Golden Eagle Zipline in Durness
Britain's most northerly zipline: 37 meters of pure adrenaline above the Atlantic.
Experience the UK's most northerly zipline, launching from a 37-meter coastal cliff above Ceannabeinne Beach near Durness in the Scottish Highlands. This thrilling adventure combines adrenaline-pumping speeds of up to 45 mph with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and dramatic Highland scenery. Perfect for adventure seekers, the experience includes full safety equipment and professional instruction, making it accessible to most fitness levels.
A brief summary to Golden Eagle Zip Line in Durness
- Lairg, Durness, IV27 4QE, GB
- +441971511404
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
- Monday 10:15 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10:15 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10:15 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10:15 am-4 pm
- Friday 10:15 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10:15 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10:15 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Book multiple flights in advance if possible—the two-flight package offers better value than single flights, and popular times can fill up quickly, especially during summer months.
- Allow extra travel time when driving to Durness; roads are predominantly single-track with passing places, and weather can slow progress significantly. Plan for at least 3–4 hours from Inverness.
- Check weather conditions before traveling; the zipline is weather-dependent and may close during high winds or heavy rain. Winter visits require flexibility.
- Wear warm, windproof layers even in summer; the exposed clifftop location means wind chill is significant, and you'll be stationary during the briefing.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Smoo Cave, Balnakeil Craft Village, and scenic beach walks to maximize your time in this remote and beautiful region.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Private Car from Inverness
Drive north from Inverness on the A9 toward Thurso, then follow the A838 and A837 toward Lochinver and Durness. The final approach uses the A838 and single-track roads with passing places. Total journey time is approximately 3.5 to 4 hours depending on road conditions and traffic. Roads are well-maintained but narrow in places; drive carefully and allow extra time in winter or poor weather. Parking is available at the zipline site. No booking required, but arrive early during peak summer season (June–August) as capacity is limited.
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Minibus or Coach Tour
Several tour operators based in Inverness and the central Highlands offer guided minibus excursions to Durness and the Golden Eagle Zipline as part of North Coast 500 itineraries. Journey time from Inverness is typically 4 to 4.5 hours. Tours usually include the zipline experience, professional guidance, and often combine visits to nearby attractions such as Smoo Cave. Prices vary by operator but typically range from £80 to £150 per person including the zipline. Book in advance through tour operators or accommodation providers.
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Motorcycle or Bicycle
Experienced motorcyclists and cyclists can reach Durness via the same routes as cars, though single-track roads and weather conditions require caution. Motorcycle journey time from Inverness is approximately 3.5 to 4 hours. Cycling is possible but extremely challenging due to distance, elevation changes, and remote terrain; not recommended as a day trip. Weather and road conditions are critical factors; check forecasts and road reports before departure.
Golden Eagle Zip Line in Durness location weather suitability
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Golden Eagle Zip Line in Durness
A Clifftop Thrill Above the Atlantic
Perched on the rugged north coast of Scotland, the Golden Eagle Zipline offers one of Britain's most exhilarating outdoor experiences. Launching from a 37-meter-high coastal cliff at Ceannabeinne Beach, near the remote village of Durness, this zipline carries you across one of the most spectacular stretches of the Scottish Highlands. As you step off the platform, you'll accelerate to speeds of up to 45 mph, suspended high above golden sand and crashing Atlantic waves, with unobstructed views across the bay and surrounding mountainous terrain.The Experience Itself
The operation is run by two experienced guides who prioritize both safety and enjoyment. Upon arrival, you receive a comprehensive briefing on harness fitting and safety procedures. You'll be equipped with a secure harness, helmet, and all necessary protective gear before being connected to the pulley system. The flight itself lasts just long enough to experience the full rush of speed and weightlessness while taking in the breathtaking landscape. Many visitors choose to go multiple times, with pricing structured to encourage repeat flights. The guides are known for their friendly, chatty demeanor, making the experience welcoming even for first-time zipliner.Landscape and Setting
