Traccia e descrizione da www.alltrails.com

The Old Man of Storr is arguably the most popular hike on the Isle of Skye (the largest island of the Inner Hebrides). The “Old Man” himself is the iconic rock jutting into the air, visible from miles away. Many films have featured this landscape as their backdrop, including The Wicker Man (1973), Prometheus (2012), and Snow White and The Huntsman (2012). The reputation of this trail is well deserved, as it is awe-inspiring and almost otherworldly to see in person. According to legend, the Old Man of Storr was a giant who lived on the Trotternish Ridge. When he was laid to rest upon his death, his thumb—the “Old Man”—remained partially above ground. 

The trail starts from the Old Man of Storr car park along the A855 north of Portree. From here, head through the wooden gate and follow the right-hand path at the junction, curving round and heading north. The path uphill is wide and easy to follow. However, it involves steep sections, rocky paths, and uneven steps, so appropriate footwear is a must. Enjoy the impressive views of the rocky peaks up ahead as you make your way along. You’ll encounter a small pond on the way and eventually you arrive at another split, where you take the path to your left to head up to the Old Man of Storr, which requires some scrambling. 

There are fierce winds at the top, so be prepared and come with proper layering. After exploring the rocks and the fantastic views from the top, continue on the path north, which leads you past Needle Rock (another large pinnacle) and to the NE shoulder of The Storr. This spot is an excellent viewpoint for Needle Rock and the Old Man of Storr with Loch Leathan, the sea, and the Isle of Raasay in the background. Retrace your steps to Needle Rock and continue down the path east of the Old Man to rejoin the original path further down the slope. At the next split, take a right and continue on the rocky and then gravel path back to the car park, passing another small pond on the way. This trail is best done on a dry day with clear visibility. The paths are rocky and can get slippery in wet weather. 

Dogs are welcome, but the route involves some steep, rocky sections, so make sure they are capable of the journey. You’re likely to encounter free-roaming sheep along the way, so leads are needed.