Am Buachaille Sea Stack, Sutherland, Scotland
The 213-foot stack was first climbed in 1968 by the Tom Patey, Ian Clough and John Cleare and requires a quick swim to access the base.
Unlock this article and more benefits with 40% off.
Already have an Outside Account? Sign in
40% Off Outside+.
$4.99/month $2.99/month*
Get the one subscription to fuel all your adventures.
- Map your next adventure with our premium GPS apps: Gaia GPS Premium and Trailforks Pro.
- Read unlimited digital content from 15+ brands, including Outside Magazine, Triathlete, Ski, Trail Runner, and VeloNews.
- Watch 600+ hours of endurance challenges, cycling and skiing action, and travel documentaries.
- Learn from the pros with expert-led online courses.
*Outside memberships are billed annually. Print subscriptions available to U.S. residents only. You may cancel your membership at anytime, but no refunds will be issued for payments already made. Upon cancellation, you will have access to your membership through the end of your paid year. More Details
Along with the Old Man of Hoy and the Old Man of Stoer, Am Buachaille (meaning the shepherd in Scottish Gaelic) is one of the most coveted and iconic Scottish sea stacks, and is generally regarded as the most serious. The 213-foot stack was first climbed in 1968 by the Tom Patey, Ian Clough and John Cleare and requires a quick swim to access the base.
This video features stunning arial footage of the Sutherland coastline all shot by climber and videographer David Linnett.
Also Watch
VIDEO: Babsi Zangerl and Jacopo Larcher Explore Scotland’s Trad Testpieces