The Old Man of Stoer: Scotland’s Iconic Torridonian Sea Stack
A towering Torridonian sandstone sea stack on Scotland’s wild northwest coast, famed for dramatic hikes, climbing, and stunning wildlife encounters.
The Old Man of Stoer is a striking 60-metre-high Torridonian sandstone sea stack located on the rugged northwest coast of Scotland near the villages of Culkein and Stoer. Renowned for its dramatic coastal scenery and popular with climbers, this natural monument offers challenging hikes along wild, often muddy paths with spectacular views of the Minch strait and abundant wildlife including seabirds and marine mammals.
A brief summary to Old Man of Stoer
- Lairg, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear sturdy waterproof boots and consider trekking poles due to muddy and uneven terrain.
- Approach from Stoer Head Lighthouse for the best access and parking facilities.
- Exercise caution near cliff edges and marshy areas with deep holes; keep dogs on a lead.
- Bring binoculars or a camera for spotting seabirds and marine mammals in the area.
- Climbers should be prepared for a Tyrolean traverse to reach the base of the stack and varying route difficulties.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving is the most practical way to reach the Old Man of Stoer. From Ullapool, the journey takes about 1 hour 15 minutes via the A837 and B869 roads. Parking is available near Stoer Head Lighthouse at no charge. Roads are narrow and winding; drive carefully especially in poor weather.
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Walking
The hike from Stoer Head Lighthouse to the Old Man of Stoer takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours round trip. The terrain is rough, muddy, and uneven with some pathless sections. Suitable for experienced walkers with good footwear; caution advised near cliff edges.
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Public Transport + Walking
Limited public transport serves the wider Sutherland area. Visitors can take a bus to Ullapool and arrange local taxi services to Stoer Lighthouse. From there, the walk to the stack is about 45 minutes one-way over challenging terrain. Taxi fares vary but expect around £30-£50 GBP each way.
Old Man of Stoer location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Old Man of Stoer
Geological Majesty on Scotland’s Wild Coast
The Old Man of Stoer rises 60 metres (200 feet) above the sea as a towering sea stack composed of ancient Torridonian sandstone, a rock formation dating back hundreds of millions of years. Situated on the northwest coast of Sutherland, Scotland, it stands sentinel close to the villages of Culkein and Stoer, facing the turbulent waters of The Minch—the strait separating the Scottish mainland and the Outer Hebrides.Challenging Terrain and Hiking Experience
Access to the Old Man of Stoer is typically from the nearby Stoer Head Lighthouse, with a rugged walking route that traverses high moorland and coastal cliffs. The path is often muddy and uneven, requiring sturdy footwear and sometimes trekking poles for stability. The hike offers breathtaking views but demands caution near sheer cliff edges and marshy patches where deep holes can form. The round-trip walk usually takes between 1.5 and 2 hours, with options to ascend to a trig point for panoramic vistas.A Legendary Climbing Destination
The Old Man of Stoer is a celebrated climbing spot, attracting enthusiasts with its height and accessibility. First ascended in 1966, it features several routes of varying difficulty, requiring a Tyrolean traverse to reach the base of the stack. The climb is steeped in climbing lore and continues to challenge adventurers, including notable recent ascents by young climbers. The surrounding cliffs also host nesting seabirds, adding to the area's natural allure.Rich Wildlife and Natural Environment
The sea stack and surrounding cliffs are home to diverse wildlife, particularly seabirds such as northern fulmars, great skuas (bonxies), guillemots, razorbills, and peregrines. The coastal waters are frequented by marine mammals including dolphins, porpoises, and seals, making the area a rewarding spot for wildlife watchers. The natural setting combines dramatic geology with vibrant ecosystems.Historical and Cultural Significance
The Old Man of Stoer not only captivates with its natural beauty but also holds cultural significance as part of Scotland’s rugged heritage. The area’s maritime history includes shipwrecks near the stack, and the site has featured in television programs highlighting Scotland’s geological wonders. Its iconic silhouette is a symbol of the wild Highlands and a testament to the enduring power of nature.Visitor Considerations and Amenities
While there are no public transport options directly to the site, parking is available near the Stoer Lighthouse. Visitors should prepare for rough, sometimes pathless terrain and variable weather conditions. Facilities are minimal, with occasional food trucks near the lighthouse. The walk is best suited for those comfortable with uneven ground and exposed coastal environments, offering an unforgettable encounter with Scotland’s dramatic seascape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Stoer Lighthouse
2.6 km
Experience a unique self-catering lighthouse stay with panoramic coastal views on Scotland’s remote and rugged Stoer Head.
