The Old Man of Storr

The Trotternish Ridge

In the north east of Skye, the Trotternish Ridge dominates the area! A hill featuring several summits, The Storr was created by an ancient landslide. Being the highest point on the Trotternish Ridge, at 719m, The Storr exposes a landscape shaped by ancient volcanic activity! Being able to leave the ridge at any point along it’s length, towards the east or the west, you can walk a shorter or longer route depending what you would like!

Are you a keen photographer? If so, The Quiraing is an essential route to follow. This is another summit on the Trotternish Ridge, with a distance of 6.8km. It is a circuit achievable within around 4 hours.

Old Man of Storr

Starting and returning to the same point, the walk towards the Old Man of Storr is around 4km of incredible scenery. Visible from the main road on Skye, from Portree, the Old Man of Storr has a height of 535 metres. Located near Loch Leathan, there is a small car park! Making it incredibly easy to access the route.

The visible path leading up to the Old Man of Storr and brings you to the base of the rock formation. Like a small challenge? It is worthwhile to the base of the Old Man of Storr, but be careful! Descending back down towards the car park, the route is incredibly simple. A day well spent!

How to get there?

Depending on where you are, the Trotternish peninsula where the Old Man of Storr is located is accessible. Have you just finished the Isle of Skye? If so, the route ends up in Portree, meaning that the Trotternish Ridge is only a 15-minute car journey away. Or if you are walking, it will take around 2 and a half hours.

However, if you are coming to Skye for the first time, it is accessible by bridge from the Kyle of Lochalsh. Or you can access the island by ferry which departs from the town of Mallaig on the mainland and arrives in Armadale. Taking a comfortable time of only 30 minutes, this is a great way to experience true Scottish scenery.

Explore the Area!

Throughout the Isle of Skye there is an abundance of things to experience! So many walks apart from the Old Man of Storr. An island with such amazing views, the best way to see the stunning views and landscapes are by walks like Quiraing, Faeire Glen and Neist Point. Being one of the larger of the Inner Hebrides, there is so much to explore on the island. As well as a range of walks, there are a range of activities and attractions.

After walking the Isle of Skye and the Old Man of Storr, why not see the island by water? A boat tour is relaxing, informative and in the right weather it gives you a different perspective of the island. Also, you will be able to see a range of different wildlife! Dolphins, whales, seals etc. As well as birds like Sea Eagles! There are a range of different companies that offer this service.

Another perfect addition to your trip are all the outdoor activities you are able to take part in! After walking up to the Old Man of Storr, this is another great way to relax or bond with family and friends! For example, the Isle of Skye offers sea fishing, sea kayaking. Or, do another very popular thing on the island, swim in the fairy pools!

The Fairy Pools

One of the main attractions on Skye, an incredibly worthwhile place to visit, are the fairy pools. Located on the west of the island, the Fairy Pools are a very popular place for both walkers and photographers. There are so many places on Skye worthwhile to photograph, but the Fairy Pools, along with the Old Man of Storr are truly unique! Though not close by to the Trotternish area, it is worth the trip!

Interested in History?

After walking up to the Old Man of Storr or walking the Isle of Skye, try and get to know the island some more!

Skye has a history that dates back all the way to the dinosaurs! On the shore at Staffin, on the north of the island, there are dinosaur footprints found on shore. Also, the kids would love this! There is a Dinosaur Museum near Staffin! Due to the island having such ancient history, Skye has a lot of ruins around it. There are many ruins of abandoned houses, some were left voluntarily, others were forcibly cleared when the landlords would want the land for their livestock.

Want to try something different?

Another lovely way to unwind after walking the way towards the Old Man of Storr, why not visit one of the many studios or galleries on the island? Skye’s incredible landscape makes it an incredibly inspiring place to live. So, it is no surprise that there are many creative people! From pottery, photography, painting, cross stitch to textiles and jewellery! You are bound to find something you like! Also, the art galleries will really make you appreciate Skye!

Finally, why would you go to a Scottish island without trying the local whisky? Talisker Whisky distillery, though located on the west of the island, in Carbost, is a worthwhile trip! Why not bring home a bottle of Skye’s award winning single malt whisky!

If you are interested in walking the Isle of Skye, or you would like more information about any of our other walks, contact us.

Thanks to pixabay.com for the images.