Durness sits at the northwestern tip of mainland Scotland, where the landscape transitions into raw, untamed wilderness. Ceannabeinne Beach, where the zipline is located, is framed by dramatic limestone cliffs and backed by rolling moorland. The Atlantic Ocean stretches endlessly to the west, and on clear days, the views extend across the Minch toward the Outer Hebrides. The beach itself is one of the most beautiful in the Northern Highlands, with golden sand and crystalline waters that contrast sharply with the dark rock formations. The surrounding area is characterized by sparse vegetation, windswept grasses, and a sense of isolation that emphasizes the remoteness of this corner of Scotland.Practical Considerations for Visitors
Durness is genuinely remote—located several hours north of Inverness via single-track roads with passing places. The journey itself becomes part of the adventure, as you drive through increasingly wild terrain. Public transport is minimal, so most visitors arrive by private car, motorcycle, or minibus. The zipline operates year-round, weather permitting, with typical hours from mid-morning through late afternoon. Winter conditions can occasionally close the operation, so flexibility is advisable. The nearest significant town is Tongue, roughly 30 kilometers away, and accommodation options range from cozy bed-and-breakfasts to self-catering cottages and holiday pods scattered throughout the area.Integration with the North Coast 500
The Golden Eagle Zipline sits directly on the famous North Coast 500 scenic route, making it an ideal waypoint for travelers exploring Scotland's northern coastline. The route itself is renowned for dramatic coastal scenery, hidden beaches, and access to some of Britain's most remote landscapes. Combining the zipline with nearby attractions such as Smoo Cave, Balnakeil Craft Village, and numerous hiking trails creates a rich multi-day itinerary for adventure and nature enthusiasts.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Stoer Lighthouse
54.6 km
Experience a unique self-catering lighthouse stay with panoramic coastal views on Scotland’s remote and rugged Stoer Head.
Braal Castle
69.3 km
A 14th-century Highland fortress overlooking the River Thurso, once seat of the Earls of Caithness.
Duke Of Sutherland Monument
74.2 km
A towering Highland landmark blending breathtaking views with the complex legacy of the Duke of Sutherland’s era.
Dunnet Links: St. Coomb Chapel (6th century, former site))
75.7 km
Discover the ancient ruins of St. Coomb Chapel, a 6th-century site near Castletown that reveals Scotland’s early Christian heritage.
Monument to Harriet, Duchess of Sutherland
76.0 km
A dignified monument in Golspie honoring Harriet, Duchess of Sutherland, a Victorian political hostess and social reformer with a lasting Highland legacy.
Ardgay Bespoke Tours
76.8 km
Experience the Scottish Highlands like never before with personalized tours that celebrate nature, history, and culture in Ardgay.
Above and Beyond Tours
76.9 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Caithness with Above and Beyond Tours, where adventure meets local expertise in Scotland's stunning north.
Caithness.Org
79.5 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture of Caithness, Scotland's northern gem, where adventure awaits at every turn.
Walkhighlands
89.2 km
Explore Scotland step by step with Walkhighlands, your comprehensive guide to hiking and walking routes across the Highlands and beyond.
Cairn of Get
89.9 km
Explore the ancient wonders of the Cairn of Get, a remarkable historical landmark in Lybster, Scotland, steeped in rich heritage and breathtaking scenery.
Reiss Sands
90.2 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Reiss Sands, a pristine public beach near Wick, perfect for relaxation and exploration amidst Scotland's stunning coastline.
Whitegate broch
90.7 km
An atmospheric Iron Age broch perched on a Caithness headland, offering dramatic sea views and a powerful sense of Scotland’s ancient past.
Whaligoe Steps
90.9 km
Uncover the breathtaking beauty of Scotland at Whaligoe Steps, a historical staircase revealing stunning coastal views and rich maritime heritage.
Old Keiss Castle
91.0 km
Perched on Caithness cliffs, Old Keiss Castle’s dramatic ruins tell the tale of Sinclair nobility and Scotland’s turbulent history.
Ackergill Tower
91.1 km
Experience the historic charm and stunning beauty of Ackergill Tower, a magnificent castle in the heart of Caithness, Scotland, perfect for your next getaway.
Unmissable attractions to see
Smoo Cave
3.1 km
Explore Britain’s largest sea cave with a stunning waterfall, hidden chambers, and rich history in Scotland’s wild North West Highlands.
Durness Beach
4.4 km
Discover the wild, golden sands and tranquil beauty of Durness Beach, a remote Highland gem where sea meets rugged cliffs.
Balnakeil Church
6.2 km
A windswept 17th-century church ruin above Balnakeil Bay, with a haunting graveyard, Gaelic bard’s memorial, and a highwayman buried in the wall.
Tongue Causeway
14.9 km
Scenic 3.8 km causeway and bridge crossing the Kyle of Tongue, offering stunning Highland views and wildlife encounters.