Butt of Lewis Lighthouse
58.5 km
Scotland’s northernmost red-brick lighthouse, a historic beacon amid rugged cliffs and wild Atlantic winds on the Isle of Lewis.
Walkhighlands
70.3 km
Explore Scotland step by step with Walkhighlands, your comprehensive guide to hiking and walking routes across the Highlands and beyond.
historic scotland
71.7 km
Explore the historical essence of The Blackhouse in Arnol, Isle of Lewis, where traditional Scottish life comes alive amidst stunning landscapes.
Ardgay Bespoke Tours
73.7 km
Experience the Scottish Highlands like never before with personalized tours that celebrate nature, history, and culture in Ardgay.
Highlands Scotland
79.0 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage of the Highlands of Scotland, a must-visit destination for adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike.
Calanais Standing Stones
80.1 km
Discover the ancient mystique of the Calanais Standing Stones, an extraordinary historical landmark on the Isle of Lewis, steeped in culture and beauty.
Old Ruins
83.2 km
Discover the haunting Old Ruins near Portree, where ancient history and rugged coastal beauty converge on the Isle of Skye.
Rubha Hunish
84.2 km
Explore Rubha Hunish, the northern jewel of the Isle of Skye, where breathtaking views and rich history come together in a stunning coastal experience.
Ardvourlie Woodland
86.3 km
Explore the stunning Ardvourlie Woodland on the Isle of Harris, a nature lover's paradise filled with lush landscapes and abundant wildlife.
Duke Of Sutherland Monument
86.6 km
A towering Highland landmark blending breathtaking views with the complex legacy of the Duke of Sutherland’s era.
Eilean Glas Lighthouse
86.7 km
A historic white lighthouse on the wild northern tip of the Isle of Scalpay, offering sweeping sea views and a taste of remote Hebridean life.
The Brother's Point
87.3 km
Explore Brother's Point on the Isle of Skye: A breathtaking coastal destination rich in wildlife and stunning landscapes.
Rogie Falls
87.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Rogie Falls, a stunning waterfall in the Scottish Highlands, perfect for hiking and nature photography.
Fyrish Monument
88.0 km
Historic stone monument atop Fyrish Hill blending Scottish resilience with colonial Indian inspiration and offering stunning Highland views.
Unmissable attractions to see
Clashnessie Falls
6.3 km
Discover the tranquil 15-meter Clashnessie Falls and its wild Highland surroundings, where rugged beauty meets serene coastal charm.
Clachtoll Broch
7.6 km
Explore Clachtoll Broch, a remarkable Iron Age drystone tower on Scotland’s coast, preserved by fire and time with stunning sea views.
Clachtoll Beach
8.4 km
Discover the serene white sands and turquoise waters of Clachtoll Beach, a pristine Highland paradise rich in wildlife and ancient history.
Hermit's Castle
11.0 km
Discover the enigmatic Hermit's Castle, a tiny Brutalist bothy blending into Scotland’s rugged coast with a mysterious story and stunning views.
Achmelvich Beach
11.1 km
Discover Achmelvich Beach, a tranquil white-sand paradise with turquoise waters and rugged Highland beauty on Scotland’s iconic North Coast 500.
Achmelvich Bay
11.1 km
Discover Achmelvich Bay’s pristine white sands, vibrant watersports, and breathtaking Highland scenery on Scotland’s northern coast.
Assynt Viewpoint
19.4 km
Dramatic Highland peaks frame an ancient loch and castle ruins in Scotland's remote geological wonderland.
Kylesku Bridge
21.0 km
A visually striking curved concrete bridge in the Scottish Highlands offering stunning views and rich history along the North Coast 500.
North West Highlands Geopark
21.9 km
Explore ancient landscapes and geological wonders at Scotland’s North West Highlands UNESCO Global Geopark, where Earth’s history comes alive.
Loch Assynt
22.8 km
A breathtaking freshwater loch in the Scottish Highlands, framed by rugged peaks and historic castle ruins, perfect for nature and history lovers.
