What better way to enjoy the journey over the Churchill Barriers in Orkney, than by motorbike.

The Churchill Barriers were constructed by Italian POW’s during World War II and now form an important road link between the southern Orkney islands of South Ronaldsay, Burray and Lamb Holm.

This video was taken using a GoPro HD camera attached to the helmet of a motorcycle rider on his Yamaha FJR1300.

His journey starts at Barrier number 4 which links the island of South Ronaldsay to the island of Burray.

To the right are clearly visible, the remains of one of the most complete and oldest sunken block ships, The Reginald.  Built in 1878 and sunk in Weddel Sound in 1915, the 930 ton 3 masted motor schooner is today used to store lobster creels.

From the Island of Burray, the short second barrier links to the small island of Glimps Holm and continues on to the second barrier to Lamb Holm where the stunning Italian Chapel built by the prisoners of war can be found.

The journey continues onto the first barrier which links to the southern part of the western mainland.

Turning left through St Mary’s the A961 follows the coastline of Scapa Flow toward Kirwall.Similar Posts:

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It is often strange how and where you come across references to places or people.

North Orkney 290 miles from Haltwhistle

Standing proud in a north of England town is a fingerpost, celebrating that north Orkney is only 290 miles away.

The town in question in called Haltwhistle and is situated about a third of the way between Carlisle and Newcastle, just off the A69 in Northumberland.

Haltwhistle boasts that it is the centre of Britain. But this no doubt this depends on where you measure to and from.

The market square in Haltwhistle

With Hadrian’s Wall being only three miles away the area is popular with tourists, especially during the peak summer months.

The town is also popular with walkers and cyclists as many cross country routes, such as the Route 72 cycle way, pass through the area.

In the centre of the town in the old market area is a circular 1m wide bronze disc embedded into the stone flagged pavement.

It  contains images of the surrounding area and reflects a number of interpretation panels to be found around the town.

This sign made us wonder how many walkers, cyclists or just general holiday makers thought of going to Orkney as a result of seeing this sign.

Let us know your story via the comments area below.

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Over four years of research have led to the definitive book detailing the true story behind the little Italian chapel, built in Orkney during World War II.

Goes on sale in the UK on 10th June 2010

The Italian chapel created on the island of Lambholm in Orkney was constructed by Italian prisoners of war, from two World War II Nissen huts, exceptional artistic talents and a need for some measure of peace.

During World War II, Italians taken prisoner in Africa were shipped to the seemingly inhospitable Orkney islands to assist with the building of the Chuchill Barrier defences.

This new book; Orkney’s Italian Chapel: The True Story of An Icon, written by Philip Paris, charts the trials and tribulations faced by these men and how their passion driven skills transformed this small southern Orkney Island.

Like Philip and his then new wife Catherine, we too were left speechless at the awe inspiring artistry and skill, wondering about the lives of the men who created from the heart, something so breathtakingly beautiful in a time of such darkness and despair.

Philip went on to find out more and for over four years tracked down the former POWs of camp 60, their relatives and people of the islands, to give a deeper insight into the lives of the prisoners and how their presence affected Orcadian lives.

The book starts with a detailed history of why the Italian prisoners ended up in Orkney, how enemies became friends, their uncertainty and fears for themselves and for loved ones back in Italy.

As the book unfolds, it brings some understanding of the minds of the craftsmen, only serving to make the chapel that they created, even more poignant.

Many previously unseen images and stories from the prisoners’ descendants are included in the book, which help to bring the chapel to life and show what it meant to the men who built it.

Forbidden Love

One of the small details I noticed when walking through the stunning rood screen, was a small metal heart inlaid in the floor under the gates.  I thought that this was merely a craftsman’s flourish but Philip’s book reveals a true war torn love story.

For anybody interested in this wonderful Italian chapel or indeed the lives of those during the Second World War, this book is an absolute must read. Well researched and presented, Philip has brought us closer to the men of Camp 60, who’s inspiring stories, led to one of the greatest icons of peace and hope, ever to come out of the Second World War.

