Join Alex and Katy for a marvellous maerl and vivacious verges extravaganza in Graemsay. This three-mile, there-and-back walk is an absolute delight consisting of Botany, Geology and Seashore points of interest.

We will catch the 12:00 ferry from Stromness and arrive in Graemsay at approximately 12:15.  Please make your own ferry bookings to and from Graemsay via Orkney Ferries website or telephone (there can be limited space on the 12.00 cargo boat and this is also a popular route for summer visitors). 

Then we will begin by walking 1 mile along a quiet tarmaced road with a rise of 50m towards Sandside beach, where we will have our picnic lunch; please bring your own food and refreshments. This beautiful place has an amazing maerl beach, fascinating rocks,  a wide variety of shells, dunes and seaweed.

After an hour or so at Sandside, we will then walk half a mile along the road to the quarry, where, weather willing, we will spot damsel flies.  The walk to the quarry will take us past verges filled with native wildflowers.

We will then retrace our steps to the pier for the 16:15 ferry, arriving in Stromness at 17.00.  ( If anyone wants to stay longer on Graemsay after the event, there is a later boat that leaves at 18.15, arriving in Stromness at 19.00.)

The only loos are on the ferry or at the pier waiting room.

Bring lunch, waterproofs, stout footwear and any sunscreen & medication you’ll need

Let us know you’re planning to join in case we have to cancel or reschedule due to bad weather. Email [email protected]