Rackwick to Old Man of Hoy — Orkney Islands
Rackwick to Old Man of Hoy — Orkney Islands
4.9
(30)
231
hikers
Rackwick to Old Man of Hoy — Orkney Islands
02:32
9.03km
190m
Hiking
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…
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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1.82 km
View of Rackwick Bay
Highlight • Trail
Translated by Google •
Tip by
4.51 km
Old Man of Hoy
Highlight • Climb
Translated by Google •
Tip by
9.03 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
7.24 km
1.77 km
Surfaces
8.95 km
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (120 m)
Lowest point (10 m)
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Weather
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Wednesday 27 May
15°C
8°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 33.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
The footpath to the Old Man of Hoy is not very difficult, climbing steeply at times from the secluded pretty bay of Rackwick, then up the heather-clad escarpment to the most famous rock pillar in the country. Only when you reach the top of the cliff can you fully enjoy the view of the Old Man of Hoy. It's a walk there and back.