Durness Smoo Cave Hotels

Top reasons to visit Smoo Cave

• Stunning Natural Beauty: Smoo Cave is surrounded by dramatic cliffs, stunning beaches, and majestic mountains, offering breathtaking scenery.
• Unique Cave Exploration: The massive cavern invites adventurers to explore its fascinating formations and the flowing Allt Smoo River.
• Rich Historical Insights: Engage in archaeological digs and investigations that reveal the region's intriguing history.
• Outdoor Activities: Enjoy whale watching, swimming, and ferry rides in the beautiful coastal area.
• Welcoming Community: Friendly locals enhance the charm of Durness, providing a delightful experience for visitors.

Find great hotels near Smoo Cave

Explore a range of accommodation options near Smoo Cave in Durness, Scotland, including cosy bed and breakfast establishments and budget-friendly hostels. Enjoy pet-friendly services tailored for travellers with furry companions. Whether you seek easy access to shower facilities or a comfortable stay at Smoo Cave Hotel, you'll find the ideal lodging to enhance your visit to this stunning natural attraction.

• Durness Youth Hostel: Durness Youth Hostel offers a welcoming and budget-friendly atmosphere, perfect for backpackers and adventurous travellers. Located a mere 161m from Smoo Cave, it’s an ideal spot for those eager to explore the stunning natural beauty of Durness. This hostel is particularly suited for pet owners, as it accommodates pets with thoughtful amenities such as food and water bowls. With a relaxed vibe and communal areas, it encourages social interaction among guests, making it a great choice for those looking to connect with fellow adventurers.
• The Tongue Hotel: This 3-star hotel combines comfort with a charming Scottish ambiance, situated 19.3km from Smoo Cave. The Tongue Hotel is a delightful retreat for travellers seeking pet-friendly accommodation, offering amenities that cater to furry companions. With a warm and inviting atmosphere, guests can enjoy a cosy lounge, a bar serving local ales, and a restaurant featuring seasonal dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. The hotel’s scenic surroundings provide a tranquil escape, making it a perfect base for exploring the rugged beauty of the Highlands.
• The Lazy Crofter Bunkhouse - Hostel: The Lazy Crofter Bunkhouse is a modern 4-star hostel located 1.6km from Smoo Cave, ideal for those who appreciate a blend of comfort and community. This stylish accommodation offers a range of bunk options and a fully equipped kitchen, perfect for budget-conscious travellers. With a focus on social interaction, guests can enjoy communal spaces that encourage mingling. Its proximity to local attractions and stunning landscapes makes it a fantastic choice for nature enthusiasts and those looking to immerse themselves in the Scottish Highlands.

Where to stay near Smoo Cave

Visiting Smoo Cave offers a remarkable adventure in the heart of Durness, where the accessible massive cavern beckons explorers. The Allt Smoo River flows nearby, enhancing the stunning views of the rugged landscape. Friendly locals add to the charm of the area, making it a delightful spot for tourists. Prepare for an unforgettable experience as you delve into the active cave and immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery that surrounds this unique destination.

• Durness: Nestled along the dramatic coastline of Scotland, Durness is a charming village that serves as the gateway to Smoo Cave. Known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor activities, Durness attracts visitors particularly between June and August when the weather is at its finest. Here, you can explore the local beaches, hike scenic trails, and visit the nearby caves and parks. The sense of community is strong, with local stores offering unique finds, making it an ideal destination for families and eco-friendly travellers looking to immerse themselves in nature.
• Tongue: Located approximately 19.3km from Smoo Cave, Tongue is a picturesque village set against the backdrop of the rugged Highlands. The area is less seasonal in terms of tourism, with peak visits during the spring and summer months. Tongue is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of walking trails and beautiful beaches. Visitors can also enjoy relaxing spa experiences after a day of adventure. The local charm, combined with its proximity to natural attractions, makes Tongue a delightful stop on your journey.
• Balnakeil: Just 3.2km from Smoo Cave, Balnakeil is a quaint village known for its beautiful beaches and rich history. This scenic spot sees a moderate influx of visitors, particularly during the winter and summer months. Families will appreciate the outdoor amenities, including opportunities for beach activities and exploring historic sites. The village is home to a few local stores where you can find unique souvenirs. Balnakeil's peaceful atmosphere and stunning coastal views make it a perfect retreat for those seeking relaxation and adventure alike.