About the author

Philip Paris was brought up in Gateshead. He entered the printing industry on leaving school before moving to Royal Tunbridge Wells in 1983 to take up a job as a reporter for Printing World magazine. He worked in various trade press journalist/editor rolls until he joined a PR company in Esher that specialises in graphic arts. Still with them, but now living in the Highlands, he writes about his passion with the Italian chapel on Lambholm.

Orkney’s Italian Chapel; The true story of an icon, is published by Black & White Publishing and will be launched at a book-signing event at Waterstones bookstore in the Eastgate Centre, Inverness, at 7pm on Thursday, 10th June 2010.

Mr Paris will give a talk at Nairn Book Festival earlier the same day. There is no charge for entry to the book signing.

ISBN: 978184502292-1

More information

Spirit of Orkney – Article on the Italian Chapel of Lambholm.

Philip Paris – Other books written by this author and his biography.

Black & White PublishingSimilar Posts:

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Wide open spaces, peace, tranquility and the sounds of nature blend together making Orkney one of the perfect places to strap on the walking boots and go for a walk.

Thousands of acres await any visitor to the mainland or the Isles who want to reset their brains and forget about the hustle and bustle of city life.

Looking out over the Churchill Barriers

During every walk you should stop and take in the surroundings.  Take a moment to listen and look around and you may hear the sounds of the Atlantic beating against cliffs or see a seal enjoying the afternoon sun.

Signposted

Many walks are signposted and have well maintained paths and gates.  Please keep to these paths and take care to keep away from animals. Keep dogs well under control at all times.

For the more adventurous or those people who want a local guide to help, a number of companies are now available to provide assistance.  A local guide is especially useful during the winter or in bad weather to ensure your safety.

We have put together details of a number of walks, guides and maps on our sister site www.wherecanwewalk.com.

If you know of any walks not featured in this list or are a local guide then please get in touch and we can update our information.Similar Posts:

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Camping in Orkney can be a very rewarding experience, many campsites are near the shoreline and offer stunning views over the archipelago.

Enjoy camping in Orkney

Wild camping is also a right of passage in Scotland, with breathtaking scenery and well kept public facilities.  Of course, it is important that you look after the countryside and adhere to the Wild Camping Code.

Around the mainland and on many of the islands, there are some superb camping facilities and hostels but it is always wise to check with them first, as some are limited for space and may not be able to accommodate all type of camper.

We have provided a list of the ones we know of but if you have a site that you wish listed or want to make any alterations to your entry (there is no charge), please contact us using the form at the bottom of the page.

You may also want to try the website http://www.orkney-campsites.com for loads of information about campsites, camping and associated businesses.

Ayre’s Rock Hostel & Campsite

Sanday, Orkney, KW17 2AY

Paul and Julie Allan welcome you to Ayre’s Rock. We  have Four Star accredited hostel accommodation on a self-catering or B&B basis, and evening meals can be provided too.

The shop stocks local crafts and the Chip Shop offers hot meal takeaways on Tuesday and Saturday nights.

Birsay Outdoor Centre

Birsay, KW17 2LY

Birsay Outdoor Centre offers comfortable three star accommodation in the northwest corner of the Orkney Mainland, in close proximity to spectacular and varied coastline, including dramatic cliffs and quiet beaches.

The centre has been recently refurbished and offers comfortable accommodationin it’s 5 bedrooms, with all new furniture, beds and appliances.

Exclusive room hire is available; the hostel welcomes singles, groups and families.

Burnmouth Cottage (Isle of Hoy) WILD CAMPING

Nr Rackwick, Isle of Hoy, Orkney

Wild / rough camping areas close to Rackwick include behind the hostel, down by new public conveniences or near to Burnmouth Cottage a heather thatched bothy.

Treat areas with respect and seek permission.Walk to Old Man from here. See wild camping in Scotland advice.