Allt Chranaidh Waterfall
23.3 km
Discover the dramatic beauty and serene wilderness of Allt Chranaidh Waterfall, a hidden gem cascading through the Scottish Highlands.
Ardvreck Castle
25.1 km
Explore the haunting ruins of Ardvreck Castle, a dramatic Highland landmark steeped in history, legend, and stunning lochside views.
Ardvreck Castle Waterfall
25.1 km
Discover the haunting ruins and cascading waterfall of Ardvreck Castle, where Scottish history meets breathtaking Highland nature.
Polin Beach
29.5 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Polin Beach, a secluded golden sandy cove framed by dunes in the wild Scottish Highlands.
North West Sutherland National Scenic Area
30.5 km
Explore ancient landscapes, rich wildlife, and rugged beauty in Scotland’s North West Sutherland National Scenic Area.
Essential places to dine
Lochinver Larder
14.5 km
Savor handcrafted Highland pies amid stunning Scottish scenery in the welcoming village of Lochinver.
Delilah's
14.9 km
A lively, family-friendly Highland restaurant serving fresh, locally sourced seafood with stunning sea views and a buzzing atmosphere.
An Cala Café
15.1 km
Fresh seafood and hearty Scottish fare served year-round in a cozy café and bunkhouse nestled in Lochinver’s scenic Culag Park.
Eddrachilles Hotel
16.2 km
Charming Highland hotel with stunning sea views, authentic hospitality, and refined Scottish dining on the shores of Badcall Bay.
Scourie Hotel
16.9 km
A charming Highland fishing hotel on Scotland’s northwest coast, blending rustic tradition with cozy comfort and excellent local cuisine.
Shorehouse Restaurant
20.0 km
A cozy family-run seafood haven in Tarbet offering fresh catches, stunning Highland coast views, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Kylesku Hotel
21.3 km
Experience Highland charm and fresh seafood with breathtaking views over Loch Glencoul at the welcoming Kylesku Hotel.
The Dipping Lugger
42.7 km
An intimate, Michelin-recognized restaurant in an 18th-century harbour manse, serving inventive tasting menus of hyper-local seafood and game in the heart of Ullapool.
The Crask Inn
51.6 km
A remote Highland inn where simple rooms, hearty home-cooked meals, and genuine hospitality meet wild moorland and Munro country.
The Breakwater
55.6 km
Coastal café with stunning harbour views, fresh homemade fare, and warm hospitality in the heart of Port of Ness, Isle of Lewis.
Wobbly Dog of Lewis
56.2 km
A cozy, dog-friendly tearoom at the Isle of Lewis’ northwestern tip, blending homemade treats with local crafts and warm island hospitality.
Eleven Restaurant & Bar
58.8 km
A welcoming bar and grill in Stornoway offering classic dishes, seasonal specials, and a cozy atmosphere from morning till night.
Caladh Inn
58.8 km
Comfortable and welcoming inn in central Stornoway, blending local charm with convenient access to the Isle of Lewis’s highlights.
The Park Guest House & Restaurant
58.8 km
Charming central guest house in Stornoway offering cozy rooms, local dining, and easy access to Isle of Lewis attractions.
La Balena - Italian Restaurant
58.9 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with fresh Hebridean seafood in a warm, family-run setting at La Balena in Stornoway.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
London Stores
30.3 km
Discover local flavors at London Stores, the premier supermarket in Lairg, blending quality groceries with a warm, inviting atmosphere for every traveler.
The Captain's Cabin
42.7 km
Discover a cozy treasure trove of Scottish gifts, crafts, and friendly service at Ullapool’s charming Captain's Cabin.
Cross Stores
57.4 km
Island butcher and grocer serving the Hebridean community with fresh provisions and artisanal prepared foods.
The Original Factory Shop (Co-op Stornoway)
58.8 km
Affordable brand-name fashion, beauty, and homeware all under one roof in Stornoway’s popular department store.
Sileas She-Liss
58.8 km
Discover unique clothing and accessories at Sileas She-Liss, a charming boutique in Stornoway that celebrates local craftsmanship and style.
Bayhead Gift House
59.0 km
Explore the charming Bayhead Gift House in Stornoway for unique local crafts and souvenirs that celebrate the rich heritage of the Hebrides.
