Formed by a massive landslide in the days of yore, the Old Man of Storr rock formation is a sight to behold. The landmark on the Isle of Skye sits majestically atop Trotternish Ridge. Many legends surround the formation, making it an enticing place to visit.
Videos by InspireMore
The “Old Man” is the tallest peak in the formation at 160 meters. The shorter pillars are the “Storr” and surround the pinnacle. “Storr” is Norse for “Great Man.” One of the legends about the formation is that a giant lived on Trotternish Ridge. Following his death, he was buried on the hillside with his thumb remaining above ground to mark his grave. This story has more colorful versions, but we’ll stick with the thumb.
Another legend involves an older couple who lived on the mountain. As the two grew older, the trip home became increasingly difficult. Her husband carried her when the old woman could no longer make it. When that became too difficult, he wished his wife could go everywhere he went. Nearby faeries overheard the wish. In a genuine faerie manner, they granted the old man’s wish by turning the humans into the rock formation.
The elevation over the Sound of Rasaay is over 2,300 feet. Visitors can hike to the Old Man of Storr formation, but the terrain can be steep. If you would like to see what the hike is like, this video offers a great look at the scenery around the legendary outcropping.
The Old Man Of Storr Is A Favorite Movie Landscape
They call the area surrounding the Old Man of Storr the “Quiraing.” It may seem familiar because it is in many famous movies, including “The Wicker Man (1973), Prometheus (2012), Snow White and the Huntsman (2012), King Arthur: Legend of the Sword (2017) and Transformers: The Last Knight (2017).”
If your travels take you to the Isle of Skye, at least look up at the Old Man of Storr if you can’t make the hike. The panoramic views of the Isle are impressive from any vantage.
Please share if visiting the Isle of Skye is on your bucket list.
You can find the source of this story’s featured image here.
Want to be happier in just 5 minutes a day? Sign up for Morning Smile and join over 455,000+ people who start each day with good news.
