Hotels near Smoo Cave

Top reasons to visit Smoo Cave

• Stunning Cave Tours: Explore the magnificent Smoo Cave with guided tours showcasing its breathtaking rock formations and the enchanting Allt Smoo river.
• Outdoor Activities: Enjoy whale watching, swimming, and boat rides along the dramatic coastline for a unique perspective of the area.
• Scenic Surroundings: Revel in the natural beauty of nearby beaches, capes, and mountains, perfect for leisurely strolls and photography.
• Welcoming Community: Experience the warmth of friendly locals who enhance your adventure and make you feel at home.
• Varied Accommodation: Choose from cosy bed and breakfasts to budget-friendly hostels that cater to all needs, including pet owners.

Find great hotels near Smoo Cave

Discover a variety of accommodation options near Smoo Cave in Durness, Scotland, ranging from cosy bed and breakfasts to friendly hostels ideal for budget travellers. Many local hotels cater to pet owners, ensuring a pleasant stay for all family members. Whether you're searching for the best-reviewed Durness hotels or looking for a unique experience, you'll find the perfect lodging to complement your visit to this stunning natural wonder.

• Durness Youth Hostel: A budget-friendly choice, Durness Youth Hostel offers a welcoming atmosphere for backpackers and budget travellers. With a commendable guest rating of 8.4 out of 10, this hostel is merely 161m from Smoo Cave, making it an ideal base for exploring the stunning natural surroundings. The property is pet-friendly, accommodating guests who wish to travel with their furry companions. Amenities include provisions for service animals, food and water bowls, and a pet policy that ensures a comfortable stay for both guests and their pets.
• The Lazy Crofter Bunkhouse - Hostel: This 4-star rated hostel offers a cosy yet vibrant atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a social environment while enjoying the beauty of Durness. Situated 2km from Smoo Cave, The Lazy Crofter Bunkhouse is designed for the adventurous spirit, providing shared and private accommodations at affordable rates. Guests can expect shared kitchen facilities, communal lounges and a friendly community vibe that encourages interaction amongst travellers. Its proximity to local attractions makes it a suitable option for those looking to explore the area's natural wonders.
• The Tongue Hotel: A charming 3-star hotel located 19km from Smoo Cave, The Tongue Hotel combines comfort with a picturesque setting. This property welcomes pets, catering to those who wish to bring their pets along for a holiday. With a delightful restaurant and bar on-site, guests can enjoy local cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere. The hotel’s inviting rooms and stunning views of the surrounding landscape provide a peaceful retreat after a day of exploring the scenic Highlands.

Where to stay near Smoo Cave

Visiting Smoo Cave is a remarkable experience, offering stunning natural beauty and the chance to explore the enchanting Allt Smoo river. You’ll find spectacular beaches nearby, perfect for a leisurely stroll. The friendly locals enhance your adventure, making you feel right at home. Don’t forget to capture the magic of the cave and surrounding landscapes in photographs. Whether you're walking your dog or simply wandering, Smoo Cave and its vicinity promise an unforgettable getaway.

• Durness: Nestled along the rugged north coast of Scotland, Durness is a picturesque village known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. It’s the home of Smoo Cave, a remarkable natural wonder that draws visitors year-round. The area experiences moderate seasonal traffic, with peak visitors from June to August, making it an ideal summer getaway. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the hiking trails and beautiful beaches, while families can enjoy the local parks. Durness offers a friendly, eco-conscious atmosphere, with various trails leading to breathtaking views of the coastline and nearby landmarks, including the famous Smoo Cave itself.
• Tongue: Just 19km from Smoo Cave, Tongue is a charming village that boasts a rich tapestry of outdoor experiences and natural beauty. With a less seasonal influx of visitors, it attracts families and eco-conscious travellers, especially during the peak months of April and June to July. The area is perfect for hiking enthusiasts, offering scenic trails with views of the surrounding landscape. Golf enthusiasts can also enjoy local courses, while the nearby beaches and parks provide excellent spots for relaxation. Tongue’s welcoming community and stunning surroundings make it a delightful stop on your Scottish adventure.
• Balnakeil: Located a mere 3km from Smoo Cave, Balnakeil is a quaint village that offers a peaceful retreat with a focus on beach and cultural experiences. The village attracts visitors moderately throughout the year, peaking in January, April, and July. Known for its stunning beaches and rich history, Balnakeil provides an ideal base for those looking to explore the area’s historic sites and natural beauty. Enjoy the local store and immerse yourself in the village’s cultural charm. Whether you’re sunbathing on the beach or exploring nearby parks, Balnakeil promises a memorable and enriching experience.

