The Old Man of Storr: Skye’s Most Legendary Rock

/ Old Man of Storr/

Ah, the Old Man of Storr — if there were a Highland Hall of Fame for iconic landscapes, he’d be right up front with his stony face poking through the clouds. Towering over the rugged coastline of the Trotternish Peninsula on the Isle of Skye, the Old Man is a place where geology meets mythology, and trust me, it’s a spot you don’t want to skip on your Scottish road trip.

A Bit of Backstory (and a Wee Legend)

The Old Man of Storr is a jagged pinnacle of rock that rises dramatically from the craggy hillsides of Skye’s Trotternish Ridge. Formed by ancient landslips (Skye’s got more landslides than a ceilidh has whisky), this pointy old fellow has stood watch over the Sound of Raasay for millennia.

Now, the locals will tell you tales that are a wee bit more fanciful. According to Skye folklore, the Old Man is the petrified remains of a giant who lived in the area with his wife. When he died, she buried him beneath the earth, and his finger — yes, just his finger — juts out of the ground, pointing skyward in eternal mourning. Or maybe it’s a warning. Or maybe it's just a good selfie spot. You decide.

The Walk: A Hike Worth Every Step

Let’s not sugarcoat it: the hike up to the Old Man isn’t a stroll in Princes Street Gardens. It’s a bit of a climb, especially if it’s been raining (and let’s face it, this is Skye, so it probably has). But oh, is it worth it.

  • Hike Time: 45 mins to 1.5 hours round-trip, depending on your pace and photo stops.

  • Distance: About 3.8km (2.4 miles) return.

  • Terrain: Gravel paths, muddy patches, and a short scramble near the top.

You’ll wind your way through eerie, almost otherworldly rock formations, past lochans (tiny lochs) and mossy moors, and finally up to the base of the Old Man himself. The views are… well, I won’t try to outdo your camera roll, but expect sweeping vistas across the Sound of Raasay, the Cuillin Mountains, and far-off islands on a clear day. The mist just makes it moodier, more cinematic — and honestly, a little bit magical.

Key Facts at a Glance

  • Location: Trotternish Peninsula, Isle of Skye

  • Parking: Free car park at the foot of the trail (often full by mid-morning)

  • Best Time to Visit: Sunrise for that golden glow — or sunset if you’re chasing drama

  • Dog Friendly: Aye, if your pup’s fit and mud-tolerant

How to Get There (Drive Times & Distances)

  • From Portree: 15 mins / 7 miles

  • From Broadford: 50 mins / 33 miles

  • From Inverness: 2 hrs 45 mins / 115 miles (including the Skye Bridge)

  • From Glasgow: 5 hrs 45 mins / 215 miles

  • From Edinburgh: 6 hrs 15 mins / 230 miles

Where to Refuel: Coffee, Cake & Highland Grub

Once you’re back down and your legs are wondering what just happened, you’ll be in need of a warm cuppa or a solid meal. Here are a few nearby gems:

Coffee & Cake:

  • The Isle of Skye Baking Company (Portree) – stellar pastries and artisan coffee.

  • Birch Café (Portree) – bright, modern, and a top spot for brunch or light bites.

Lunch/Dinner Options:

  • Café Arriba (Portree) – quirky, colourful, with great views and comforting food.

  • The Rosedale Hotel Restaurant – for something a bit fancier with views over the harbour.

  • The Isles Inn – traditional pub fare with Skye charm and whisky flowing.

Stay the Night (Because You’re Gonna Want To)

Whether you’re adventuring further up the Trotternish or winding your way back down south, Skye’s full of cozy places to crash. For the Old Man, Portree is your best bet for a base.

Overnight Options:

  • The Bosville Hotel (Portree): Chic boutique vibes and an award-winning restaurant.

  • Cuillin Hills Hotel: Stunning views over Portree Bay — romantic and peaceful.

  • Skye Basecamp Hostel: Budget-friendly and right in the heart of Portree.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Just See It – Feel It

The Old Man of Storr isn’t just a rock. He’s a mood. A myth. A marker of Skye’s wild spirit. Whether you catch him bathed in pink morning light, shrouded in fog like a ghostly sentinel, or silhouetted against the stars — he’s bound to leave a mark on you.

So lace up those boots, pack a waterproof (just in case), and give the Old Man a visit. He’s been waiting a long time.

Want help planning your route to Skye with scenic stops, folklore detours, and the best coffee on the island? Let’s build your ultimate itinerary — with maps, myths, and memories included.