Deerness Community Centre Caravan and Camp Site

Deerness, Mainland Orkney, KW17 2QH
Contact: 01856 741317

Set in the heart of the picturesque farming community of Deerness in the East Mainland of Orkney, sandy beaches, coastal walks, 1/4 mile to shop.

Eviedale Centre Camp Site

Evie, Orkney, KW17 2PJ

There are pitches for about 10 tents and two small camper vans (suggest ringing before arrival).

Facilities are provided for those people wishing to avoid larger Municipal sites and who enjoy a rural setting.

We must point out, we are not a holiday park, do not offer laundry facilities, ‘hook ups’ or sewage disposal and are afraid, can not accept dogs or towing caravans.

We do offer safe, simple camping on a small uncrowded site with clean toilets, showers, washing up station, rubbish removal and a few picnic tables.

For the 2010 season we hope to have WiFi Broadband available on the campsite.

Peter Heaton. Tel. (01856) 751270 – Intl. +44 1856 751270
Colin Richardson. Tel. (01856) 751254 – Intl. +44 1856 751254
Mobile – 0774 3931788

Hoy Centre

Moaness, Hoy, Orkney
Tel; 01856 873535

Burnhouse (disabled access), Englefield, Quoys, Warbister, Klebreck, Orgill, Creekland and Torriedale are spacious 8 bedrooms, which are all en suite, with a shower.
The rooms sleep four people and consist of two single beds and bunk beds. All bed linen is provided.
Each room has a desk and seating for four and there are 4 lockers in each room.

Pickaquoy Caravan And Camping Site

Muddisdale Road, Kirkwall, KW15 1LR, Orkney

Orkney’s largest caravan and camping park, located at The Pickaquoy Centre and only a short walk from the town centre. This VisitScotland 4-star Touring Park has facilities for 80 pitches, of which 28 have electric hook-ups and hard standings.

Point Of Ness

Stromness, KW16 3DL, Orkney
01856 873535

Located in a quite shoreline setting overlooking stromness.

Rackwick Outdoor Centre

Rackwick, KW16 3NJ, Orkney

Rackwick Outdoor Centre has 2 bedrooms containing 4 beds each (2 bunkbeds per room).
Family/private rooms can be arranged on request and there is access to the Hostel during the day once check in is complete.
The self-catering kitchen is fitted out to a high standard with all normal cooking facilities and is available all day.  A washing machine is provided
There is a communal area with table and chairs, plus local information.
Each guest has his or her own key to access the hostel.
A sheltered camping area is available to the rear of the hostel, price includes use of facilities in the hostel.

Rousay Hostel and Campsite (Isle of Rousay)

Trumland Farm, Rousay, Orkney, KW17 2PU
Tel: Carol Rae on 01856 821252

Enjoy staying on a working organic farm near the Pier Pub Restaurant. Hostel can provide cycle hire if needed.

Rufford Caravans

Burray, Orkney, KW17 2SU, Orkney

Three fully equipped self-catering caravans and they are situated on the croft land of Sunnyside adjacent to Rufford.

Sand O Gill

Mrs Dorothy Groat
Pierowall, Isle of Westray Orkney, KW17 2DN

A warm welcome awaits you at Sand o’Gill. The house overlooks Pierowall Bay and the harbour at Gill Pier where the ferry “The Golden Mariana” comes in from Papa Westray. Pierowall village and the shops are just a five minute stroll away.
Sand o’ Gill is a good starting point for walking round the island – they have cycles for hire if you want to be a little more active.  Bed and breakfast is the main business; with rooms in the house, a two-bed flat with a double and small twin, and two caravans.

The Barn Hostel and Campsite

Pierowall, Westray, Orkney, KW17 2BZ

The hostel is situated right at the start of Pierowall village, over-looking the bay about 7 miles from the ferry terminal.

Wheems Bothy and Campsite

Wheems Bothy, Eastside South Ronaldsay, Orkney, KW17 2TJ

Wheems organic farm is an ecological and organic 10 hectare  horticulture and animal smallholding, producing organic food for a local market.

