On the westernmost tip of Orkney lies the Brough of Birsay. It is a tidal island, cyclically connected to the Mainland by a sandy tongue of land during four hours at low tide. This means that it is a Orkney sight only accessible during about eight of every twenty-four hours. When we were there, lowtide was at about eight in the morning and eight in the evening – not very comfortable times for your ordinary tour bus kind of tourists. For me and dad, however, the evening low tide made for a perfect after dinner walk to admire the sunset.
On the Brough of Birsay, the ruins of an old Viking village is the official attraction. And sure, it was cute, especially with the grass and the flowers growing over the old stones. But compared to Skara Brae, this was nothing.
The real attraction, what almost made it the most amazing experience of our entire Orkney trip, was the view on the other side of the hill. (Picture taken by dad.)
The Atlantic, opening in front of us, the sun lying low over the horizon while the dark purple storm clouds gathered strength behind us over the Mainland. A moment of pure perfection.
On the drive back to Kirkwall, were we were staying, the ominous clouds gave the grassy hills an almost gothic feel, while the wind mills were still, awaiting the rain.
Katja Malmborg 