The Old Man of Storr

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.

Terrain

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

Public Transport

Bus number 57 - 4 times a day from Portree - get off near Storr car park.

Start

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

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Walk Statistics

Distance: 4.5km / 2.75 miles
Time: 1.5 - 2 hours
Ascent: 288m (Profile)
Start Grid Ref: NG508528

Maps / GPS

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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 (as pictured). 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 Storr car park or the layby alongside - both are often very busy. The path starts through the gate by the information board.

Stage 2

The excellent path winds uphill through the felled area - which will eventually become native woodland. This section was once a quagmire but follow a series of improvement projects can now be done with dry feet. Keep right at a fork. Looking back, the views of the Isle of Raasay offshore and Applecross on the mainland beyond improve as height is gained. Keep right at a second fork. Eventually the made up path ends after a gate and the open moor is reached with 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 pitched, rocky stone footpath. As height is gained, look out for a clear path branching left; take this turning. The path contours a little before ascending, swinging right to climb up to the left of 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. Follow a path that descends 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. Continue towards this, but turn right before reaching it to begin the descent.

Stage 5

There are several variant paths at first but all soon join as the descent continues, passing well below the east side of the Old Man. Once back on the main path, follow it down to eventually retrace your steps back onto the made path through the felled area.

Stage 6

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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