Wheems farm buildings are 200 years old and have been renovated using local, traditional and susatainable materials.

Wheems farmland has been sensitively landscaped with areas set aside for conservation, areas carved out with stone dyke walling, and areas of tree planting.

Facing south and east on a hillside with sea-cliffs and beaches, on South Ronaldsay, the Orkney Islands, Scotland. On Orkney there is nature, peace, space and sky.

Wheems Farm organic holidays includes accommodation for 2 – 8 people in Wheems Self Catering Bothy, and Camping for up to 16 pitches. Wheems Self Catering Bothy  is simple, yet beautiful, light and airy.

There is a small balcony looking out to the sea, cliffs and beaches.Wheems Campsite  occupies a sea facing field and facilities for campers and bothy guests include use of the Wheems Yurt.

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For thousands of years the Orkney Isles have been seen by mariners as a great place to stock up with provisions before or after a great sailing expedition.

SAGA Ruby visiting Kirkwall in 2009

In modern times the safe harbours offered by Orkney were the last stopping point for ships heading out across the Atlantic to the New World and beyond.

Today this tradition continues with cruise liners frequently stopping in the waters just off Kirkwall and Stromness.

Orkney is now Scotland’s favourite cruise destination and third most popular in the United Kingdom.

According to a survey conducted in 2008 cruise ships boost Orkney’s economy by more than £2.8 million a year.

These ships deliver more than 30,000 passengers and 10,000 crew in to the local shops, restaurants and historic sites.

This accounts for around 25% of Orkney’s total annual visitors.

The average spend per passenger on shore was £49,  with 94% of total passenger numbers coming ashore either to tour or shop.

Popular destination

Around 70 ships visit the islands every year.

The survey was commissioned by the Orkney Islands Council’s Director of Harbours, following a generic report by the same agency on European Cruise Ship ports and their economic comparative data.

Already scheduled for arrival in Orkney during 2010 are some well known cruise liners including:-

• Statsraad Lehmkuhl – a three-masted barque rigged sail training vessel owned and operated by the Statsraad Lehmkuhl Foundation.
• Ocean Countess – Operated by Cruise & Maritime Voyages
• Oriana – Operated by P&O Cruises
• SAGA Ruby – Operated by SAGA holidays
• ms Eurodam – Operated by Holland America Line

Tall ships

Statsraad Lehmkuhl in Kirkwall

Orkney is one of 12 harbours around Scotland to be selected as a guest harbour to play host to Tall Ships during The Tall Ships Races in July 2011.

Both Greenock and Lerwick are official host ports within the race series, and plans are taking shape to encourage Tall Ships to visit to Scottish Guest Harbours during the cruise in company leg between Greenock and Lerwick from July 12-21.

Shetland is taking the lead to develop the nine day sail between these ports, a non-competitive leg of the Races series.

For further information about The Tall Ships Races-Lerwick, please visit www.tallshipsraceslerwick.com

Further information

Cruise Scotland website – Breathtaking scenery, stunning cities, haunting history, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and a variety of ports large and small make Scotland the perfect cruise destination.

Orkney Marine Services – Marine Services provides all pilot launch and pilotage services directly as well as Vessel Traffic Services for Scapa Flow and approaches and the Kirkwall Harbour area.Similar Posts:

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Blessed with two distilleries, Orkney is well placed to be on the whisky trail for every lover of good quality spirit.

The Highland Park Distillery is the most northern of all the distilleries in the world beating the Scapa Distillery by about a mile or so.

Highland Park is one of the few distilleries to malt its own barley, using locally cut peat from Hobbister Moor.

Both whisky’s are used in blends found on many high streets.

About whisky

Highland Park Distillery - Orkney

Whisky is made from malted barley, fresh water, yeast, wooden casks and time.

Centuries of craftsmanship goes into producing what appears on the surface to be a simple drink. However, as you try the many single malts from all over Scotland you begin a journey through history and countryside.

Scotch whisky is protected as a geographical product in the same way Champagne is in France.

