Rackwick to Old Man of Hoy — Orkney Islands

The hike from Rackwick to the Old Man of Hoy offers a memorable journey across the dramatic Orkney Islands coastline. This moderate route covers 5.6 miles (9.0 km) with an elevation gain of 612 feet (187 metres), typically taking around 2 hours and 32 minutes to complete. You will start with a steep climb from Rackwick Bay, then traverse moorland with views of red and grey sandstone cliffs, leading you to the iconic Old Man of Hoy sea stack.

When planning your visit, be prepared for unpredictable coastal weather; sturdy footwear and layered clothing are highly recommended. While the main path is often well-maintained, some sections can be rough, rugged, and potentially boggy, especially after rain. The trail is generally well-trodden and easy to follow once you are on it, though multiple paths exist on the return to Rackwick Bay.

The Old Man of Hoy is the undeniable highlight of this trail, an impressive 137-meter (449-foot) sea stack formed from Old Red Sandstone. It is one of the tallest in the United Kingdom and a famous landmark, attracting climbers and photographers alike. As you hike, keep an eye out for diverse seabirds like fulmars and kittiwakes, and you might even spot peregrine falcons or white-tailed eagles.