CAITHNESS
islands of South Ronaldsay and Lamb Holm may
sound remote but they are linked by the Churchill
Barriers, interconnecting causeways built during the
Second World War to protect the British fleet at Scapa
Flow. Now, used as road links, the barriers make
Orkney ripe for exploration over a short period of time.
After a day of breathing in sea air, perhaps setting sail
to far-flung islands, and experiencing hikes, herring,
skulls, stacks, steps and seabirds, retiring to a place of
comfort is paramount. The new Granary Lodge fits the
brief. Originally a three-storey grain
store, dating from the late 17th
century, it has been sensitively
restored and transformed into
accommodation that taps into the
experiences of the region and guests’
newly-formed memories of Caithness.
The drawing room is decorated in
dusky pastels, with grand faded rugs
and comfortable sofas set before a log
fire – all a reminder of the colour
palette, atmosphere and unexpected
cosiness of the Castle of Mey. The
decor has a maritime theme, with
shells, fish, anchors and paintings
of fisherwomen to tie in with the
coastal location. The 10 bedrooms
also echo the Queen Mother’s tastes:
pale hues emboldened by vibrant
floral soft furnishings, accompanied
by prints of local flora and fauna.
Final regal flourishes cement the
links with the castle. Upon entering
the building, guests will notice Her Majesty’s cipher,
ER, featured in the reception area. And a gallery of
photographs reveal candid, informal images of the
Queen Mother venturing out into the Caithness
countryside, enjoying picnics with friends, profiling
her prize livestock, or spending time with family.
Caithness has provided a haven for the royal family
for decades. It’s time for the rest of us to discover
its unique mix of nature, history and luxury. n
http://www.castleofmey.org.ukLeft: The Italian
Chapel on the
Island of Lamb
Holm, Orkney
Below: The newly
opened Granary
LodgeASHLEY COOPER PICS/ALAMY