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Old Man of Stoer Hike

The Old Man of Stoer hike takes you along the wild coastline of the Assynt region to a spectacular 60-meter-high rock stack that rises out of the waves and is battered by the Atlantic Ocean.

Starting from the Stoer Head Lighthouse, this coastal loop offers superb panoramic views of the rugged Sutherland coastline: steep cliffs, abundant birdlife, and the iconic silhouettes of the Assynt Mountains are visible along the route.

Difficulties of the hike

This seven-kilometer loop has no technical difficulties and a total elevation gain of only 280 meters. The route mainly follows grassy terrain that is sometimes uneven. The path gradually fades away, leaving only sheep tracks, especially after the first viewpoint of the Old Man of Stoer, where most walkers stop.

The trail becomes difficult to see at times, so progress is made by following the coastline. On the way back, the ascent to the 161-meter-high summit of Sìthean Mòr crosses a few marshy areas that are best avoided.

What you'll love

The imposing sight of the Old Man of Stoer: A 60-meter-high pillar of Torridonian sandstone rising majestically above the Atlantic Ocean.
The magnificent coastal panoramas along the route.
The seabird colonies: The cliffs of the Point of Stoer are home to many species, such as northern fulmars and guillemots.