The Old man of Hoy

Climb the Everest of British sea stacks

Climb the Old Man of Hoy - Orkney

Tackling the old man of Stoer is the ultimate sea stack adventure this remote and iconic sandstone pilar demands bold route finding and a comfident approach to steep weathered rock. With the stack slowly eroding theres a sense of urgency and authenticity a true adventure where the rock won’t be around forever. With a tough scramble and a Tyrollean traverse the challenge starts before you even begin climbing and once you summit the expansive views over the rough sea and rugged coast line make every move worth it.

Your Climbing Itinerary

Walk-in + scramble

Meet at the Stoer Lighthouse car park where we will do a kit check and briefing before heading out along the coastal cliff path towards the Old Man.

A scramble leads us down to the Tyrollean traverse that bridges the sea between the stack and the mainland. We move equipment and climbers across and set ourselves up on the first pitch.

The pitches and abseil

Three pitches lead up to the top of the sea stack.

Expedition Safety

Your Safety is Our Top Priority on Every Trip

At Nordur, the safety and well-being of our adventurers are paramount. We are committed to providing not only a thrilling experience but also a secure one.

Our expert local guides are highly trained and experienced in wilderness navigation, emergency first aid, and risk assessment. They possess extensive knowledge of the local terrain and weather patterns, which allows them to make informed decisions on-the-go.

Before we start the expedition, you’ll be given a thorough briefing covering safety protocols, route information and emergency procedures.

We only use the very best equipment that meets international safety standards. This includes high-quality packrafts, personal location devices, GPS devices and communication tools like walkie-talkies. Your guide will go through every piece of equipment in detail with you during the expedition. 

All of our expeditions are done in small groups. Not only does this give you a more personal experience, it enhances our ability to monitor and maintain safety throughout the expedition. We’re also prepared for any citation that might arise. Our guides carry satellite phones and all routes are planned with evacuation points, in case a rapid departure from the wilderness is needed. 

Ready to explore the Scottish wilderness and experience an adventure of a lifetime

Ready for a trip of a lifetime? Reserve your space on our next expedition below.

But don’t take our word for it have a look below at the media reel that shows you some of the highlights on offer during the week.

Old Man of Hoy Photo Gallery

The detail

1:1 - £280 1:2 - £330

  • Guiding for the day

    All technical equipment

  • Full waterproofs

    Spare belay jacket

    Warm hat and gloves

    map and compass(if you have them)

    Head torch

    Personal medication

    Water and food (long day pack lots)

  • This is a bespoke product due to the nature of the day.

Interested all three stacks in one expedition?

We also offer a LITE version of this expedition, where you can come along and enjoy the paddles and journeys through the valleys and lochs.

For more information on our LITE Fannichs & Fisherfields Expedition, contact us. 

Giving You Unmatched Expertise and Personalisation on Your Trip

Why Choose Nordur for Your Scottish Highland Adventure

Local knowledge

Nordur stands apart in the world of adventure travel with its deep-rooted local expertise. Led by our founder, Jamie, a seasoned guide with over 17 years experience, and is not only a local but a huge enthusiast of the Scottish wilderness, Nordur offers an authentic experience that larger, outsourced tours simply cannot match. We know every hidden trail and secret spot that makes Scotland unique, offering you a richer, more immersive experience.

Sustainability and Respect

At Nordur, we are deeply committed to preserving the stunning landscapes we explore. We practice Leave No Trace principles and engage in efforts to maintain the natural beauty and integrity of the Scottish wilderness. Choosing Nordur means supporting eco-friendly tourism and contributing to the conservation of these magnificent areas for future generations.

Tailored Adventures

Each expedition is carefully crafted to match the desires and abilities of our guests. Nordur specialises in creating personalised experiences that cater to your interests, whether you're seeking thrilling mountain ascents or serene moments by secluded lochs. Our small group sizes ensure that your journey is attentive and responsive to your pace and preferences.

All-Inclusive Expeditions

From high-quality camping gear to expert navigation and safety equipment, everything you need for your journey is provided. Our packrafts are state-of-the-art and we provide you with full training, ensuring that you can navigate the lochs with ease and safety. With Nordur, you can focus fully on your adventure, knowing that all logistical details are expertly handled.

Choosing Nordur means embarking on an expedition where every detail is designed to offer a profound connection with Scotland's natural wonders and cultural heritage. It’s more than just a trek —it’s an expedition into the heart of the wild, guided by those who call it home. 

Join us for an unforgettable adventure that pushes your limits and takes you beyond the ordinary, into the extraordinary landscapes of the Scottish Highlands.

Ready for an adventure?

When you come on an expedition with Nordur, it’s not just a trip; it’s a pivotal life experience. 

Spaces are limited to maintain the quality and intimacy of the expedition. Reserve your place on this extraordinary adventure today and discover why Nordur's Fannichs and Fisherfield expedition is the ultimate Scottish highland adventure.

Not sure this adventure is right for you? Contact us to discuss our LITE version of this trip.

We also offer a whole range of other bucket list adventures, both in Scotland and Internationally. Check out our other expeditions here or give us a call to discuss your perfect adventure.

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