The Old Man of Storr from Portree

The Old Man of Storr is the rock pinnacle everyone photographs on Skye, and from Portree it is one of the easiest big days out. We are a five-minute walk from the centre of Portree, and most of our guests walk it as their first or second day.

How far is it from Portree?

About 11 km (under 7 miles) north of Portree on the A855, around 14 minutes by car. The car park is beside the main road, just north of Loch Leathan.

Where to park

There is a car park of about 140 spaces next to the road, with a toilet. At the time of writing it costs £6 for up to 6 hours and £7 for up to 12 hours; the machines take coins or contactless card. Please do not park on the verges or in passing places.

The walk

• Distance: 3.8 km, out and back on the same path.
• Time: about 1 hour 15 minutes of walking, plus stops. Allow roughly 45 minutes up to the foot of the Old Man and 30 to 40 minutes back.
• Path: a good gravel path with some steep sections and rough stone steps that need care when wet. The top section can be muddy.
• Stay on the path. Rockfall is a risk higher up, and some areas are netted off to protect the ground from erosion.
• Close the gates behind you, keep dogs on leads, and watch for free-roaming livestock.

Weather and timing

It is walkable in most weather, but in mist and heavy rain the upper section is harder, and the view you came for may be hidden. Check the forecast on the morning. The Old Man is very popular, with over 220,000 visitors a year. Our advice is to go in the morning or during the day, in good light, rather than late in the day.

Without a car

The Stagecoach 57A and 57C buses stop nearby, but they are infrequent, so check the timetable before you set off.

Staying with us

Breakfast is laid out from 7am for you to help yourself, so you can fill up and be on the path early. Our five rooms each have a private en-suite bathroom, and booking direct costs no more than the booking sites. See the rooms or check dates.

More ideas for the island, with drive times, are on What to do on Skye from Portree.