Top Hotels Near Smoo Cave in Durness

Top reasons to visit Smoo Cave

• Stunning Natural Scenery: Experience the breathtaking landscapes of the rugged Scottish Highlands, featuring majestic mountains and dramatic coastlines.
• Unique Geological Features: Explore the fascinating geology of Smoo Cave, including its impressive limestone cliffs and enchanting rock formations.
• Adventure Activities: Enjoy whale watching, swimming, and hiking, catering to outdoor enthusiasts looking for thrills.
• Relaxing Beaches: Unwind at nearby stunning beaches, perfect for soaking in the sun and enjoying the views.
• Welcoming Accommodation: Choose from a range of cosy lodgings, including pet-friendly options that offer a warm local atmosphere.

Find great hotels near Smoo Cave

For a memorable stay near Smoo Cave in Durness, Scotland, you'll find a variety of accommodation options to suit your preferences. From cosy bed and breakfasts to budget-friendly hostels, there's something for every traveller. Many hotels in the area also cater to pet-friendly needs, ensuring a welcoming experience for you and your furry companions. Explore the diverse lodging choices available near Smoo Cave and enjoy your Scottish adventure.

• Durness Youth Hostel: Ideal for adventurous travellers, Durness Youth Hostel offers a welcoming atmosphere for backpackers and pet owners alike. Located a mere 161m from Smoo Cave, this hostel features essential amenities designed for comfort and convenience. Guests can enjoy pet-friendly policies, including Food and Water Bowls and designated areas for dogs. The hostel promotes a communal spirit, making it a great spot for meeting fellow explorers while enjoying the stunning landscapes of Durness.
• The Lazy Crofter Bunkhouse - Hostel: With a 4-star rating, The Lazy Crofter Bunkhouse - Hostel combines quality with a laid-back vibe, situated 1.6km from Smoo Cave. This modern hostel offers a variety of shared and private accommodation options, catering to both solo travellers and groups. It’s the perfect base for those looking to explore the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands, and its friendly atmosphere encourages social interaction among guests, making it ideal for those seeking camaraderie during their stay.
• The Tongue Hotel: A charming 3-star property located 19.3km from Smoo Cave, The Tongue Hotel is a delightful choice for those seeking a more traditional hotel experience. With pet-friendly policies in place, it ensures that furry friends are welcome. The hotel features comfortable rooms with scenic views, an on-site restaurant serving local cuisine, and a cosy bar for unwinding after a day of exploration. The Tongue Hotel strikes a balance between comfort and Highland hospitality, making it a fantastic option for any visitor.

Where to stay near Smoo Cave

For a memorable adventure near Smoo Cave, immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery of the rugged Scottish Highlands. Discover the majestic limestone cliffs and explore the enchanting cave's fascinating geology. Stay at a nearby hotel to enjoy the warm, welcoming atmosphere and connect with friendly locals. Don't miss the chance to wander along the stunning coastline or hike through the picturesque landscapes, creating unforgettable memories in this captivating corner of Scotland.

• Durness: Nestled along the rugged north coast of Scotland, Durness is a charming town that serves as the gateway to Smoo Cave. This area is particularly popular during the warmer months from June to August, attracting outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. With stunning beaches, scenic parks, and the captivating Smoo Cave itself, Durness offers a range of activities, including hiking trails that wind through breathtaking landscapes. The local amenities, such as shops and eateries, make it a convenient base for exploration while immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the Scottish Highlands.
• Tongue: Located approximately 19.3km from Smoo Cave, Tongue boasts a picturesque setting with panoramic views of the surrounding hills and coastline. This welcoming village sees a steady influx of visitors, particularly from April to July, who come for its outdoor adventures and family-friendly atmosphere. Activities like hiking, golf, and relaxation at local spas enrich the travel experience here. With beautiful beaches and parks nearby, Tongue is an ideal spot for travellers seeking a blend of adventure and tranquility.
• Balnakeil: Just 3.2km from Smoo Cave, the quaint village of Balnakeil is perfect for those craving a scenic escape. The area experiences moderate seasonal visitors, peaking in January, April, and July, and is known for its stunning coastal views and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore beautiful beaches, tranquil parks, and the dramatic coastline of Balnakeil Bay. This village is a gem for families and nature lovers, providing a peaceful retreat while being close to the attractions of Durness and Smoo Cave.