Castle Varrich
16.1 km
Explore Castle Varrich, a historic castle in the Scottish Highlands, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Scotland's medieval past.
Norse Bakehouse
16.6 km
A cozy family-run cafe in Rhitongue serving artisan focaccia, pizzas, and cakes with friendly service and stunning Highland views.
Broch Dun Dornaigil
20.4 km
Explore Broch Dun Dornaigil, a stunning Iron Age monument in the Scottish Highlands, blending rich history with breathtaking natural beauty.
North West Sutherland National Scenic Area
24.0 km
Explore ancient landscapes, rich wildlife, and rugged beauty in Scotland’s North West Sutherland National Scenic Area.
Am Buachaille
24.2 km
A remote sandstone sea stack near Sandwood Bay, offering challenging climbs and breathtaking wild coastal scenery in Scotland’s far northwest.
Torrisdale beach
24.7 km
A pristine mile of golden sand and dunes on Scotland's wild north coast, where rivers meet the sea and history whispers through ancient stones.
Polin Beach
26.0 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Polin Beach, a secluded golden sandy cove framed by dunes in the wild Scottish Highlands.
Farr Beach Bettyhill
26.8 km
Secluded golden sands and rugged headlands meet serene waters at Farr Beach, a tranquil coastal gem near Bettyhill in northern Scotland.
Farr Bay, Bettyhill
26.9 km
Discover the wild, peaceful shores of Farr Bay near Bettyhill—where dramatic sea views and rich wildlife create a perfect Highland escape.
Strathnaver Museum
27.1 km
Explore 8,000 years of Highland history and the poignant story of the Clearances in the historic Strathnaver Museum near Bettyhill.
Assynt Viewpoint
38.3 km
Dramatic Highland peaks frame an ancient loch and castle ruins in Scotland's remote geological wonderland.
Essential places to dine
Tongue Hotel
16.9 km
Historic Highland lodge with modern luxury, stunning views, and authentic Scottish hospitality on the NC500.
The Store Bistro & Bar
26.3 km
Charming Highland bistro with diverse menus, warm hospitality, and a cozy atmosphere in scenic Bettyhill, perfect for all-day dining and local flavors.
Shorehouse Restaurant
32.5 km
A cozy family-run seafood haven in Tarbet offering fresh catches, stunning Highland coast views, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Scourie Hotel
35.4 km
A charming Highland fishing hotel on Scotland’s northwest coast, blending rustic tradition with cozy comfort and excellent local cuisine.
Eddrachilles Hotel
36.5 km
Charming Highland hotel with stunning sea views, authentic hospitality, and refined Scottish dining on the shores of Badcall Bay.
Kylesku Hotel
38.1 km
Experience Highland charm and fresh seafood with breathtaking views over Loch Glencoul at the welcoming Kylesku Hotel.
The Crask Inn
41.4 km
A remote Highland inn where simple rooms, hearty home-cooked meals, and genuine hospitality meet wild moorland and Munro country.
Halladale Inn
44.2 km
Cozy Highland inn and bistro in Melvich offering hearty Scottish fare, welcoming hospitality, and excellent touring park facilities.
Lochinver Larder
54.9 km
Savor handcrafted Highland pies amid stunning Scottish scenery in the welcoming village of Lochinver.
Delilah's
55.4 km
A lively, family-friendly Highland restaurant serving fresh, locally sourced seafood with stunning sea views and a buzzing atmosphere.
An Cala Café
55.7 km
Fresh seafood and hearty Scottish fare served year-round in a cozy café and bunkhouse nestled in Lochinver’s scenic Culag Park.
The Pier
60.1 km
A charming lakeside café in Lairg offering local produce, panoramic Loch Shin views, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
The Ferry Inn Scrabster
65.5 km
A welcoming harbourside inn in Scrabster offering hearty Scottish fare, cozy rooms, and stunning views of the bustling northern port.
Capilla Tapas Restaurant
65.6 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of Scrabster, offering a cozy taste of Spain in northern Scotland.
Captain's Galley Restaurant
65.7 km
Fresh, locally sourced seafood served in a charming harbour-side setting in Scotland’s northernmost reaches.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
London Stores
22.6 km
Discover local flavors at London Stores, the premier supermarket in Lairg, blending quality groceries with a warm, inviting atmosphere for every traveler.
Spellbound Caithness
66.2 km
Discover Spellbound Caithness, Thurso’s magical gift shop blending Highland enchantment, artisan crafts, and spiritual community in a unique creative haven.
