Durness Hotel Guide - Smoo Cave hotels in Durness, United Kingdom.

Top reasons to visit Smoo Cave

• Guided Cave Tours: Explore the stunning geological features and impressive formations within Smoo Cave, guided by knowledgeable locals.
• Picturesque Beaches: Relax on the spectacular nearby beaches, perfect for sunbathing or a refreshing swim.
• Whale Watching: Enjoy boat rides along the beautiful coastline, offering opportunities to spot majestic whales.
• Outdoor Adventures: Discover the dramatic capes and rugged mountains, ideal for hiking and exploring the great outdoors.
• Welcoming Accommodation: Choose from a variety of charming hotels and budget-friendly hostels with local hospitality.

Find great hotels near Smoo Cave

Discover a variety of accommodation options near Smoo Cave, Durness, from charming hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Whether you seek a pet-friendly retreat or a comfortable base to explore the stunning landscapes, you'll find suitable choices. With numerous Durness hotels available, you can enjoy scenic views and local hospitality, making your stay memorable. Don't forget to check hotel reviews to guide your selection for the perfect getaway.

• The Lazy Crofter Bunkhouse - Hostel: Nestled just 1.6km from Smoo Cave, The Lazy Crofter Bunkhouse is a welcoming 4-star hostel that caters to backpackers and adventure seekers. Its rustic charm is complemented by shared and private rooms that offer a cosy atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a communal kitchen, lounge area, and outdoor seating, perfect for mingling with fellow travellers. With a focus on a communal experience, this hostel is ideal for those looking to connect with others while exploring the stunning landscapes of Durness.
• Durness Youth Hostel: Located a mere 161m from Smoo Cave, Durness Youth Hostel is a budget-friendly option with a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10. This hostel is particularly suited for pet owners, as it welcomes dogs and provides amenities such as food and water bowls. The property features a communal kitchen, dining area, and a comfortable lounge, ensuring a relaxed stay. Its emphasis on affordability and a friendly atmosphere makes it an excellent choice for travellers seeking a charming and sociable environment.
• The Tongue Hotel: Situated 19.3km from Smoo Cave, The Tongue Hotel is a charming 3-star accommodation that combines traditional hospitality with modern comforts. This hotel is pet-friendly, allowing dogs on-site, and features well-appointed rooms with stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Guests can enjoy a delightful dining experience at the in-house restaurant, along with a cosy bar for relaxation. With its tranquil setting and warm atmosphere, The Tongue Hotel is a suitable retreat for those looking to unwind after a day of exploration.

Where to stay near Smoo Cave

Exploring the stunning Smoo Cave in Durness offers a remarkable journey through natural beauty and scenic landscapes. Visitors can enjoy the picturesque Allt Smoo river, marvel at the impressive cave formations, and relax on the spectacular nearby beaches. The friendly locals enhance the experience, making it a perfect destination for families, including dogs, to enjoy the outdoors together. Capture unforgettable images of this enchanting region and immerse yourself in its tranquil atmosphere.

• Talmine: Located 17.7km from Smoo Cave, Talmine is a charming village known for its stunning outdoor experiences and breathtaking scenery. Visitors flock to this coastal haven primarily between June and August, drawn by its beautiful beaches and serene waters. The area offers excellent hiking trails that wind through the picturesque landscape, providing ample opportunities for exploration and photography. Talmine's proximity to local landmarks, such as the beach and nearby rivers, makes it an ideal spot for family outings and eco-friendly adventures.
• Durness: Durness, the home of Smoo Cave, is a vibrant village that attracts a steady stream of visitors throughout the year, particularly during the summer months. Known for its outdoor activities and family-friendly atmosphere, Durness offers a range of attractions, including enchanting beaches and serene parks. The village serves as a gateway to various hiking trails and eco-friendly excursions, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers. With local shops to explore and the magnificent Smoo Cave just a stone's throw away, Durness is an unforgettable experience for all types of travellers.
• Tongue: Situated 19.3km from Smoo Cave, Tongue is a picturesque village that appeals to outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. The village sees a peak in visitors from April through July, who come to enjoy the stunning landscapes and eco-friendly adventures. Tongue boasts a variety of activities, including scenic hiking trails and golfing opportunities. With beautiful beaches and parks nearby, it offers a tranquil escape into nature. The captivating surroundings and welcoming community make Tongue a delightful stop on your Scottish adventure.

