Top Hotels Near Smoo Cave in Durness

Top reasons to visit Smoo Cave

• Stunning Natural Beauty: Smoo Cave is surrounded by breathtaking scenery, including rugged coastlines, pristine beaches, and majestic mountains.
• Outdoor Adventures: Engage in activities like whale watching, swimming, and camping, perfect for adventure seekers.
• Rich History: Explore fascinating historical sites and walking trails that showcase the area’s heritage.
• Charming Accommodations: A variety of lodging options, from cosy inns to pet-friendly hostels, cater to all types of travellers.
• Local Entertainment: Enjoy evening live music and entertainment options after a day of exploration.

Find great hotels near Smoo Cave

Discover a variety of charming accommodations near Smoo Cave, perfect for every traveller. From cosy inns and quaint hostels to pet-friendly options, there’s something for everyone. Whether you're seeking a small hotel or a vibrant backpacker experience, you'll find the ideal base to explore the stunning landscapes of Durness and the captivating beauty of Smoo Cave.

• Durness Youth Hostel: Nestled a mere 161m from the stunning Smoo Cave, Durness Youth Hostel is an ideal choice for adventurous backpackers and travellers seeking a communal atmosphere. This hostel embraces a pet-friendly policy, welcoming furry companions with open arms. Guests can enjoy amenities like food and water bowls for pets, ensuring a comfortable stay for all. With its relaxed vibe, it’s perfect for those looking to explore the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands while enjoying affordable lodging.
• The Tongue Hotel: Located 19.3km from Smoo Cave, The Tongue Hotel combines traditional charm with modern comforts in a picturesque setting. This 3-star hotel is also pet-friendly, allowing guests to bring their dogs along for the adventure. With a focus on warm hospitality, it features cozy rooms and a restaurant serving local cuisine. The Tongue Hotel offers a unique blend of relaxation and exploration, making it a delightful base for your Scottish getaway.
• The Lazy Crofter Bunkhouse - Hostel: Just 1.6km from Smoo Cave, The Lazy Crofter Bunkhouse is a 4-star hostel that caters to those seeking a comfortable yet budget-friendly stay. This accommodation is designed for socialising, with communal spaces that encourage interaction amongst guests. While it primarily focuses on backpackers, the cosy atmosphere and well-maintained facilities ensure a pleasant experience. Ideal for those who appreciate simplicity and community, this bunkhouse is a perfect retreat after a day of exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Durness.

Where to stay near Smoo Cave

Discover the enchanting beauty surrounding Smoo Cave in Durness, where breathtaking scenery meets warm Scottish hospitality. Explore the rugged coastline, pristine beaches, and charming villages nearby. Experience the fascinating history of the area, with numerous walking trails and stunning viewpoints just a stone's throw away. Whether you're seeking adventure or a memorable stay, Smoo Cave and its nearby destinations offer an unforgettable Scottish escape.

• Durness: Nestled along the rugged coastline of Scotland's northern Highlands, Durness is a charming village and the gateway to Smoo Cave. Known for its stunning landscapes, Durness attracts visitors seeking outdoor adventures, especially from June to August. Here, you can explore breathtaking hiking trails, relax on pristine beaches, or delve into the fascinating history of the local caves. Durness offers a unique eco-friendly experience, making it ideal for families and nature lovers alike. Key attractions include the enchanting Smoo Cave itself, along with nearby parks that provide a perfect backdrop for picnics and leisurely strolls.
• Tongue: Just 19.3km from Smoo Cave, Tongue is a picturesque village that offers a blend of outdoor activities and serene landscapes. With visitor numbers peaking in April and the summer months, Tongue is an excellent spot for families looking to embrace nature. Enjoy scenic hiking trails, unwind at the local spa, or tee off at a golf course while soaking in stunning views. The nearby beaches and parks provide ample opportunities for relaxation and exploration, making Tongue a delightful addition to your itinerary.
• Balnakeil: Located a mere 3.2km from Smoo Cave, Balnakeil is a quaint village that enchants visitors with its beautiful scenery and tranquil atmosphere. Popular among families, Balnakeil attracts travellers throughout the year, particularly in January, April, and July. Experience the natural beauty of the area with walks along the beach or through the local parks. The stunning cape and surrounding landscapes make it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts and those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Things to do near Smoo Cave

