Old Man of Storr, Isle of Skye

What it is and why it matters

Trotternish is built from layers of volcanic rock, and the Old Man is a column of basalt left standing after a huge landslip along the Storr escarpment once the last glaciers had retreated. The pinnacle and the jumble of rock towers around it, including Cathedral Rock, make this one of the most photographed landscapes in Scotland, with views out over the Sound of Raasay.

Visiting practicalities

The walk starts from the back of the car park beside the A855, roughly 7 miles north of Portree. The route is graded moderate: good paths with uneven stone steps and some bare ground, climbing about 313 metres over 2.6 miles there and back. Allow around two hours. The section beyond Cathedral Rock can be steep, wet and very windy, and bad weather or rockfall can affect the trail, so turn back if you are not comfortable. Wear proper boots and waterproofs; Skye weather turns quickly. Early morning and evening are usually quieter than midday.

Nearby and combining your visit

The A855 continues north around Trotternish, so the Storr pairs well with a drive up the peninsula's east coast. Portree, Skye's main town, is the nearest base for food and fuel and is about 7 miles to the south. If the weather turns, the car park and lower path still give good views of the pinnacle.

Highlights

• Basalt pinnacle about 50 m high
• Formed by a post-glacial landslip on the Storr escarpment
• 2.6-mile (4.2 km) return walk with 313 m of ascent
• Views over the Sound of Raasay

Good to know

• Allow about two hours for the walk there and back.
• Paths have uneven stone steps; the upper section can be steep, wet and windy.
• Bad weather and rockfall can affect the trail, so check conditions and turn back if unsure.

Frequently asked questions