Things to do near Smoo Cave

When visiting Smoo Cave in Durness, you can enjoy whale watching, swimming, and ferry rides. Don't miss the chance to explore interesting local museums and relax at nearby beaches, offering stunning views and a chance to unwind. This unique destination is a perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty, making it an ideal spot for your holiday.

Shopping

Only 3.2km from Smoo Cave, Balnakiel Craft Village offers unique gifts and local crafts. If you're up for a drive, consider visiting shops in nearby towns for more options and a wider selection of souvenirs to take home.

Recreation

At Smoo Cave, experience the serene atmosphere of the nearby Durness Wellness Retreat, offering rejuvenating therapies and holistic treatments. Explore the surrounding landscapes through guided walks or partake in calming yoga sessions, immersing yourself in nature’s beauty while promoting your well-being.

Adventure

The Cape Wrath Trail, located 17.7km from Smoo Cave, offers an exhilarating hiking experience through stunning landscapes. With rugged terrain and breathtaking views, this trail is perfect for adventurous souls seeking outdoor thrills amidst Scotland's natural beauty.

Nightlife

While Smoo Cave isn't known for a bustling nightlife, you can enjoy a peaceful evening stroll along the coastline. For a lively atmosphere, head to the nearby Durness Village where local pubs like the Smoo Cave Hotel offer a warm welcome and refreshing drinks after a day of exploration.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Smoo Cave

To save money on your visit to Smoo Cave, consider travelling during the off-peak months of February to March and December when accommodation prices are lower. Book your stay about a month in advance or look for last-minute deals on Expedia. Aim for a Wednesday arrival for the best rates, and use Expedia’s search tool to filter by budget and eco-friendly options. Combine your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings, and keep an eye out for special deals to maximise your trip on a budget.

• 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: Booking a hotel around Smoo Cave about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• 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: Expedia’s search tool lets you set your budget, choose your ideal location, and more. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, making it easy to find the most affordable accommodation. Additionally, you have the option to filter 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 cash by combining your Smoo Cave hotel stay with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions near Smoo Cave

When visiting Smoo Cave in Durness, Scotland, you'll find a wealth of attractions, including stunning beaches, dramatic capes, and majestic mountains. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, the area offers spectacular scenery and the chance to explore the famous Smoo Cave itself. Whether you're seeking adventure or simply want to soak in the breathtaking landscape, there's plenty to see and do for every type of traveller.

• Durness Beach: Just 805m from Smoo Cave, Durness Beach boasts stunning stretches of golden sand and vibrant beach vibes. It's the perfect spot to relax, explore tide pools, and enjoy the fresh sea air.
• John Lennon Memorial Garden: Located 1.6km away, this tranquil rock garden offers a beautiful outdoor space to reflect and appreciate nature. It's a family-friendly destination, ideal for a leisurely stroll surrounded by lovely flora.
• Cape Wrath: A scenic 17.7km journey leads you to Cape Wrath, where dramatic cliffs meet the crashing waves. The breathtaking views and rugged coastline create a picturesque setting that captures the essence of Scotland's natural beauty.

Best time to go to Smoo Cave

The best time to visit Smoo Cave is dependant 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	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

Smoo Cave is easily accessible via several major airports. Inverness Airport (INV) is approximately 120.7km away, with quality accommodation options like the 5-star Rocpool Reserve and Ness Walk, both 12.9km from the airport, offering convenient transport services. Kirkwall Airport (KOI), located 112.7km from Smoo Cave, has nearby hotels like the 4-star Lynnfield Hotel and Hildeval B&B, just a few miles away. Stornoway Airport (SYY) is the closest at 101.4km, with excellent guesthouses such as the Hebridean Guest House and Stornoway Bed and Breakfast, both 3.2km from the airport. All these locations provide a variety of transport options for easy access to Smoo Cave.