Kayak trip Stonehaven

Last Sunday the conditions were perfect for some caving and rock hopping with our sea kayaks. Together with our neighbours Lucy and Dave we set off from Stonehaven harbour. There was a strong Southwesterly wind, gusts up to a force 5, but we were sheltered  along the North East cliffs. With no swell at all we were able to explore all the stunning caves and watch amazing wildlife from up close.

Sailing boats in Stonehaven Harbour
Stunning caves
Grey seal
Paddling through waterfall

I've been to Stonehaven many times, but this was one of my best trips there so far. It was like we discovered a completely new spot! An already amazing trip was topped by watching two young grey seals swimming close to our kayaks. I took this video while I was in mine. Although there are some blurry shots, I was able to point my underwater camera in the right position most of the time (including rotating my upper body completely to the back) so I'm very pleased with the result. I've added some beautiful music that goes well with the way these seals move in their natural habitat, so don't forget to turn on your speakers!!

HD video Shetland

My first attempt in editing and uploading an HD video. It's a compilation of various footage from sea kayaking and underwater scenes like jellyfish, sea urchins, deadman's fingers and coral. It took me a few days to figure out how to get it just right (and three software packages for editing), but it's all worth it I think!
Have a look yourself and get inspired by Shetland's fascinating landscape.....

Winter walk Banchory

Finally, I conquered the horrible stomach flu after a week! My apetite is back again so I'm allowed to gain the 2 kg I lost. But first things first. Today was just a gorgeous, crispy winter day so I had to play outside again after sitting and lying on the couch/bed for so long. I took my car (with winter tyres) and drove to Raemoir hotel, close to our house, where I walked uphill (about 430 m) and enjoyed excellent 360 degree-views towards Scolty Hill, Clachnaben, Mount Keen, Lochnagar, Morven, Bennachie and Aberdeen coast.  View a short video:



and a few images:



On top of the plateau it was hard work. Not many people had walked there yet and thaw and freeze from the last few days had created a thick ice layer on top of the hard snow. This short video gives you an impression;



But it was all worth it and after 4 hours walking I really felt revived again!

Map of my walk: