(posted by Kay)
Yesterday we went on our first walk. The destination was the south east part of the west mainland. We had several places marked on the map from our meeting with Howard the ranger, and endeavoured to cover as much ground as possible. So, the first destination was Scarvister. We followed a track down to the end and found ourselves at the most incredible beach: Reawick, with one croft house overlooking a stunning bay. Joseph sat himself down and recorded the sound of the waves gently lapping on to the shore while I meandered along the beach looking, listening and celebrating the peace and beauty.
Next stop was the main part of the walk: Silwick-Westerwick. We left the car at the end of the road at Silwick, and headed off to the sea’s edge. WOW doesn’t go anywhere near how incredible the views were, with cliffs, stacks, arches, bays and verdant green-topped precipices dropping vertically into foaming water. Joseph discovered that lying down is the best way to avoid wind interference whilst recording, so had a lovely time lying around while I went foraging for botanical samples. We crossed back overland and chatted with a sheep farmer who told us about the Walls show today, where he entered prize winning sheep last year. So we immediately decided the Walls show was a must! (Joseph anticipating recording great animal noises.)
Next stop was Burrastow, beyond Walls. Burrastow House Hotel turned out to be the only place to get a cup of coffee within a 20 mile radius….and a jump start! We returned to the car at 5pm on a Saturday in one of the most remote parts of the country to find the car wouldn’t start. But nay problem, the friendly neighbours happened to have jump leads and we made it back to Scalloway.
When we got home I started photographing some of my finds with the microscope. Very pleased with my new acquisition!