It is worth over £2,000 million in export earnings every year.

Orkney whisky

Scapa Distillery

Both distilleries on Orkney have a strong heritage.

Highland Park started on the island in 1798. The history of Scapa distillery begins in 1885.

Whisky produced on the Island is classed as belonging to the Highland region of whisky production.

This is one of the largest regions geographically and this is reflected in the varied tastes offered in the final dram.

Being close to the sea and blessed with fresh air and fresh flowing water from nearby rivers, the whisky produced on Orkney has broad appeal.

Spirit produced at Scapa is seen in some circles to be of a simple nature, lacking the complexity of those bottled at Highland Park.

What is your favourite tipple from Orkney and why? Share your thoughts via the comments box below.

Contact details for Highland Park

St. Ola,
Kirkwall,
Orkney
KW15 1SE
Email: info@scapamalt.com

Tours not available ( Feb 2010)

Further whisky information

The Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) promotes, protects and represents the interests of the whisky industry in Scotland and around the world.

Scotland’s West Coast Whisky Trail -

Scotland’s Malt Whisky Trail - The only malt whisky trail in the world (Speyside).

List of over 40 distilleries to visit –  pdf download

Download ‘How to Nose and Taste’ (pdf)

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Visiting the Orkney Isles is addictive and one of the best ways to see the islands is to go camping.

Many people travel to Orkney via ferry, bringing their own motor home with them, However, we would point out that the roads in Orkney are not designed for large vehicles and heavy traffic, many are indeed single track road with passing places, which could make some of the large, modern mobile homes a little cumbersome.

An enterprising couple on the mainland are offering tourists the freedom to travel light and hire a self drive camper van when they get there….and yes, they are genuine VW camper vans, lovingly named;

Poppy, who is a 1986 Leisuredrive conversion and Mr Bumble, a 1982 Westfalia High Top

The vans are equipped with everything you need to start your holiday, all you need to do is chose what to do first.

Hiring a VW camper gives you the freedom to choose where you go and how long you stay there as well as being compact and easy to drive around Orkney’s roads.

“It’s not just your wheels and your bed, it’s a way of life”.

Wild Camping
As well as campsites, Orkney (and the rest of Scotland) is one of the few places in the UK that you can still wild camp.

Plenty of beaches have public toilets with drinkable water and sinks.

People are asked to be aware of their impact on the natural habitat when wild camping, so there are a few simple rules to ensure your stay leaves the beautiful beaches as you found them and the facilities clean and tidy. This will ensure that this privilege lives on long after we have all gone.

A Hire Car with a Difference
Why not think about hiring a camper van as an alternative to a conventional hire car? It is much cheaper than a hire car and a hotel, plus you get to live the dream and you can vary whether you sleep in the van, stay with friends or at a B & B or Hotel, the choice is yours.

Have you seen Poppy or Mr Bumble?
Maybe you have seen one of these characterful camper vans on your tour of the islands or perhaps you have even hired one…If you have some happy camping stories and pictures to share, then just send them to us via the comments link at the end of the article.

More about camping in Orkney

Orkneycampers.com – Genuine VW camper van hire

Wild camping in Scotland

Orkney camping, caravan & hostels - A full list of camping and caravan sites on the Orkney mainland and islands

Be a responsible camper – Scottish outdoor access codeSimilar Posts:

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There are many great places to stay on the Orkney Isles.

Guest houses and bed and breakfast accommodation is plentiful and a hearty welcome awaits visitors to the islands.

Kirkwall harbour, Orkney

Self caterers can be assured of an incredible range of high quality places to stay.

You can choose from refurbished mills to town centre apartments.

Camp sites and hostels are well equipped to service those bringing their own caravan or motor home.

Many sites have static caravans providing stunning views of the islands.

For a details of places to stay on the mainland and islands, go to www.visitorkney.com

Wherever you choose to stay, you are assured of warm Orcadian hospitality

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Although Orkney has only had a regular ferry service since 1992, the Islands are easily accessible by Air and sea.

