Brough of Birsay

Today we went to the north of Mainland. We called in at the Broch of Gurness, one of the best preserved prehistoric villages. It is situated on the shore, with a stunning shallow bay of white sand and aquamarine water. There were several pairs of ‘loons’, or Red throated divers which were calling in their mournful way.
Then on to the Brough of Birsay, the home of Earl Thorfin! Crossing is over a causeway accessible for two hours either side of low tide and we were lucky that this was at mid afternoon. Either side of the causeway were some rock pools of wonderful clear water, and I spotted some hermit crabs pottering about, I have never seen them before see extra.
We spent several glorious hours on the top, there was no wind and the sea was like silk, perfect for sea watching. And we were so lucky, there were Risso’s Dolphins feeding and splashing just offshore for a whole hour!
Also some beautiful views of puffins and razorbills.
What a perfect place!