Next month's tour will be from Fair Isle to Lerwick, and then on to Edinburgh before ending in Reykjavik, Iceland. Its journey reflects the blend and traditions of Scottish and Nordic cultures as they are still lived today.

Scottish Islands Explorer - on shelves wherever Scottish interests are found

Not the Shetland Bus

2012-02-19T00:00:00.000-08:00

The Kyle of Durness and the moors of The Parph separate Cape Wrath from the mainland. It's now getting on for 50 years since a summer-only bus service started operating along the service road from the ferry to the lighthouse. It passes close to Keodale and the basic accommodation provided there by the Mountain Bothies Association. Thanks to Hugh Powell and Richard Evans for this image and account of the beginning of the facility for those wanting an understandably easier way of getting to the north-westerly corner of Scotland. 'Wrath' does not refer to the frequent weather with an angry element, but is derived from the Norse word - hraf - the turning point.

Scottish Islands Explorer - makes journeys easier

Dive Bomber

2012-02-18T00:00:00.000-08:00

If you have every been dived-bombed by a bonxie, then this image of an Arctic skua could spoil your Saturday morning. It was taken by Andrew Pennill while crossing from Lerwick to The Noss National Nature Reserve. When walking in those parts, have a hat ready, a stick at hand ... and hope for the beast ... to avoid you!

Scottish Islands Explorer - encourages people to keep their heads down, by reading

A Tale to be Finished

2012-02-17T00:00:00.000-08:00

This story recounted in the blog Across the Minch is one that requires completion. Does anyone out there know what happened to the people involved? Thank you for looking.

Scottish Islands Explorer - searching and researching

Interview with Editor

2012-02-16T00:00:00.001-08:00

Yesterday saw the delivery of the latest copy of Scottish Islands Explorer to most subscribers and tomorrow should see it on the shelves of shops throughout Scotland and the far north of England. Today the Editor was interviewed by Private Island News about his views on a number of island matters.

Scottish Islands Explorer - read somewhere by someone every day

Virtual Dwelling

2012-02-15T00:00:00.000-08:00

The fascination that many of us have for St Kilda is certainly shared by Alice Watterson. Her account and blog give details of a remarkable piece of research culminating in the virtual re-creation of a blackhouse. The last surviving islander is still alive to relish how technology brings the past to life.

Scottish Islands Explorer - makes virtual exploring possible

Work and Play

2012-02-14T00:00:00.000-08:00

Even when jobs are scarce, work is available if you know where to find or create it. The authorities on Shetland have devised a highly-informative website to assist those who have concepts about employment for themselves and for others in this Northern Isle. Lerwick (below) is one of the many places in the island group where facilities for play are easily-accessible.

Scottish Islands Explorer - a publication about pleasures that has generated work

Ultimate Unst

2012-02-13T00:00:00.000-08:00

Here is another photograph by the late Adrian Warren (go back to the Queen of the Isles on 5 February) and it features that end-of-the-country look. Another image, below, has that end-of-existence look, created by a tin hut at Haroldswick, the largest settlement on Unst, at the top end of Shetland. It is featured in Northings - a site that attracts. If you would like a tour of the north end of this island then look no further than here.

Scottish Islands Explorer - the ultimate read

The Inaccessible Pinnacle

2012-02-12T00:00:00.000-08:00

This scene from Seachd, a Gaelic feature film, considers The Inaccessible Pinnacle. In another context this could refer to the linguistic heights that the Gaelic language has to scale in order to return to its original strength with a range of both dialects and speakers of them.

Scottish Islands Explorer - accessible on the shelf as well as on subscription

Going ... Going ... Gone

2012-02-11T00:00:00.000-08:00

There are concerns about the Mallaig - Armadale ferry service across the Sound of Sleat. A public meeting is to be held to discuss the threat of downgrading the importance of this crossing. The A830 road to Fort William may have been upgraded, but it would be only part of the long haul to the Skye Bridge. The West Highland Free Press carries the story.

Scottish Islands Explorer - saves quite a distance in island journeys

From Holm to Whole World

2012-02-10T00:00:00.000-08:00

It may be almost six months since this item appeared about Little Green Holm, but it's worth reading and then looking at its source, Vladi Private Islands News. There are insights here into islands throughout the world.

Scottish Islands Explorer - confined to UK coastal waters

Work or Play?

2012-02-09T00:00:00.000-08:00

There is a good choice available when visiting Sanda, Scotland's most extreme south-west island that's half-way to Northern Ireland. There's a day-trip, a menu of fine meals, various luxuriously-appointed bedrooms ... and work available. Find out more about the 25 March - 2 September 2012 season or the two jobs on offer.

Scottish Island Explorer - offering just a good read

Giving Out The Line

2012-02-08T00:00:00.000-08:00

The unaccompanied singing of the Gaelic Psalms is a musical experience to be savoured. The lead is given by a male precentor, a presenter adept at 'giving out the line', in Presbyterian churches throughout the Hebrides as well as in the Highlands. Those not within reach and wanting to hear, should access Ridge Records and click on their audio buttons. The presenter's lead is indicated by the primary line and the congregation follows with the psalmic litany.

Scottish Islands Explorer - presents songs of praise about the islands

Hey Bristow!

