Few places capture the magic of Scotland like the Old Man of Storr on the Isle of Skye.
Rising above green slopes and overlooking the Sound of Raasay, this rock pinnacle is not only the island's symbol but also one of the most photographed landscapes in the world.
To help us plan smoothly, here's a detailed guide with everything we need: entrance info, transport costs, accommodation, dining, and insider tips.
<h3>Tickets and Opening Hours</h3>
The great news is that visiting the Old Man of Storr is free. There's no entrance ticket required. The only cost is parking, which is about $3–5 for a few hours at the main car park near the trailhead. Payment is possible by card or coins.
<b>- Trail Access:</b> Open 24/7, year-round.
<b>- Facilities:</b> Toilets at the car park usually open from 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
Since the trail is free and open at all hours, many hikers prefer early morning or evening to avoid crowds.
<h3>How to Get There</h3>
<b>- By Car:</b> From Portree, it's only 15 minutes (7 miles / 11 km) north via the A855 road. Car rental on Skye averages $60–90 per day depending on season.
<b>- By Bus:</b> Stagecoach 57A runs from Portree to Staffin and stops near the trailhead. A single ticket costs about $4–6 per person and takes 20–25 minutes.
<b>- By Tour:</b> If we don't drive, many day tours from Portree or even Inverness include the Old Man of Storr. Prices range from $50–100 per person for a half- or full-day guided tour.
<h3>The Hiking Experience</h3>
<b>- Distance:</b> 2.4 miles (3.8 km) round trip to the main viewpoint; about 4.5 miles (7 km) if we continue to the summit.
<b>- Duration: </b>1.5–2 hours for the viewpoint; 3–4 hours round trip if hiking to the top.
<b>- Difficulty:</b> Moderate. The path is clear, but the summit requires some steep climbs.
Highlights include The Sanctuary, filled with jagged rock formations, and the summit at 719 meters (2,359 ft), offering sweeping views of Skye and the sea.
<h3>Best Time to Visit</h3>
<b>- Season:</b> May–June and September–October for mild weather and fewer crowds.
<b>- Daily Timing:</b> Sunrise hikes are magical with golden light and fewer people. Sunset offers equally stunning views, but we'll need a headlamp for the descent.
<b>- Weather:</b> Skye weather is unpredictable—rain, mist, and sunshine can all occur in a single day. Always pack waterproof layers.
<h3>Accommodation Near the Old Man of Storr</h3>
If we want to stay nearby, Portree is the best base:
<b>- Budget:</b> Hostels or B&Bs in Portree start from $40–60 per night.
<b>- Mid-range: </b>Hotels and guesthouses average $100–150 per night.
<b>- Luxury:</b> Boutique stays or sea-view hotels cost $200+ per night.
<b>- Tip:</b> Book early in summer (June–August), as rooms sell out quickly.
<h3>Dining Options and Pricing</h3>
There are no cafés or restaurants at the trailhead, so we should eat in Portree before or after the hike. Some popular choices:
<b>- Café Arriba (Portree):</b> Breakfasts, soups, and sandwiches – around $10–15 per person.
<b>- The Lower Deck (Portree): </b>Fresh seafood plates, about $20–30 per person.
<b>- Takeaway fish and chips shops:</b> Around $8–12 per portion, perfect for a quick meal.
Since there's no food along the trail, it's smart to pack water and light snacks.
<h3>Practical Tips for Visitors</h3>
<b>- Clothing: </b>Wear waterproof jackets, warm layers, and sturdy hiking shoes. Even summer can be wet and windy.
<b>- Facilities: </b>Toilets only at the main car park—none along the trail.
<b>- Crowds:</b> Arrive before 9 AM or after 4 PM for a quieter experience.
<b>- Photography:</b> Bring a wide-angle lens for landscapes and arrive during sunrise or sunset for the best light.
<b>- Safety:</b> Stick to marked paths; shortcuts on cliffs can be dangerous.
<h3>Nearby Attractions</h3>
We can make the most of our trip by visiting nearby highlights:
<b>- Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls (10 min north): </b>Free viewpoint over dramatic cliffs and waterfalls.
<b>- Lealt Gorge (15 min north):</b> A short but scenic stop with river views.
<b>- Quiraing (30 min drive north): </b>Another world-famous hike with surreal rock formations.
<h3>Wrapping Up Our Adventure</h3>
Lykkers, the Old Man of Storr isn't just about reaching the top—it's about the journey through Scotland's most enchanting scenery. With free entry, affordable transport, and cozy accommodation in Portree, it's an accessible adventure for all of us. Whether we're chasing sunrise light, exploring nearby cliffs, or relaxing with fresh seafood afterward, this is a day we'll remember forever.
So, shall we plan our hike to the Old Man of Storr together? With the right timing, gear, and spirit of adventure, every step will be worth it.
A Practical Guide to the Old Man of Storr - Isle of Skye
Video by Experience Skye
