Oronsay to Jura (craighouse)
02 September 2021 | Jura
Katrina Wright | Warm and sunny
Waking up in Oronsay was a very pleasant experience especially as Colonsay was so bumpy. So it was a quick breakfast and onto the island to explore the Priory Ruins.
On our way we met a farmer, I thought Oronsay was uninhabited but he informed us that there are 8 inhabitants and he was off to replenish the water for the cattle. He was as amazed as we were that Scotland was not covered in rain clouds. He also told us that some of the visitors aren’t so respectful, as access to Oronsay from Colonsay is tidal some people do not know what the implications are and arrive at the farmhouse (next to the priory ruins) expecting someone to take them back. One particular tourist took one of their two (very important boats). We said we hoped they managed to find them and charge them accordingly, they said it was not about the money, the issue was in the hands of the police. Those boats are their ambulances, supply “trucks” and general all round emergency vehicles. The only thing that spoils paradise are the visitors! My words not his.
What a fantastic place the Priory is, so many buildings and stones to explore. We also had a “friend” on our way back to the boat, a pigeon! Couldn’t believe it, he couldn’t work out how to shake us off, we were following the road/track and so was he, after a mile or so he must have been so tired keeping in front of us, he finally took flight.
Back in the dingy the waves had increased, twice the outboard motor failed but thankfully restarted again, I felt as if I was on Hawaii 5-0! It felt as though we were surfing down the waves, we are getting much better at this and the added bonus of it being warm and sunny.
It was then off to Jura, through the sound of Islay, one lighthouse and 3 distilleries along Islay and there are so many more. Arriving on Jura, craighouse, now on a mooring buoy, nice and safe. Here’s to another good nights sleep!