Things to do in Smoo Cave

Shopping

Smoo Cave offers a unique shopping experience with local gift shops nearby showcasing handmade crafts and Scottish souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, explore Durness village for further options, including the Durness Craft Village, where you can find artisanal goods and local delicacies.

Recreation

Explore the serene surroundings of Smoo Cave, where you can enjoy guided tours of the stunning limestone formations. Nearby, the Durness Beach offers a peaceful spot for meditation and leisurely walks along the sandy shores, allowing for a refreshing connection with nature.

Adventure

Smoo Cave offers a captivating blend of exploration and adventure, featuring stunning rock formations and a dramatic sea entrance. Guided boat tours allow visitors to navigate the cave's waterways, while nearby coastal walks provide breathtaking views of the rugged landscape and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Nightlife

In Durness, the nearby Smoo Cave offers a unique atmosphere, where guided evening tours allow you to explore its stunning natural beauty. For a lively experience, local pubs feature traditional music sessions and a warm, inviting ambiance, perfect for mingling with locals over a drink.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Smoo Cave

To save money on your visit to Smoo Cave, consider travelling during the cheaper months of February to March and December, avoiding peak times like May and July to August. Book your hotel about a month in advance or check Expedia for last-minute deals. Wednesdays typically offer the lowest rates, while Sundays are the most expensive. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter by budget and sort results for the best prices. Additionally, consider package deals that combine accommodation with flights and activities for further savings.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Smoo Cave are February to March and December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May and July to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Smoo Cave is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Smoo Cave is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay around Smoo Cave is Sunday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, including your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To discover the most affordable prices and best deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your hotel stay at Smoo Cave with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Smoo Cave

When visiting Smoo Cave in Durness, Scotland, you can enjoy a variety of attractions, including stunning beaches, dramatic capes, and rugged mountains. This region is perfect for those seeking outdoor experiences and breathtaking scenery. Be sure to explore the fascinating Smoo Cave itself, renowned for its impressive sea caves, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty that surrounds this captivating location.

• Cape Wrath: Experience the rugged beauty of Cape Wrath, located 17.7km from Smoo Cave. This stunning cape features breathtaking coastal scenery and serene beaches, ideal for those seeking a peaceful escape amidst nature.
• Durness Beach: Just 805m from Smoo Cave, Durness Beach boasts soft sand and crystal-clear waters. The beach vibe is perfect for a relaxing stroll or a picnic while enjoying the fresh sea air.
• Ben Hope: Situated 17.7km from Smoo Cave, Ben Hope offers an adventurous climb for outdoor enthusiasts. The mountain presents magnificent views and a chance to immerse yourself in Scotland's wild landscapes.

Best time to go to Smoo Cave

The best time to visit Smoo Cave can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Smoo Cave falls in August, when visitor numbers are high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Smoo Cave falls in February, visitor numbers are low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	42.3°F (5.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
February	42.1°F (5.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
March	43.0°F (6.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
April	45.3°F (7.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	48.6°F (9.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Slightly High
June	52.7°F (11.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	55.4°F (13.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
August	55.6°F (13.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Slightly High
September	54.0°F (12.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
October	50.2°F (10.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	46.6°F (8.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
December	43.3°F (6.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Smoo Cave

To visit Smoo Cave, the nearest major airports are Inverness (INV), Kirkwall (KOI), and Stornoway (SYY). Inverness Airport is approximately 120.7km away, with excellent hotel options such as The Factor's House, a 5-star B&B 14.5km from the airport, and the 4-star Golf View Hotel & Spa, located 11.3km away. Kirkwall Airport is about 112.7km from Smoo Cave, with nearby accommodations like the 4-star Hildeval B&B, just 4.8km away. Stornoway Airport is the closest at 101.4km, featuring hotels such as the 4-star Cabarfeidh Hotel, situated 3.2km from the airport. Each location offers convenient access to transportation services for easy travel to Smoo Cave.