An ancient pilgrim’s route between Tain and Kirkwall could be re-established.
The newly-formed Northern Pilgrims’ Way Steering Group want to promote the route linking St Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall with the grave of St Duthac in Tain and bring thousands of walking tourists to the area.
The ancient route of the Northern Pilgrims Way – established in the 12th century – brought pilgrims from all over the country to St Duthac’s grave.
When the bones of St Magnus were built into one of the pillars of Kirkwall Cathedral, it too became a popular pilgrimage destination.
It is hoped the route will attract the same interest as the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage in Spain.
A spokeswoman for the steering group, which met in Thurso last week, said: “As the tourist season gets under way in the north of Scotland, a new source of visitors is being explored.
“A small group met in Thurso library to discuss re-establishing the ancient pilgrimage route between Tain and Kirkwall.
“By the end of the meeting, the group had agreed a constitution as a non-profit making organisation, a name for the route, a logo and a route that was both historically valid and safe for modern travellers.
“The route shares the John O’ Groats Way between Tain and Dunbeath, curves inland from Dunbeath to Spittal via Loch More, using existing paths, and then crosses to Orkney via one of the three ferries at Scrabster, John O’Groats or Gill’s Bay.”
For more information, or to contact the group e-mail northernsaints@yahoo.com or call secretary Jane Coll on 01847 851467.