2012-02-07T00:00:00.000-08:00

There are changes coming in the areas of Search and Rescue. Bristow Helicopters will soon be taking over operations, in Stornoway and Sumburgh, from CHC. The involvement of RAF and Royal Navy helicopters will be phased out after 2016. The lie of the land and the waters around the Western and Northern Isles are not places in which to engage in escapades.

Scottish Islands Explorer - how to venture beyond, without leaving home

The Bus Comes First

2012-02-06T00:00:00.001-08:00

The Shetland Times has issued a list of its best-selling books. At the top of this literary league-table comes The Shetland Bus by the late David Howarth. It describes the war-time service between Shetland and Norway and has been in print for 60 years. The photograph above is of a restored vessel involved in these operations and now in the harbour at Scalloway, while the one below shows a comparable craft in the North Sea during those now distant years.

Scottish Islands Explorer - at 12 years old, it is one-fifth the age of the 'Bus'

The Queen of the Isles

2012-02-05T00:00:00.002-08:00

Westray, which enjoys the regal title of 'The Queen of the Isles', is the second largest of the North Isles of Orkney. This aerial photograph of Pierowall, where the ferry departs for nearby Papa Westray, was taken by the late Adrian Warren. He died on 5 June 2011, aged 61, and some of his work and achievements are commemorated on the website of Last Refuge Ltd, his small company dedicated to the support of endangered environments and species through films, images and research. It also specialises in aerial photography and filming.

Scottish Islands Explorer - not, as yet, by royal appointment

Forty Years On

2012-02-04T00:00:00.001-08:00

Robin Hardy was directing The Wicker Man (1973) on location some 40 years ago. Now, at the age of 82, he looks forward to making another film with the working title of The Wrath of the Gods. It will feature Norse mythology and be set on Shetland. The scenes for the earlier film, though featuring the fictitious Hebridean island of Summerisle, were shot very much on the mainland - mainly in Dumfries and Galloway, with some of Culzean Castle in Ayrshire and Plockton, Ross-shire. The opening sequences were of Skye and, in particular, Quiraing and The Old Man of Storr. Read about the new project for this veteran director, an Older Man on Shetland.

Scottish Islands Explorer - looking forward to its fortieth

Fuel for Thought

2012-02-03T00:00:00.000-08:00

We are back on Jura, with this photo of a (perhaps 'the'?) petrol pump, at Craighouse. Costs are obviously higher on islands than on the mainland and some details of the differences are available on the BBC. So if you are having to make that ultimate 'reluctant purchase' today by filling up the tank, be grateful, if you live in Inverness or somewhere having comparable prices.

Scottish Islands Explorer - for the price of a couple of litres

Green and Pleasant

2012-02-02T00:00:00.000-08:00

Sailing the shorter routes on the Clyde and Hebridean waters will, in the future, have a different sensation. Hybrid vessels will be bringing eco-economies to the operation. The hills of Skye and Raasay will be the background to the first of this new member of the fleet. Read the business item on the BBC website.

Scottish Islands Explorer - seeks savings where needed

A Frequent, Far Ferry

2012-02-01T00:00:00.000-08:00

Diurachs - the Gaelic for the inhabitants of the Isle of Jura - have no direct link by vehicular ferry to the mainland. Their first, or on the return leg, final step must involve crossing the one kilometre of water from Feolin to Port Askaig on Islay. In bad weather the service can be prone to cancellation. However, its frequency, at approximately 30 minute intervals from 7.30 - 18.30, is high for the outlying Scottish islands. There are on the island around 200 residents, about 5000 deer, but only one designer of the magazine, Scottish Islands Explorer. Broadband links allow the swift transmission of the finished pages to its printer in Hastings. Now that's a real north-west / south-east crossing. Think of how slow all aspects of life were back in the 1740s, the time that the print (below) of the Feolin Ferry was created.

Scottish Islands Explorer - designed by a Diurach

Once in Walking Distance

2012-01-31T00:00:00.000-08:00

Here are the Monach Islands (or Heskeir) as seen from Balranald. The individual islands are connected at low tide and, until the 15th Century, could be accessed on foot from Baleshare, five miles away on North Uist. Occupation ceased in 1942, but a new lighthouse has been constructed, the old schoolhouse restored for accommodation and the white beaches, together with the most exposed dune system in the UK, are inviting. Take a look below at the ruined settlement as well as the attractive situation.

Scottish Islands Explorer - tries to create the wish-you-were-here feeling

What's in Store?

2012-01-30T00:00:00.000-08:00

Here's a well-known stopping point for travellers on Skye and to the Western Isles. It's the Co-operative in Portree. However, there may soon be more on offer - by way of supermarkets themselves. The West Highland Free Press reveals how planning applications have been submitted by both the Co-op and Tesco. Trolleys galore are forecast.

Scottish Islands Explorer - remains something of a monopoly

Half-hour at Rodel

2012-01-29T00:00:00.000-08:00

There's been much attention paid to the northern skies recently and this image of Rodel, captured by Andrew Pennill, shows why. A trail of stars photographed over 30 minutes creates an appropriate heavenly background to the famous church on Harris.

Scottish Islands Explorer - attempts to lighten the darkness

They Came, Saw and ...

