Camas Ban and Maiden Island

I like pictures where there is a definitive way to the sea. These are the rocks at Camas Ban, Wee Ganavan, which are uncovered at low tide. The way takes your eye to Maiden island, like most islands in these parts connected to legend. None of the stories are cheery, but perhaps the best is about a Celtic Warrior called Murdoch who was in love with Mhairi, daughter of a local man. Tales were told about Mhairi’s lack of chastity and it was decided (the legend does not say by whom) to tie the poor lass to a rock by her hair. If her hair was strong and kept her tethered, she would be proven innocent but she would drown. Murdoch made a heroic effort to swim to the island and rescue her, but the strong currents swept him away, and they both drowned. I did say it wasn’t cheery.

But there are several Scottish islands of this name and it is likely that these were used as a refuge for women folk during times of unrest.

Another grey damp day, finishing a bit better than it started.