ONE of Skye's best-known landscapes is on track to set a new record for visitors in a post-Covid pandemic high.
According to the Highland Council report visitors to Storr are forecast to reach a total of around 300,000 this year, which is nine per cent higher than last year.
Visitor numbers across the island have steadily been increasing since the pandemic, and the local authorities have taken measures at some of the most popular locations to help ease the pressures of the growing demand.
A new visitor centre, parking and two electric vehicle charging points were opened over the summer at the famous landscape to help try and cope with the increasing number of visitors.
The Old Man of Storr is among some of the most iconic mountains in Scotland as the distinct rock face and pinnacles were formed millions of years ago after an ancient landslip.
Legends vary around the “Old Man” as some locals believe the pinnacle is the thumb of a giant who is now buried underground, while others say the face of an old man can be seen in the rock face.
The council's report said it was one of the region's most popular destinations as it has featured in cult Hollywood films like the 2012 sci-fi thriller Prometheus and the 1973 horror The Wickerman.
The local authority said the new dedicated website and social media accounts help to provide information on the area's geology and wildlife, as well as providing advice on busier times for those who wish to visit.
In the report to next week's Isle of Skye and Raasay Area Committee, council officers said: “Both the website and social media spread awareness of The Storr, enable visitors to better plan their trip with access to key information such as path conditions or weather forecasts, and promote education specifically around local history, geology, culture, and Gaelic.”
