Cume do Storr

The Storr itself often gets a little upstaged by the phenomenal rock pinnacle lying in its lee – the Old Man of Storr – but the mountain itself is just as epic. This astounding summit lies on Scotland’s Isle of Skye in the Trotternish Peninsula and provides fantastic views over the sea to mainland Scotland, along the Trotternish and across the island. 

Rising to 2,359 feet (719 m), the Storr is hardly one of the country’s highest mountains but its savage eastern face and location next to the Sound of Raasay makes it look much higher than it is. The Trotternish is a terrain of mountainous landslips and the Storr reveals one such phenomenon. Its own landslip—the Sanctuary—lies immediately east, below the summit, and features pinnacles and other unbelievable rocky features. 

Ascend one of Skye’s most impressive mountain landscapes

Hiking the Storr is a rewarding challenge and both main trails present some straightforward scrambling and steep sections. It’s not a mountain for total beginners nor young children and it’s wise to only ascend in only good conditions. The final section to the rocky summit is pathless and challenging to navigate in poor visibility. 

There are several car parks on the A835 beneath the mountain, which get busy in holiday seasons thanks to the Old Man of Storr’s popularity. When you reach the top, a clear day will provide vistas that are absolutely astounding. To the west, the Sound of Raasay and the island of Rona foreground Scotland’s tremendous western highlands. The Trotternish range runs north-south, and you can look right along this ancient ridgeline. To the west, look across Skye to the Sea of Hebrides beyond. 

Only experienced winter mountaineers should brave the Storr in snowy conditions and you should always keep an eye on the weather regardless of when you explore the region. This is a serious mountain and the conditions can change quickly.