2012-01-28T00:00:00.001-08:00

These Norse settlements on Rousay look substantial enough. When the Vikings invaded Orkney, as well as other parts of Britain, there was, apparently, mayhem followed by a constructive phase. A new book, From Machair to Mountains, emphasises this intermixing feature. Oxbow Books may be a useful source for this publication.

Scottish Islands Explorer - pleased to report how things settled down

Sitting by the Shore

2012-01-27T00:00:00.000-08:00

The makers of this chair are Orkney born and bred. There is a traditional and flourishing industry on the island. Read about Scapa Crafts and the involvement of husband and wife, Jackie and Marlene Miller, together with their team. Sit comfortably ... and enjoy.

Scottish Islands Explorer - to be read, preferably when seated

Gloss on Egg

2012-01-26T00:00:00.000-08:00

The Scottish Wildlife Trust reports: A group of rare wetland birds has been spotted on the isle of Eigg. Six glossy ibis (Plegadis falcinellus) have been seen. The glossy ibis (copyright photograph above by Alex Boden) is defined as a scarce visitor to the UK, but this winter has seen sporadic sightings in the North West and South West of England and South Wales.

The glossy ibis is a wader bird that feeds in very shallow water. The ibis nests in fresh water among reeds or rushes in areas with low trees and bushes. The isle of Eigg is a Scottish Wildlife Trust reserve. It is famous for its community buyout in 1997 and the rich amount of wildlife.

Commenting, John Chester, the Scottish Wildlife Trust’s Ranger on the isle of Eigg said: “Ibises are a very noteworthy species within the UK & especially here in west Scotland. As a first record for the island they have generated a lot of interest amongst the local people many of whom have been able to see the birds.

“We’re not sure as yet where these birds originated from, though it seems that it could be Spain or France. However, as one of them is ringed we’ll hopefully be able to obtain more information on this. Why exactly they have turned up on Eigg, especially in such a wild and wet winter, is a real mystery but they certainly seem to be having no trouble finding food in the heavily flooded marshes. Hopefully they’ll continue to hang around for a while and are enjoying the Hebridean winter.”

Scottish Islands Explorer - gloss and matt finish

Independence Issues

2012-01-25T00:00:00.000-08:00

These offices of the Shetland Council could take on a new significance if the proposals of the Earl of Caithness come about. The same would apply to the Council Offices in Kirkwall (below) and ... to the administrative centre of Rockall, Hall's Ledge!

Scottish Islands Explorer - sometimes going to extremes

Looking Out for Lights

2012-01-24T00:00:00.000-08:00

The artificial lights are of Scalloway - until 1708 the capital of the Shetland group of islands - and the natural ones are the Northern Lights. This photograph by Chris Brown is featured on the website of Bairds Travel. Another series of views is to be found on the BBC website. Take a couple of trips ... moving away from your screen.

Scottish Islands Explorer - always trying to look up

Hey, Hey, Clear the Way

2012-01-23T00:00:00.000-08:00

This photo of the derelict North Strome Ferry Terminal, taken by Neil King, shows the Strome Narrows of Loch Carron crossed by ferry until 1970. Then a new section of the A890 was built in order to give faster access to the Kyle of Lochalsh, Skye and beyond. Now plans are being considered to construct a bridge or create a new by-pass. Another scheme, many miles away, involves the by-passing of Thurso to speed access to Scrabster and the Northern Isles. The details are on the BBC website. Getting out to the islands may become that little easier.

Scottish Islands Explorer - creates passages about the islands

An Arcadian Vision

2012-01-22T00:00:00.000-08:00

Waves contain forceful energies and these are due to be harnessed off Mainland Orkney. The Costa Head Wave Project will be the world's largest of its type. The resources are unlimited and derived off-shore, leaving the land unaffected.. So here is a case, perhaps, of the Arcadian - natural, bountiful splendour in a largely untouched wilderness - within an Orcadian setting.

Scottish Islands Explorer - pages depicting powerful forces

The Ben Ken Run and More

2012-01-21T00:00:00.000-08:00

Here's an ultimate race that has climbed high in the ratings. Take a look at the news item and then at the race history and work out whether you want to pencil into your diary the first Saturday in August. Just remember, when you are suffering on the ascent or in the water, where you first read about it.

Scottish Islands Explorer - tries to be on top

Skye Sheep Site

2012-01-20T00:51:00.001-08:00

There are more where these creatures came from. Take a look at this illustrated sequence of sheep on Skye, taken and supplied by Andrew and Rosie Woodhouse. It's a feast of photographs for a Friday.

Scottish Islands Explorer - read by humans, occasionally devoured by sheep

New for Auld

2012-01-19T00:00:00.000-08:00

Here is the Auld Haa Guest House on Fair Isle. The 'Haa' on Shetland traditionally refers to the house of a laird and so it would customarily have had innovations incorporated within its construction. Perhaps the old / auld ways persist on some remoter islands and glens, but BT has counted almost a third of a million wi-fi hotspots in Scotland. The Highlands have some 26,700 and the Western Isles 2,370. This accommodation on an island famed for its birds certainly has its wireless internet connections.

Scottish Islands Explorer - keen to connect, particularly as it started on Fair Isle.

The Fuel Good Factor

2012-01-18T20:40:00.000-08:00

Islanders always need fuel to get places. The price differences with the mainland have traditionally attracted the attention of visiting motorists and the concerns of residents. A new Government initiative for the Northern Isles, Outer and Inner Hebrides, Clyde islands and the Isles of Scilly has attracted some recent attention as the 5p per litre rebate due on 1 March has, according to some, already be nullified by the raising of prices in anticipation. Read on with relief, if you are not having to purchase the liquid. The appropriate image above is not directly applicable, as it features Achill, off the western coast of Ireland. Thank you for your good-will messages as I now feel relief at having returned from a 48-hour stay in hospital, following a condition that required emergency treatment on Monday.

Scottish Islands Explorer - relieved to continue reporting

Run Aground

2012-01-17T09:00:00.000-08:00

John is currently in hospital but will be shipshape once running repairs have been made. Please stay posted for further details.

Now for One over the Eight

2012-01-16T00:00:00.000-08:00

If you are in the Christian Presbyterian tradition, then living in or visiting Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis, must offer a challenge - which of its churches to attend? The Church of Scotland traces its origins as a sect to 1560 and has two places of worship in the town. The Free Church of Scotland (1843) has two; the Free Church of Scotland (Continuing) (2000) has one; the Free Presbyterian Church of Scotland (1892) has one; the Associated Presbyterian Church (1989) has one. Now there's a newcomer with a congregation of the Reformed Presbyterian Church of Scotland (1690) setting up in the Culregrein Mission Hall (pictured above) on the Perceval Road. Its presence is probably connected with a doctrinal issue that is troubling some members of the Free Church - namely the approval by its own General Assembly of having psalm-singing accompanied by music and the introduction of hymns, if individual congregations wish. The FC congregations in Stornoway are, apparently, not interested in adopting live music, but the RFC has set up ... just in case. Will there soon be another comparable sect entering the Stornoway scene and there being one over the eight?

Scottish Islands Explorer - avoiding schisms ... as yet

An Island Parish

2012-01-15T00:00:00.000-08:00

The approach to Barra is always exciting - for Castlebay looks, from a distance, like a miniature city. The current BBC series, An Island Parish, gives insights into the ways of life of a priest and his parishioners. It is possible to catch up on the series through iPlayer.

Scottish Islands Explorer - time to catch up with the now 250 items on this blog

A Divided Kingdom?

2012-01-14T00:00:00.000-08:00

This letter appeared in yesterday's issue of The Times and raises a significant question about a consequence of a 'Divided Kingdom'. Sir, What will become of Rockall if Scotland goes its own way? It is part of the United Kingdom (not specifically Scotland), indeed the only bit acquired since the 1707 Act of Union. Who will own it if the UK ceases to exist? As the cormorant flies, it is nearer to the Republic of Ireland than it is to any non-Scottish part of the UK. The seas around it are of immense importance in respect of international maritime security, natural resources and conservation. The Rev Peter Ridley Appleby-in-Westmorland, Cumbria

Scottish Islands Explorer - change of content is unlikely

An Ancient of Days

2012-01-13T00:00:00.000-08:00

Archaeologists have been busy in the Western Isles and unearthed some exciting settlements south of Lochboisdale on South Uist, at Loch Euphort in the isolated centre of North Uist and at Loch an Duna between Barvas and Carloway in the north of Lewis. Among their methods of research was to ask local people about the whereabouts of possible findings. It does make such a resident sound like an 'ancient of days'. The image above is of an abandoned settlement on Harris and makes one wonder why anyone left a place that looks particularly idyllic.

Scottish Islands Explorer - always asking for local knowledge

It's an Ill Wind

2012-01-12T00:00:00.000-08:00

It is certainly an ill wind that blows nobody any good. The refurbishment of, and disruptions to, the NorthLink ferry from Aberdeen to Shetland means that Flybe and Loganair will be increasing their services in February and March. Talking of increasing trade, yesterday this blog clocked up its 12000th visit during its eight-month existence.

Scottish Islands Explorer - looks forward to increasing its services

Going for a Skye Boat

2012-01-11T00:00:00.000-08:00

This young man understandably looks bemused by this contradictory road-sign, but local school-children and select motorists will feel relieved that their journey time may be reduced under the unexpected conditions prevailing so far this year. See how a Skye Boat is, perhaps, going to continue giving fine service in its eighth decade.

Scottish Islands Explorer - always dependent on ferries

Lighting Counts Again

2012-01-10T00:00:00.000-08:00

Light has featured on this blog for the past two days. On Sunday, it was definitely Winter; yesterday's item had a Summer feel; today's image is an Autumn one of distant Mull from Jura. It was taken by Iain Thornber who, among many residents of the West Coast, looks forward to the coming of Spring when the dark, cold and wet days of the past few weeks are over.

Scottish Islands Explorer - trying to lighten dark moments

Land & Light

2012-01-09T00:00:00.000-08:00

Here is a treat in store - when published on 31 May 2012. Scottish landscape photographer, Craig Aitchison, has brought together over one hundred images that he has taken of the well-known and seldom-visited, the accessible and remote, the ancient and modern parts of the Highlands & Islands. The Highlands - Land & Light is a portfolio of panoramic photographs each with a fresh perspective. This publication by Frances Lincoln already has a listing on Amazon. Yesterday's blog considered light on Lewis; now look at the light and colours on the Mainland, above, and, below, at the southern end of the Western Isles captured by Craig Aitchison from the hill above Castlebay on Barra.

