Bright and early this morning we were to be found packing Mungo with all we needed for a week in Orkney.  Peggy was determined not to be left behind:

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Soon we found ourselves on the east coast of Caithness, driving through very different landscapes compared to Assynt - very much more lush:

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We managed to negotiate the Berriedale Braes safely - a section of the A9 which can be absolutely treacherous, especially in the winter when the road is icy, and the view back towards the south was lovely, with the trees showing just a hint of autumnal colour:

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Stopping briefly to look at the stone marking the place where the last wolf in Scotland died:

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We continued our journey north to Gills Bay where we waited our turn to board the Pentalina:

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It was a bit of a grey day, but the crossing was calm:

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Before long the distinctive green fields of Orkney were visible:

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Once Mungo had disembarked

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it was just a short drive to our home for the week, Slap Cottage on Burray.  The dogs were soon at home!

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We are in Orkney for Stevan's graduation which takes place next week.  We intend having a real rest, so forgive me if the blog is a little quiet.