The Old Man of Storr

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This deservedly very popular walk climbs up for a close look at the massive pinnacle of the Old Man of Storr - one of Scotland's most iconic places. The Old Man is in fact just one element in an array of fantastic rock features, and the views out over the Sound of Raasay and to the mainland are stunning; the route described here leaves the crowds of the busiest up-and-down path to visit some of the best viewpoints.

Terrain

Clear hill paths, steep and rocky higher up. Signs warn of danger from rockfall; some eroded ground.

Public Transport

Bus from Portree - get off near Storr car park.

Start

The Storr car park is on the left side of the A855 heading from Portree towards Staffin. Open start point in Google Maps for directions.

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Walk Description

Stage 1

The Storr and its Old Man are iconic landmarks, well seen on the drive north from Portree. However it is well worth a closer look at the Old Man to appreciate the sheer grandeur of the rock scenery here. Park at the large Storr car park; there's a charge and toilets. The path starts through the gate near the back of the car park. The wide path winds uphill through a felled ahead. As height is gained, there are superb views back of the Isle of Raasay offshore and Applecross on the mainland beyond, as well as towards the Cuillin.

Stage 2

The path passes through two gates - ignore a path off left between - to eventually reach the open moor with the spectacular cliffs of the Storr up ahead.

Stage 3

The Old Man can be difficult to pick out from the cliffs behind from this point. Continue up the wide footpath. As more height is gained, look out for a clear path branching off left, leaving behind most of the crowd; take this turning. The path contours a little before ascending, swinging right on the main path (joining a path from the left) to climb up to the left of the Old Man; keep left at a fork (the aim is to pass behind the Old Man). The pinnacle looks incredibly impressive from here; 50m high, it was first climbed in 1955 by legendary mountaineer Don Whillans, though the rock is said to be as unstable as porridge!

Stage 4

The next section of walk has some danger from rockfall - it should certainly be avoided after heavy rains. Don't head up to the Old Man, instead taking the path that descends intol the dip behind it to pass around the back of the Old Man; the path is clear but crosses a short section of fallen rocks. This area - with towering cliffs and pinnacles all around - is known as the Sanctuary. Beyond the Old Man stands the Needle Rock - also known as the Cathedral, which has a window right through it near the top.

Stage 5

Pass behind the Cathedral Rock. For the classic view of the Old Man, you can continue on the path that leads north, keeping below the cliffs and reaching a small col.

Stage 6

From the col you can visit the small knoll on the right that has a superb view back over the Old Man.

Stage 7

Return to the col and retrace steps along the path behind the Cathedral Rock once more - don't be tempted to take a more direct line below the Cathedral Rock as it became very eroded and repairs are taking place. Once beyond the Cathedral Rock bear left on a path that descends between it and the Old Man, soon reaching the main constructed path. Follow it down to eventually retrace your steps back down to and through the gate.

Stage 8

Further down, you can turn right at the fork to follow an alternative, equally well made path for the descent section. This weaves about and passes a small lochan before rejoining the outward route. Continue down to return to the car park.

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The Old Man of Storr

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Terrain

Public Transport

Start

Users' reports

Walk Statistics

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