Scottish Islands Explorer - keen to capture colour

The Best of Light

2012-01-08T00:00:00.000-08:00

There is something about the light at Loch Aline, situated close to the back office of Scottish Islands Explorer at Kershader in the South Lochs. The image above was taken by Edward Graham at 13.00 on 19 December 2011. Then an image of the Pairc from Loch Aline appeared on computer screens during the afternoon of Saturday 7 January 2012 courtesy of Across the Minch. It is remarkable how scenes seldom seen by people in the past can now appear around the world in an instant, observed by many.

Scottish Islands Explorer - endeavours to provide good, light reading

Cars on Rails

2012-01-07T00:00:00.000-08:00

The landslip on the Lochcarron to Kyle of Lochalsh road, on 22 December 2011, has meant quite a detour for those wanting to cross over to Skye and on to Uig for the Tarbert / Lochmaddy ferries. The solution of allowing vehicles onto the railway is both innovative as well as potential time- and distance-saving. Read more on the BBC site.

Scottish Islands Explorer - always considering short-cuts

Island Incentives

2012-01-06T00:00:00.000-08:00

Here are four attractive features. A Highland Councillor has proposed that everyone in Scotland should be given the opportunity of having a free trip to its islands. If this were to occur, think how many would enjoy such scenes as this evening view of Luskentyre beach, photographed by Andrew Pennill. Enthusiasms for photography often needs professional encouragement and Andrew's Winter Newsletter 2012 does supply details relevant to camera-users everywhere. Incidentally, today is the final day on which to make an application for employment on the Summer Isles later this year.

Scottish Islands Explorer - pointing people in the right directions

Discovery Made Easy

2012-01-05T00:00:00.000-08:00

There are many ways of getting around Scotland and exploring its islands. The dramatic photograph of Muckle Flugga (above) indicates why people are attracted to the place in all sorts of ways, including trying to reach it physically (below). A more simple approach to exploration is to go straight to the website Undiscovered Scotland and to let your mouse loose on the maps. The wealth of information and images is impressive.

Scottish Islands Explorer - determined to discover

Wind Up

2012-01-04T00:00:00.000-08:00

This view from the Eishken Estate across Loch Seaforth to the hills of North Harris is close to the proposed Muaitheabhal Wind Farm. The original planning application was for 133 turbines, but 33 were granted. Now this has been increased by a further six. It's difficult to picture more inaccessible countryside and to imagine how construction and maintenance will take place in one of the remoter parts of the UK. The workers will feel like early settlers.

Scottish Islands Explorer - a comparatively minor source of power

Life on a Small Island

2012-01-03T00:00:00.000-08:00

Graemsay looks empty from this angle depicting the Point of Oxan. However, there are around 27 people living on this Orkney island on the western approaches to Scapa Flow, including Sian, who produces a lively blog called Life on a Small Island. Her entry last Wednesday serves as an interesting introduction.

Scottish Islands Explorer - would like to be considered as 'versatile'

Rum Watching Required

2012-01-02T00:00:00.000-08:00

Kinloch Castle on Rum is a monument to the ways in which families sometimes have an urge to create something 'remarkable, impressive and permanent' - an architectural RIP. The 19th Century dream of the Bullough family becomes something of a nightmare for succeeding generations when it comes to maintenance, restoration and preservation. SNH - Scottish Natural Heritage - has that unenviable task, but it is their responsibility and they need both support and watching. Within the Castle there is a hostel and the SNH has recently applied to build a new, temporary hostel while the original is being repaired. We hope that the word 'temporary' is heeded - for the priority is to preserve the permanent, not to replace it.

Scottish Islands Explorer - presenting places of permanent appeal

New Era; New Pleasures

2012-01-01T00:00:00.000-08:00

When you like football and live on Raasay, the minimum one-a-side matches can have maximum appeal. If you like exploring places, then here's a blog that will keep you stimulated. It's Straight from the Den and its photographs are so impressive. The 'Fitba' one (above) has that compelling sensation, while 'The Old Lazybeds at Loch Crabhadail, Huisinis' (below) reveals a sight seldom seen. A happy time lies ahead here for blog-rollers.

Scottish Islands Explorer - launched 13 years ago today

Brains, Scales and Scams

2011-12-31T00:00:00.000-08:00

The BBC has recently presented two stories concerning fish. One involves a Shetland company manipulating its scales in order to create what has apparently turned out to be a £47.5 million pound scam involving catches. However, this company and several fishermen were caught out ... by the authorities. Then a marine survey has produced some remarkable findings from 220 square miles off the the Scottish coast. Around the Small Isles, over 100 marine specimens were identified and off Tankerness, Orkney, the rare prehistoric amphioxus was found. This fish, pictured above, lacks both a brain and a face. Could the two BBC stories be connected?

Scottish Islands Explorer - sometimes establishing links

Time To Test Tidal

2011-12-30T00:00:00.000-08:00

The sub-structure of the HS (Hammerfest Strom) 1000 tidal turbine was constructed in the Arnish Yard , Stornoway; is about to be tested off the Orkney coast; and is a device that will be part of the forthcoming Islay Sound project. Out of sight, out-of-mind, but capable of powering 500 homes.

