Old Man of Stoer

The Old Man of Stoer is a sandstone pillar rising roughly 60 meters from the sea off Scotland's northern coast. The formation has distinct layered bands of rock that have been shaped by wave action and weather over countless years.

The first successful ascent happened in 1966 when a team of mountaineers reached the top for the first time. Since then, climbing this formation has become one of the most sought-after achievements for experienced rock climbers in Scotland.

The name comes from a Gaelic term meaning something like 'old man,' reflecting how people in this region gave human qualities to natural features. Today, visitors from around the world come to witness this distinctive form rising from the sea.

You can reach this spot by following a marked path from the Stoer Head Lighthouse parking area, with the walk taking around 45 minutes. Visit during low tide and calm weather for easier access to the formation.

To climb this formation, experienced mountaineers must perform a daring crossing over a 7-meter water gap using ropes. This dramatic water crossing is a major part of what makes the ascent so memorable and challenging.