Maciej Winiarczyk
Maciej Winiarczyk
Photo by Local Lens Media
Smoo Cave
Located just outside the village of Durness, Smoo Cave boasts one of the largest and most striking cave entrances in Britain. Set at the head of a narrow coastal inlet, this impressive limestone cave is around 30 metres (100 feet) wide and features a dramatic waterfall that drops into its inner chamber.
A wooden walkway leads into the cave, offering access to the viewing platform for the spectacular Smoo Falls, where the Allt Smoo river pours through a hole in the cave roof. In the outer chamber, you’ll find unique limestone flora like Hart’s-tongue ferns, as well as an ancient midden indicating Stone Age settlement.
Plan your visit
Smoo Cave is open to visitors all year round, with guided tours available from April to October. It’s located just outside the village of Durness in Sutherland, with parking available nearby for easy access. On-site, you’ll find visitor information panels to help you make the most of your trip. The village of Durness has plenty of family-friendly amenities including local shops, post office, campsite, hotels.
Free access all year round
Visitors can enjoy the walkway to the waterfall chamber free of charge year-round.
Guided cave tours (April–October)
For those looking to explore further, seasonal guided tours are available,including a short boat ride into the deeper chambers. These tours offer fascinating insights into the cave’s geology, archaeology, and folklore.