Things to do in Smoo Cave

Shopping

While Smoo Cave itself doesn’t offer shopping, Durness features local shops like the Durness Village Store for unique gifts. If you're up for a drive, head to the nearby town of Thurso, where you can explore shops like Caithness Glass for exquisite souvenirs.

Recreation

Explore Smoo Cave's stunning sea cliffs and unique rock formations on a guided tour, followed by a serene walk along the nearby coastline. For relaxation, find a quiet spot to meditate or enjoy a picnic amidst the breathtaking landscapes and fresh sea air.

Adventure

Smoo Cave, a stunning coastal cavern, offers guided boat tours exploring its enchanting chambers and waterfalls. Adventurous souls can also hike nearby cliffs for breathtaking views of the rugged coastline, while the surrounding landscape provides ample opportunities for wildlife spotting and photography enthusiasts alike.

Nightlife

After exploring Smoo Cave, visit The Durness Hotel for a relaxed atmosphere and local ales. For a lively night, head to The Smoo Cave Restaurant, where you can enjoy tasty dishes and occasional live music, adding a delightful end to your day in Durness.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Smoo Cave

To save money during your visit to Smoo Cave, plan your trip between February to March or December, when accommodation prices are lower. Book hotels about a month in advance or check Expedia for last-minute deals. Wednesdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Fridays are the most expensive. Use Expedia's search tool to filter by budget and location, and sort results by price for the best offers. Consider booking a package that combines your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Keep an eye out for exclusive discounts and instant savings to maximise your 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 to June and 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 Friday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to narrow down your preferences, such as budget, preferred location, and desired hotel type. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy significant savings by combining your hotel stay at Smoo Cave with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Smoo Cave

The stunning Smoo Cave in Durness offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and adventure, with nearby attractions including scenic beaches, dramatic capes, and majestic mountains. Visitors can explore the enchanting sea cave, partake in outdoor activities, and soak in breathtaking views. Whether you're keen to delve into the depths of Smoo Cave or simply enjoy the picturesque surroundings, there’s plenty to discover for every traveller seeking a memorable experience.

• Cape Wrath: Approximately 18km from Smoo Cave, Cape Wrath offers stunning coastal scenery and dramatic landscapes. The remote location provides a sense of adventure, with opportunities for beach walks and photography amidst breathtaking views.
• Durness Beach: Just 0.8km from Smoo Cave, Durness Beach boasts soft sands and clear waters, ideal for a relaxing day by the sea. The beach atmosphere invites leisurely strolls and the chance to soak in the tranquil surroundings.
• Ben Hope: Located 18km away, Ben Hope is the highest mountain in Sutherland, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. The ascent rewards hikers with panoramic views of the area, making it a memorable adventure amidst nature.

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

Reaching Smoo Cave in Durness, Scotland, is convenient with several major airports nearby. INVerness Airport (INV) is approximately 121km away, with excellent hotels such as the 5-star Ness Walk and Rocpool Reserve, both 13km from the airport. Kirkwall Airport (KOI) is around 113km from Smoo Cave, offering nearby accommodations like the 4-star Hildeval B&B and The Ayre Hotel, both just 5km away. Stornoway Airport (SYY) is the closest at 101km, with options including the 4-star Cabarfeidh Hotel and Hebridean Guest House, both 3km from the airport. Each hotel provides various transportation services to facilitate your travel.