Things to do near Smoo Cave

Near Smoo Cave in Durness, visitors can enjoy activities such as whale watching, swimming, and ferry rides. Additionally, there are fascinating options like tours in Sutherlandshire, archaeological digs, and ongoing archaeological investigations that provide insight into the region's rich history. Whether exploring the natural beauty or delving into the past, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Shopping

Visit Balnakiel Craft Village, a charming store just 3.2km from Smoo Cave, where you can find unique handmade gifts and local crafts. If you're up for a drive, explore the shops in Durness, about 16.1km away, for more options and delightful souvenirs.

Recreation

Smoo Cave offers a tranquil retreat for wellness enthusiasts, with guided meditation sessions amid stunning natural landscapes. Explore the surrounding coastal paths for invigorating walks, and indulge in local spa treatments that harness the area's natural beauty, ensuring a rejuvenating experience in this remote Scottish gem.

Adventure

The Cape Wrath Trail, located 17.7km from Smoo Cave, offers an exhilarating hiking experience amidst breathtaking scenery. As you traverse this rugged path, immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes and embrace the adventurous spirit of the Scottish Highlands.

Nightlife

While Smoo Cave itself is a natural wonder best explored during the day, the nearby village of Durness offers cosy pubs like the Smoo Cave Hotel for a relaxing drink, and the Durness Village Hall often hosts lively events, providing a warm atmosphere to unwind after a day of adventure.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Smoo Cave

To save money on your trip to Smoo Cave, consider visiting during the cheaper months of February to March or December. Book your accommodation about a month in advance for better rates, and aim for a Wednesday stay to avoid higher Friday prices. Use Expedia to find last-minute deals and sort prices from lowest to highest. Look for eco-certified hotels and consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Exploring the area on foot and enjoying free attractions will also help keep your costs down.

• 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 August to September, 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 Friday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To discover the most affordable rates and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking at Smoo Cave with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Smoo Cave

Within and around Smoo Cave, visitors can immerse themselves in stunning beaches, dramatic capes, and majestic mountains. This picturesque area offers a variety of attractions that cater to those seeking outdoor experiences and breathtaking scenery. Whether you're exploring the rugged coastline or enjoying the natural beauty of the landscape, Smoo Cave promises an unforgettable adventure for every traveller.

• Durness Beach: Just 805m from Smoo Cave, Durness Beach offers stunning sandy shores and vibrant beach vibes. It's the perfect spot for a relaxing stroll or a picnic, with the sound of waves and breathtaking coastal views.
• Cape Wrath: Located 17.7km away, Cape Wrath boasts dramatic cliffs and stunning scenery. This remote cape provides an exhilarating experience, where you can take in the rugged beauty of the Scottish coastline and enjoy the tranquil beach atmosphere.
• John Lennon Memorial Garden: Only 1.6km from Smoo Cave, this rock garden is a lovely outdoor space dedicated to the legendary musician. It's ideal for families, offering a peaceful environment to reflect and enjoy nature.

Best time to go to Smoo Cave

The best time to visit Smoo Cave is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, 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, located 120.7km away, offers nearby hotels such as the 5-star Ness Walk and Rocpool Reserve, both 12.9km from the airport, with various transportation services available. Kirkwall Airport is 112.7km from Smoo Cave, with options like the 4-star Graemeshall House and 3-star Albert Hotel, both just 4.8km away. Stornoway Airport, 64.8km away, has hotels like the 4-star Cabarfeidh Hotel and the 3.5-star County Hotel, both 3.2km from the airport. All these hotels provide convenient access to their respective airports.