Birdwatcher's heaven! RSPB Balranald

Awoke to heavy rain so had a lie in and started blog. I had a hell of a shock last night - the corncrakes seemed to be right next to my van in the night, a really loud noise. I thought it was an alarm! The rain eased off, so followed sign saying Beach 40m.

Oh my word! This is the point of the campsite! A beautiful beach, with a walk across machair and then on to the RSPB reserve.

The ground was thick with arctic terns nesting, tiny flowers and lovely soft grass. I had a beautiful walk in my floppy wellies. Met a man with dog, who I was to see again several times over the next few days. Thankfully he didn't see me plunge up to my minty-bits in a large puddle, a la Dawn French.

Castlebay, South Uist and Benbecula

Spent the morning shopping (well an hour) and managed to visit most of the shops in Castlebay. Got some nice souvenirs but no bite cream to be had - they must all be immune. The heritage centre had the story of the various bastards who had ground down the residents for two hundred years, including shipping thousands off to Canada. As the final words said, it is good to know we are all equal in death.

Had a picnic lunch at the ferry terminal below, next to some lovely sculptures of otters.

Popped in to the pub called the AM Politician on Eriskay, named after a wrecked ship whose story is supposed to be linked to one of my favourite films - Whisky Galore! However, it was not quite as picturesque as I expected:

Drove over South Uist and Benbecula islands, over rocky wetlands along causeways along a single track road. Lots of warning signs about otters crossing but I didn't see any.

The campsite at RSPB Balranald is a flat field with no features, but has a thick carpet of flowers. I broke my bloody sodding awning. Also there is to be a ferry strike. I cooked some salmon for tea - are there no restaurants in this place? Sigh - I think I am a bit tetchy this evening.

Barra, Vatersay and the beach airport

Drove over the causeway to see Vatersay, passing stunning beaches. Another sunny day, only 3 bites so far.

In to the airport for traditional Hebridean fare of couscous salad with pesto and olives, plus a latte. Timed it well and actually saw a plane land on the beach. Lots of people admiring the van. The beach was covered in small white shells, and was swept by the fire brigade/baggage handlers/total staff of the airport.

It also had the cutest facilities - see the baggage reclaim -->

On the way back, called in at this chapel at Cille Bharra where Compton MacKenzie is buried.










The inside of the chapel is now empty except for a replica standing stone, More details here:

Cille Bharra

Back to Borve and eating in again tonight.