Scottish Islands Explorer - subject more to times than to tides

Way Off Course

2011-12-29T00:00:00.000-08:00

Two Kemp's ridley sea turtles have been found washed up on Britain's shores. One was at Llannon in west Wales; the other was early this month on the Isle of Tiree. They are members of an endangered species and require special handling whether dead or alive. The Marine Conservation Society is keen to see that stranded creatures are carefully prepared for return to the waters or be given a suitable post-mortem.

Scottish Islands Explorer - aware of what has come ashore

On Top, On Top

2011-12-28T00:00:00.000-08:00

Sufficient residents of Shetland, at the top end of the UK, have indicated that they are happy with their lot. This year's Bank of Scotland survey has placed them on top of a table measuring what is presented as 'quality of life'. They may be short of daylight at his time of year and an average of three hours of sunshine per week, but this has not deterred them.

Scottish Islands Explorer - considered, by some readers, to be a top publication

Caroline at Coastcard

2011-12-27T00:00:00.000-08:00

This image of a bird flying over Bass Rock was taken by Suffolk photographer, Caroline Gill, and is part of a collection that deserves full attention. Have a read of her travels to the Scottish islands and the ways in which she presents her subjects. You will not be disappointed.

Scottish Islands Explorer - keen to take a bird's eye view

Birds En Masse

2011-12-26T00:00:00.000-08:00

This feral Canada Goose has its eye on us and the film-maker of a seven minute YouTube clip certainly had his lens focused on a large flock of the geese descending on Islay. Sit back and enjoy, especially after traditional fare of the season.

Scottish Islands Explorer - attracts birds of a feather

Wait For It

2011-12-25T00:00:00.000-08:00

The residents of Foula, the most remote island in the Shetland group, have since 1752 traditionally adhered to the Julian Calendar when it comes to Christmas Day and New Year's Day. Foula also adhered to the older calendar by keeping 1800 as a leap year, but did not observe a leap year in 1900. As a result, the island is now one day ahead of the Julian calendar and twelve days behind the Gregorian, observing Christmas Day on January 6 Gregorian and New Year on January 13 Gregorian. At one time the Foula Post Office made a token opening for business on Christmas Day morning. A similar resistance to the date change brought in 260 years ago is shown by the 200 or so residents of the Gwaun Valley in West Wales.

Scottish Islands Explorer - changing with the times

It's a Four-Letter Word

2011-12-24T00:00:00.000-08:00

This image of the Paps of Jura does have an austere feel, with Islay appearing through the clouds across the Sound. Yet the name of Jura has a wide appeal - not just for whisky connoisseurs, but for those who like a particular make of coffee machine, a brand of watch and a European range of mountains. Which one for a Christmas present?

Scottish Islands Explorer - still available as a Christmas gift

More Claymore?

2011-12-23T00:00:00.000-08:00

There has been a new Ferry Review published by the Scottish Government. The popular petition for the establishment of a Mallaig to Lochboisdale crossing has not been dismissed, but, as yet, there is no plan to implement it. Support will continue to be sought. A report in the West Highland Free Press suggests that Pentland Ferries with its now spare, former CalMac vessel, the MV Claymore, may be interested. Now that the Fort William - Mallaig road has been upgraded, this new ferry route does appeal.

Scottish Islands Explorer - looking for new avenues

Where's Jimmy?

2011-12-22T00:00:00.000-08:00

Names come and go - in the Northern Isles as well as anywhere. The range available on Shetland takes in those of Scandinavian origin, but a look at the island group's popular names for babies in 2011 indicates that there are many different strands that appeal to parents. The letter accompanying the item shows how deep the resources are when it comes to choice.

Scottish Islands Explorer - has remained the same name for 13 years

Join the Elite

2011-12-21T00:00:00.000-08:00

Here, in the winter sun, is Maeshowe on Orkney. It was built in Neolithic times and was intended, perhaps, as accommodation for the socially elite in a prehistoric tribe. One of its attributes, enjoyed to this day, is the alignment of the sun on the Winter Solstice. Go there today, with its shortest hours of light, via the three webcams that bring images to all parts of the world, wherever there is an internet connection.

Scottish Islands Explorer - keen to illuminate

Flying the Flag

2011-12-20T00:00:00.000-08:00

A couple of days ago the Scottish flag apparently featured in the skies above Bavaria. This image was sent to the blog by a German national who wonders what has happened. Any thoughts on the matter by our readers?

Scottish Islands Explorer - sells in Germany, but not yet in sky-high quantities

More than Explorers

2011-12-19T00:00:00.000-08:00

The Ravenspoint Centre at Kershader in the South Lochs of the Isle of Lewis has expanded recently and supplies retail, restaurant, archive and hostelling needs to the community and visitors. It also houses the back office of Scottish Islands Explorer magazine. Now it is increasing its services and certain lines are proving particularly popular. Will a fuel supply be added, saving a 30-mile round-trip to fill-up the tank?

Scottish Islands Explorer - has a good home

Need Advice?

