Journal Part 14
Thursday 12th August 2009
After a comfortable night in the John O'Groats Youth Hostel we had breakfast with two young lads who were just setting out on their venture, cycling to Lands End on a very similar route to what we had taken.
After a lengthy discussion with them, we made our way to the Passenger ferry at Lands End, and headed to Orkney. The weather was kind to us, and the crossing was smooth.
When arriving at the southern tip of Orkney, we set off on a 25 mile ride to Kirkwall, which seemed luxury after the daily mileage we had been covering.
While in Orkney we were made very welcome, staying with friends, Margaret & Tommy. We enjoyed a relaxing couple of days taking in the sights, although we found it very strange not having to get up early, load the bikes up, and take to the road before the morning rush hour.
There are many things to see in Orkney and a couple of days isn’t long enough.
On route to Kirkwall we took in the sights, especially the Italian Chapel situated on island of Lambs Holm. This is a place that must be seen by anyone visiting Orkney. The Churchill Barriers and blockage boats are also worth visiting, preferably on a bonnie day.
The weather remained good until the last 7 miles, when the heavens opened and we ended up cycling into Kirkwall soaked, but with a sense of achievement.
Saturday 14th August 2009 / Sunday 15th August 2009
Late Saturday night we caught the ferry back to Shetland. On the ferry we received a warm reception from a number of people who were also travelling with us. Not least the Shetland Fencing Club, who once again had performed well in by winning a competition in Orkney. Well done!
Having slept on the floor in the front bar of the ferry, due to a lack of available cabins, we arrived in Lerwick on time at 07.30am. A steady enjoyable cycle was planned from Lerwick to Whalsay, but the weather had other plans. It rained for most of the ride, which ended up with both of us soaked through to the skin. I guess our journey had to end the way it started in Lands End.
We were able to dry out a little before catching the ferry from Laxo to Whalsay, and the warm support from the Whalsay folk made us forget how cold and wet we had been. When cycling off the ferry Malcolm's family were their to meet us, with congratulations, and camera's. This was a great experience for both of us, and one we'll never forget.