Salka – Gift Shop on the Rock
59.0 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and exquisite SeaGlass jewellery inspired by the Isle of Lewis at Salka – Gift Shop on the Rock.
Celtic Clothing
59.1 km
Experience authentic Scottish heritage with bespoke kilts and Harris Tweed craftsmanship at Celtic Clothing in Stornoway.
Hebridean Gifts
59.1 km
Discover authentic Hebridean crafts, jewellery, and souvenirs in the heart of Stornoway’s vibrant artisan scene.
The Hebridean Hobby Centre
59.1 km
A cozy craft shop in Stornoway showcasing handmade Hebridean crafts, textiles, and local art – perfect for unique island souvenirs and creative inspiration.
Bonmarché
59.1 km
Bonmarché Stornoway offers stylish, affordable women's fashion in sizes 10-28, conveniently located on Cromwell Street in the town centre.
Peacocks
59.1 km
Affordable fashion for the whole family in the heart of Stornoway’s shopping district.
Nicolson & Co Ltd
59.1 km
Stornoway's trusted newsagent serving the Isle of Lewis since 1978.
Sardar & Sons
59.2 km
Discover quality clothing and distinctive hats for special occasions at Sardar & Sons, Stornoway’s trusted local fashion destination.
Tweedtastic
59.2 km
Authentic Harris Tweed and wool creations crafted with island heritage and warmth in the heart of Stornoway.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Rip
50.7 km
A cozy bar on the Isle of Lewis where local culture, craft beers, and scenic beauty create a warm retreat for travelers and locals alike.
Old Barn Bar
57.6 km
Authentic crofters’ barn pub with rustic charm, local flavors, and warm hospitality on the Isle of Lewis.
Cross Inn
57.6 km
A cozy, characterful inn and pub offering warm hospitality, excellent local food, and comfortable stays on the Isle of Lewis.
Lewis & Harris Rangers Supporters Club
58.7 km
A spirited social hub and the world’s largest Rangers supporters club, uniting fans in Stornoway with football passion and community warmth.
Artizan
59.1 km
Artizan blends local flavors, creative cocktails, and unique crafts in a warm, welcoming café and event space in the heart of Stornoway.
McNeills
59.1 km
Experience Stornoway’s vibrant live music and warm hospitality at McNeills, a historic bar with authentic Hebridean spirit.
Stornoway Distillers @ The Fank
59.1 km
Experience authentic Hebridean flavors and craft gin in the heart of Stornoway’s vibrant culinary scene.
The Criterion Bar
59.2 km
A cozy, traditional Scottish bar in Stornoway known for its friendly service, quality drinks, and authentic Hebridean atmosphere.
THE HARBOUR BAR
59.3 km
A warm, inviting bar in Stornoway offering local brews, hearty Scottish fare, and live music in the heart of the Isle of Lewis.
The Badachro Inn
65.7 km
Coastal Highland inn renowned for fresh seafood, stunning bay views, and warm, rustic charm in the heart of Badachro.
Beinn Bar
82.0 km
Cozy up with Scotland’s finest whiskies, ales, and gins in a historic Highland bar nestled within The Torridon estate.
Nanny's
83.9 km
Cozy cafe in Shieldaig serving homemade soups, local seafood, and fresh coffee in a charming Highland village setting.
Platform 1864
92.7 km
Historic charm meets contemporary dining at Platform 1864, Tain’s beloved bar and restaurant in a stunning old train station.
Isle of Harris Distillery
92.8 km
Discover the Isle of Harris Distillery, where tradition meets artistry in every sip of exquisite whisky on Scotland's breathtaking shores.
Ardhasaig House Hotel and Restaurant
94.0 km
A tranquil Hebridean escape offering cozy rooms, exquisite local cuisine, and stunning mountain and sea views on the Isle of Harris.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Scaladale Centre
86.2 km
A premier outdoor adventure centre and hostel on Isle of Harris, offering year-round activities and comfortable group accommodation in stunning Hebridean surroundings.
The Ross Shire Club
92.9 km
Experience Dingwall’s vibrant nightlife with a welcoming vibe, BYOB policy, and lively social scene at The Ross Shire Club.
Number 5
93.4 km
Charming stone cottage hostel with sea views, cozy fires, kayak rentals, and warm hospitality on the scenic Isle of Harris.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Adventurous
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