The Pentalina

Ferry services from Aberdeen, Gill’s Bay, John O’ Groats and Scrabster sail regularly to the island taking passengers by car, motorhome, motorcycle, bicycle and of course on foot.

One of the shortest crossings from Gill’s Bay to St Margaret’s Hope on South Ronaldsay only takes an hour with Pentland Ferries.

Rail links into Scotland provide an easy alternative for those who wish to leave their vehicles behind.

By air you can take in stunning views of the islands, with Flybe flights (operated by Loganair) from the major British airports and good inbound links from European and North American destinations.

Leaving Kirkwall Airport

CityLink operate buses from the main Scottish bus stations to Aberdeen and Thurso/Scrabster that connect with the NorthLink Ferries service.

The Orkney Bus provides direct express travel from Inverness through to Kirkwall, (May to September) connecting with the John O’Groat’s Ferries.

The local buses operate a service between Thurso and Gill’s Bay connecting with Pentland Ferries.

Buses/Coaches

Scottish Citylink Coaches Ltd www.citylink.co.uk 08705 50 50 50

The Orkney Bus in partnership with John O’Groats Ferries www.jogferry.co.uk (01955) 611 353

The Orkney Express, (01856) 870555

By Sea

John O’Groats Ferries Ltd www.jogferry.co.uk (01955) 611 353

NorthLink Ferries www.northlinkferries.co.uk 0845 6000 449
Please note photographic ID is required for travelling with Northlink Ferries.

Pentland Ferries have 3 to 4 sailings per day depending on season from  Gills Bay and St. Margaret’s Hope.
Pentland Ferries www.pentlandferries.co.uk (01856) 831 226

By Air

Flybe operated by Loganair, flights to Kirkwall, www.flybe.com, tel 0871 7002000

Kirkwall Airport. www.hial.co.uk/kirkwall-airport.html (01856) 886210

Travel Agents

Tour operator run many specialist packages. Some of these operators have special interest packages.

Ridgway Travel & Holiday Centre www.ridgwaytravel.co.uk (01856) 873359
The Orkney travel specialist.

Orcadian Wildlife www.orcadianwildlife.co.uk (01856) 831 240
Orkney birdwatching, wildlife and culture holidays. Self catering also available.

Orkney Archaeology Tours www.orkneyarchaeologytours.co.uk (01856) 721 450
Holidays, short breaks and tours led by professional archaeologists and guides.

Orkney Arts Adventures www.rosecrossing.com (USA 001) 516 978 2260
Cultural immersion travel. Workshops with the arts and history.

Orkney Island Holidays www.orkneyislandholidays.com (01856) 711 373
Guided holidays and tours with island experts.

Scottish Cycling Holidays www.scotcycle.co.uk (01250) 876100
Specialists in self-led, group & tailor made tours to all parts of Scotland.

John Leask & Son www.leaskstravel.co.uk (01595) 693 162
Discover orkney and Shetland with a specialist family run company.

Wildabout Orkney Tours www.wildaboutorkney.com (01856) 851 011
Unique personal guided tours with professional accredited orkney tour guide, Naturalist and Historian.

McKinlay Kidd www.seescotlanddifferently.co.uk/scottish-island-holidays/45/ (+44) 8707 60 60 27
We design short breaks, celebration trips and tailormade self drive holidays to Orkney.

Orkney Marinas www.orkneymarinas.co.uk (01856) 871313
Secure, affordable, serviced pontoon berthing with a wide range of onshore facilities for visiting boast in 3 marinas at Kirkwall, Stromness and Westray.

Tour Orkney & Shetland www.tourorkneyshetland.co.uk (01856) 87 6566
Specialising in quality group tours, guiding services, inclusive holidays and shore excursions.

Scotsell Holidays & myguide Britain, www.visitislands.co.uk (0141) 5308598
Scotsell for Specialising in individual self drive holidays throughout Scotland, including Orkney.

More detailed travel information can be found on the official Orkney tourist website www.visitorkney.com

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