When visiting Smoo Cave in Durness, you can enjoy a variety of activities such as whale watching, swimming, and taking a ferry. For a great outdoor experience, there are camping spots and picnic areas nearby. In the evenings, you might find live music and other entertainment options, while ski resorts are also within reach for those who enjoy winter sports. Make the most of your adventure in this stunning part of Scotland!

Shopping

Visit Balnakiel Craft Village, a charming store just 3.2km from Smoo Cave, offering unique handmade gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to Ullapool, located 32.2km away, where you’ll find various shops and local crafts to explore.

Recreation

Experience the tranquil beauty of Smoo Cave with guided meditation sessions amidst the stunning natural surroundings. Explore nearby hiking trails for invigorating walks, and unwind with yoga classes that incorporate the calming sounds of nature, promoting relaxation and rejuvenation.

Adventure

The Cape Wrath Trail, located 17.7km from Smoo Cave, offers an exhilarating hiking experience amidst stunning landscapes. Immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands as you trek through diverse terrains, all while soaking up the fresh air and adventure vibes.

Nightlife

While Smoo Cave itself is a natural wonder, the nearby Durness offers a relaxed nightlife vibe. Enjoy a pint at the Smoo Cave Hotel or catch live music at the local community hall for a taste of Scottish culture. Perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration!

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Smoo Cave

For a budget-friendly visit to Smoo Cave, aim to travel between February to March or December, where accommodation prices drop. Booking your stay about a month in advance can help secure the best rates, particularly on Wednesdays, the cheapest day to stay. Use Expedia’s tools to filter by price and eco-friendly options. Consider combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package deal for further savings. Also, keep an eye out for last-minute discounts for spontaneous trips. Enjoy free activities like exploring the stunning landscapes around Durness!

• 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: Book your hotel around Smoo Cave about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
• 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 Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your ideal location, and much more. You can easily organise your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable accommodation first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Smoo Cave hotel stay with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions near Smoo Cave

If you’re heading to Smoo Cave in Durness, Scotland, be sure to explore its stunning beaches, rugged capes, and majestic mountains. This famous sea cave is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts seeking breathtaking scenery. Enjoy the unique experience of discovering both Smoo Cave and its surrounding attractions, which cater perfectly to those looking for adventure and natural beauty.

• Durness Beach: Just 805m from Smoo Cave, Durness Beach offers stunning golden sands and vibrant beach vibes. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shore or relax while soaking in the breathtaking coastal views.
• Cape Wrath: Located 17.7km away, Cape Wrath is a spectacular cape boasting dramatic scenery and serene beach vibes. The rugged cliffs and panoramic vistas make it a perfect spot for photography and nature lovers alike.
• Ben Hope: Also 17.7km from Smoo Cave, Ben Hope is the most northerly Munro in Scotland. Its outdoor adventure opportunities, from hiking to stunning views, promise an unforgettable experience for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts.

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	Slightly High
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	Average
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 in Durness, you can fly into three major airports. Inverness Airport (INV), located 120.7km away, offers nearby hotels like the 5-star Ness Walk and Rocpool Reserve, both 12.9km from the airport, providing airport shuttle services. Stornoway Airport (SYY) is 101.4km from Smoo Cave, with excellent options such as the 4-star Stornoway Bed and Breakfast and the Cabarfeidh Hotel, both just 3.2km away. Kirkwall Airport (KOI), located 112.7km from Smoo Cave, features hotels like the 4-star Lynnfield Hotel and the Ayre Hotel, both within easy reach. Each airport has convenient access to local accommodations for a comfortable stay.