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Nature · Portree, Escócia
Old Man of Storr
The roughly 50-metre rock pinnacle on the Storr’s slope in the north of the Isle of Skye, formed by an ancient landslide, with an uphill path and views over the lochs and the sea.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Old Man of Storr
The Old Man of Storr is a basalt needle about 50 metres high on the east flank of the Storr, the mountain that dominates the Trotternish peninsula in the north of the Isle of Skye. The rock, together with smaller pinnacles, was left standing by a massive landslide on the slope thousands of years ago, which left isolated blocks in front of the escarpment. Seen from a distance, the formation looks like a figure, which explains the name.
The trail starts from the car park on the A855, about 11 km north of Portree, and climbs the slope for roughly 3.8 km round trip, with about 300 metres of ascent. The path has been rebuilt in many places but includes steep sections and loose rock. From the top, near the base of the pinnacle, views reach Lochs Leathan and Fada, the strait of Raasay, the islands of Raasay and Rona and, on clear days, the mainland mountains.
The site appears in films such as Prometheus and is one of Scotland’s most photographed spots. There are local legends about giants linked to the rock. The route above the pinnacles to the Storr summit is more exposed and requires experience.
The car park is paid and fills up in summer. The trail becomes slippery in rain, and the weather on the slope changes quickly.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the base of the pinnacle and return.
Best time
Very early, at sunrise, when the light hits the east-facing slope and the car park still has spaces. In summer, after 9:00 it gets very busy. Avoid days with low cloud.
How to get there
The car park is on the A855, about 11 km north of Portree, a 15-minute drive. The bus that does the Trotternish peninsula circuit usually stops nearby. Many tours leaving from Portree pass this way.
Tip
Climb early to catch the sunrise behind the pinnacles and an empty car park. Good hiking footwear with grippy soles makes a difference on the loose-rock sections.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Old Man of Storr
Is the Old Man of Storr trail difficult?
Moderate: about 3.8 km round trip with 300 meters of ascent, including steep sections and loose stones.
How long does it take?
About 1.5 to 2 hours round trip to the base of the pinnacle.
What's the best time to go?
At sunrise, for the light on the slope and fewer people.
Is it far from Portree?
About 11 km north, a 15-minute drive.