2011-12-18T01:16:00.000-08:00

At sometime in 2012, if you need to contact Citizens Advice direct from your home you could well be put through to Stornoway. This organisation will soon be recruiting 41 individuals to work at a local contact centre. Read all about it.

Scottish Islands Explorer - insular advice supplied

Beyond the Noup

2011-12-17T00:00:00.000-08:00

There are Foula watchers, everywhere. The loneliest Scottish island with a permanent civilian population always attracts attention. So do the YouTube clips that are readily available. Get behind the Noup and see the lie of the land, the housing stock and its residents going about their business.

Scottish Islands Explorer - a vested interest in the faraway

Brochs, Duns & W'houses

2011-12-16T00:00:00.000-08:00

Dun Carloway is certainly the best-known broch on the Isle of Lewis. Go some miles to the west and discover the Valtos Peninsula, on the way to Uig. Here there has been some exciting archaeological work on brochs, duns and wheelhouses. The landscape is appealing, the scenery is grand and what's beneath the surface is stimulating.

Scottish Islands Explorer - digging deeper where possible

Hostelling Highest

2011-12-15T00:00:00.000-08:00

The Islesburgh Hostel in Lerwick has 64-beds and something to make its staff and visitors sleep soundly as well as feel very proud. It has been awarded the highest accolade at an international hostelling convention in Vienna. So here is the world's best place of its type at which to stay. 2012 should bring increased business to the Islesburgh House Hostel that is geographically high in the UK, particularly from those who seek top establishments.

Scottish Islands Explorer - tries to be top among island magazines

Plenty To Look Up To

2011-12-14T00:00:00.000-08:00

The skies over Orkney have plenty of offer as these two images above Hoy Sound show. A group of enthusiasts want to look further afield and are establishing an island-based Astronomical Society. The inaugural meeting will take place on Tuesday 20 December. That day provides the longest hours of darkness during the course of the year - so it's significant for this type of observation.

Scottish Islands Explorer - encouraging people to look up as well as beyond

Rare Sighting

2011-12-13T00:13:00.000-08:00

There was a rare sighting, at the weekend, of a humpback whale off West Voe, Shetland. It was some 50' in length and came within 250 yards of the shore. The news spread and crowds gathered. STV covered the occurrence, the first in the area for over a year, in their evening report.

Scottish Islands Explorer - covering events off- and on-shore

But and Ben

2011-12-12T00:00:00.000-08:00

'Simplicity, sobriety and industry' apparently applied to island-life on Stroma, the only island administered from Caithness. Other distinctive differences are described in an analysis that includes references to the two major rooms in the single-storey houses that were occupied until 1962. These were the 'but' and the 'ben'. The Islands Book Trust has organised a trip to Stroma on Saturday 14 July and has published a finely-illustrated book, the cover of which is above.

Scottish Islands Explorer - plenty to explore

Under the Sand

2011-12-11T00:00:00.000-08:00

The Viking settlers at Skiall Bay in Sandwick, Orkney, built their homes to last, but would have been astonished to know that over a thousand years later there would be excavations to recover the foundations from the sand. What's more people from throughout the world are being asked to vote on their merit for an archaeological award. See this blog for more information.

Scottish Islands Explorer - digging for island treasures

Take a View

2011-12-10T00:00:00.000-08:00

This photograph of part of the Isle of Harris has won David Clapp a top award in a national competition. The details are presented in the Stornoway Gazette. Network Rail is involved in the sponsorship of the event while, of course, its presence in the Hebrides is non-existent.

Scottish Islands Explorer - always keen to display great images

Family and Free-Postage

2011-12-09T00:00:00.000-08:00

There's something about the Bell Rock Lighthouse that makes the blood race. It was the last of the lighthouses to be commissioned in the days of sailing ships and yet it stands the test of waves and time. Roland Paxton has written a book on the dynasty of the Stevenson family that had engineering and construction in their DNA coding. When purchasing a copy enter another code and it's yours post-free.

Scottish Islands Explorer - also post-free for subscribers

Summer (Isles) Job

2011-12-08T00:00:00.001-08:00

Here are the Summer Isles from Conival. You could be living, working and enjoying yourself on these islands this Summer. There is work available and so check out this advertisement and get your application in by Friday 6 January 2012. Tell them that you first saw the position here.

Scottish Islands Explorer - always open to free-lance writers

Detailed Viewing Direct

2011-12-07T00:00:00.000-08:00

DVDs certainly allow the armchair traveller to have detailed viewing direct. The stocks of DVDs at Scottish Islands Explorer permits highly-visual visits to the Highlands & Islands - whether to the west coast of the mainland, on ships and boats in and around the islands, to places that are relatively near or remarkably remote. A glance at the details of the score of videos on offer may revive memories, stimulate the urge to acquire, solve a present-buying problem.

Scottish Islands Explorer - good things for sale

Make Plans Now

2011-12-06T00:00:00.000-08:00

This image of Mingulay is sufficient to arouse the interests of most Scottish island explorers. It can be experienced this year with the Islands Book Trust which has just released its annual programme of visits and events. This deserves a thorough scrutiny because here are opportunities to learn about some stimulating topics and to reach places seldom on offer. There's Scarp and the southern side of the Pairc in the Western Isles; Stroma, the only island off Caithness; together with Canna, Wiay, Ronay, Soay, Pabbay Mor and Pabbay Beag. Make your 2012 plans now.

