Smoo Cave

About Smoo Cave

Smoo Cave near Durness is one of Scotland's most impressive natural wonders — a vast limestone sea cave with the largest cave entrance in Britain, measuring 15 metres high and 40 metres wide. The cave was formed by the combined action of seawater eroding the limestone from the seaward end and a freshwater burn (the Allt Smoo) cutting down through the rock from above, creating a spectacular inner chamber with a waterfall dropping through a hole in the cave roof. The name "Smoo" derives from the Norse word "smuga", meaning a hiding place. Archaeological excavations have found evidence of Neolithic and Viking occupation in the cave. Boat trips into the deeper inner chambers run in calm weather and are highly recommended for the full experience.

Highlights

Largest sea cave entrance in Britain

Subterranean waterfall

Boat trips into inner chambers

Geological formations

Archaeological finds (Neolithic, Viking)

🚐 Motorhome Tip Free car park above the cave — good motorhome access. Steps lead down to the cave entrance. Boat trips (small charge) run weather permitting — check with the guide at the cave entrance. The cave itself is free to enter and the outer chamber is accessible year-round without a guide.

Getting There

Signed from the A838 at Durness, 1 mile east of the village centre. Steps lead down from the car park to the cave.

Best Time to Visit

Year round (cave always accessible). Boat trips run May–September (weather dependent). The cave floods in very wet weather — inner chambers may be inaccessible.

Nearby Attractions

Map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Quick Facts

Region Sutherland

Type 🕳️ Cave

Duration 1–2 hours

Admission 🆓 Free

For MH ✅ Friendly

NC500 Mile ~279

OS Grid NC 418 671

Website Official site →

Directions Open in Google Maps →

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