The Cave
66.9 km
Discover The Cave in Thurso, a vibrant comic book shop offering graphic novels, collectibles, and a welcoming atmosphere for fans and newcomers alike.
Hallmark
66.9 km
Charming Hallmark gift shop in Thurso offering quality cards and thoughtful gifts in a historic setting at Sir John's Square.
The Kiln Store
67.0 km
Discover unique local crafts and thoughtful gifts in the heart of Thurso at The Kiln Store, a family-run treasure trove of northern Scottish heritage.
Buttress's
67.2 km
Discover unique fashion at Buttress's in Thurso, where style meets exceptional service in a cozy boutique setting.
Co-op Food - Thurso - Meadow Lane
67.2 km
Discover the convenience of Co-op Food in Thurso for all your shopping needs, offering local products and friendly service.
Eye Candy
67.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures in the heart of Thurso’s historic High Street at Eye Candy.
Nickel & Dime
67.2 km
Discover Nickel & Dime in Thurso: Your essential convenience store for snacks, drinks, and local flavors in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
The Original Factory Shop (Thurso)
67.2 km
Discover unbeatable deals on branded fashion, beauty, and footwear at The Original Factory Shop in Thurso’s bustling High Street.
Co-op Food - Brora - Gower Street
76.6 km
Discover the convenience of Co-op Food in Brora, the perfect stop for all your travel essentials and local products.
The Captain's Cabin
78.0 km
Discover a cozy treasure trove of Scottish gifts, crafts, and friendly service at Ullapool’s charming Captain's Cabin.
Caithness Gifts & Crafts
80.1 km
Discover authentic Highland artistry and unique handcrafted gifts at Caithness Gifts & Crafts in Thurso, celebrating the spirit of northern Scotland.
Jail Dornoch
83.5 km
Discover a historic former jail transformed into a charming gift shop with authentic Highland spirit and unique local treasures.
Simply The Best Fair Trade Gifts
83.6 km
Discover ethically crafted fair trade gifts supporting global artisans in the heart of Dornoch Retail Park.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Mr C's Bar
67.0 km
Lively cocktail bar in Thurso crafting fresh drinks with hand-selected spirits in a fun, welcoming atmosphere.
Top Joe's
67.1 km
A welcoming and lively pub in Thurso serving great Guinness, live sports, and a friendly Highland atmosphere.
The Grove Lounge
67.1 km
A cozy and lively bar in Thurso offering hearty food, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Dunnet Bay Escapes
77.4 km
Luxurious coastal retreat with stunning Dunnet Bay views, gourmet breakfasts, and serene hot tub relaxation in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
The Mey Hotel
84.2 km
Experience warm Highland hospitality, hearty Scottish fare, and cozy comfort at The Mey Hotel in scenic Thurso.
Platform 1864
89.5 km
Historic charm meets contemporary dining at Platform 1864, Tain’s beloved bar and restaurant in a stunning old train station.
The Village Inn
90.0 km
A cozy Highland village pub offering hearty meals, real ales, and warm hospitality in the scenic community of Keiss.
The Inver Inn
92.6 km
Cozy, dog-friendly pub in Tain’s Inver village serving fresh Scottish fare with warm hospitality and scenic Highland charm.
Harpers Bar
92.7 km
A lively and welcoming bar in Wick offering classic pub vibes, vibrant social scenes, and versatile event spaces.
Camps Bar
92.9 km
Wick’s oldest pub where historic charm meets lively local spirit and affordable drinks in a welcoming Highland setting.
Blackstairs Lounge
93.0 km
A cozy and lively bar in Wick offering flavorful curries, warm hospitality, and a vibrant social atmosphere.
Mountain Dew Bar
93.2 km
A friendly, affordable local pub in Wick offering authentic Highland hospitality and a perfect pint in a cozy setting.
Old Barn Bar
93.9 km
Authentic crofters’ barn pub with rustic charm, local flavors, and warm hospitality on the Isle of Lewis.
Cross Inn
93.9 km
A cozy, characterful inn and pub offering warm hospitality, excellent local food, and comfortable stays on the Isle of Lewis.
The Rip
94.5 km
A cozy bar on the Isle of Lewis where local culture, craft beers, and scenic beauty create a warm retreat for travelers and locals alike.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Adventurous
- Adrenaline-pumping
- Scenic
- Unique
For the architecture buff
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Nature Escape
- Roadtrip Stop
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Remote
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