Scottish Islands Explorer - refreshes parts not reached by other magazines

A Mill Transformed

2011-12-05T00:00:00.000-08:00

The Bonhoga Gallery is to be found at Weisdale Mill on Shetland. It was originally a meal and barley mill, subsequently became a butcher's shop and was converted into an art gallery by the Shetland Arts Trust in 1994. Its range of exhibitions are extensive. A launch of the new Thames & Hudson publication, The New Artisans, will be held soon featuring, among others, two Whalsay textile designers.One of the framed photographs on sale at the gallery some three years ago was this compelling Shetland image by Phatsheep Photography - whose 2012 Calendar is now on sale through its website.

Scottish Islands Explorer - will feature the UK's most northerly gallery

Current Conversion

2011-12-04T00:00:00.000-08:00

This stretch of the river at Buonvoneader, on North Harris, once powered a generator at the long-closed whaling-station. The waters continued to flow and now the North Harris Trust looks forward to constructing a micro-hydro plant to supply local needs and feed into the national grid. Across the Minch provides an interesting video of the ways in which old forces can new create new energies.

Scottish Islands Explorer - continuing to supply interest

Wild About Lewis

2011-12-03T00:00:00.000-08:00

This image - courtesy of Murty Campbell and the Stornoway Canoe Club - indicates something of the club's activities and provides a taste of the scenes to be screened on the BBC Alba programme at 21.00 on Monday 5 December. Details are found in this Stornoway Gazette article. Here's a passive (and dry) way, by viewing the programme, of getting around a wild coastline and its off-shore islands.

Scottish Islands Explorer - also makes visits easy

Travelling Light and Right

2011-12-02T00:00:00.000-08:00

There was a time when travelling informatively meant lugging books as well as luggage. Now the technically-savvy can go light and be right about their destinations, accommodation, attractions and events. Apps for downloading information to mobile phones are on offer through Welcome to Scotland and so for a couple of pounds sterling there is a vast saving on pounds avoirdupoids!

Scottish Islands Exploration - destined to have an electronic version

Trees on the Hebrides

2011-12-01T00:00:00.000-08:00

The windswept conditions of the Hebrides are not conducive to tree-growing. Seeds and saplings have their 'predators' and so development is not easy. However, they are there and this blog drew attention to an official, commemorative planting in its Woods on Lewis item. Yesterday's entry on Across the Minch gives some interesting insights and certainly makes me look forward to progress reports.

Scottish Islands Explorer - growing with time ... and efforts

Take a Trip

2011-11-30T00:00:00.000-08:00

Fair Isle lies between Shetland and Orkney and has a distinctive lifestyle. There is an interactive map which provides photographs of features. So you can explore without venturing far. Take a journey.

Scottish Islands Explorer - this is where the magazine originated on 1 January 2000

Getting to Dibidil

2011-11-29T00:00:00.000-08:00

Yesterday's account of the kayaking venture to Islay brought over 150 visitors, not to the island, but to this blog. So today let's take a journey to Dibidil that remote bothy on Rum. Its construction led to a book being published by the Mountain Bothies Association. Your visit will be somewhat easier by log (i.e. journal), images and video clip. One of the participants was on what the writer described as a 'stag do'. Now that's an appropriate activity for visitors to Rum.

Scottish Islands Explorer - making visits easy

Savage Shores

2011-11-28T00:00:00.000-08:00

There have been cancellations to ferry services in the Northern and Western Isles during this month. That means there must have been some rough crossings on occasions. Take heart this Monday morning if your journeys to work involve mere road journeys and commutes. Here's an account of a Summer crossing to Islay by a method that's for the Three Es - element exposure enthusiasts!

Scottish Islands Explorer - an easier way of getting there

The Road to a Play

2011-11-27T00:00:00.000-08:00

When Calum MacLeod used a route on his home island of Raasay, he saw its potential as a road. The authorities did not share his view. So in the winters between 1949-52, he constructed the one-and-three-quarters-mile road with the help of his brother, Charles. Subsequently it became adopted and surfaced by the Council. Calum's Road is now the title and topic of a play performed by the National Theatre of Scotland.

Scottish Islands Explorer - also journeys from a small beginning

Numbers Count

2011-11-26T00:00:00.000-08:00

According to the records, this is the 200th entry in the blog. So we shall focus on numbers and anniversaries. The Croydon YHA Group - now known as COPSE (Croydon Outdoor Pursuits & Social Events) - was set up in 1934 and some 50 years later celebrated this when it inaugurated the Gatliff Marathon. It was in memory of one of its founder members, Herbert Gatliff, the man who started the Gatliff Hostels, the first of which at Rhenigidale, Isle of Harris, is pictured above. Tomorrow (Sunday 27 November) sees the 28th running of the Gatliff Marathon over 50kms and shorter distances. So if you happen to be in the Croydon area and want to go a little further on foot, just turn up and enter. It's a significant occasion, for within a couple of weeks the Gatliff Trust will be celebrating the 50th anniversary of its founding and remembering the work of Herbert Gatliff, a person who liked getting around - on foot where possible - and who relished getting things done. Rainbows all round!

Scottish Islands Explorer - running on