Smoo Cave: Scotland’s Majestic Sea Cave with Waterfall and Hidden Chambers
Explore Britain’s largest sea cave with a stunning waterfall, hidden chambers, and rich history in Scotland’s wild North West Highlands.
Smoo Cave, located near Durness in Scotland’s North West Highlands, is Britain’s largest sea cave entrance, formed by both sea and freshwater erosion. Visitors can explore its vast main chamber, admire a dramatic 20-metre waterfall cascading into a deep pool, and join guided boat tours to discover hidden inner chambers rich in geological and archaeological history. Open year-round with free access to the cave entrance and seasonal guided tours, Smoo Cave offers a unique natural spectacle amid stunning coastal scenery.
A brief summary to Smoo Cave
- Smoo, Lairg, Durness, IV27 4QA, GB
- +441971511492
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 2 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit between April and October to join the guided boat tours exploring the cave’s inner chambers.
- Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear as the cave interior can be wet and slippery.
- Arrive early during peak season to secure parking in the free car park above the cave.
- Check weather conditions before your visit, as heavy rain can flood the cave and cancel tours.
- Allow at least 1 hour to explore the cave and nearby coastal walks for panoramic views.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Parking
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Durness village center, the journey to Smoo Cave takes about 5 to 10 minutes on local roads. There is a free car park at the top of the cave with limited spaces, so arriving early during peak season is recommended. Parking charges apply for overflow areas nearby, ranging from £1 per hour to £20 for 24 hours.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Durness with nearby towns such as Thurso and Ullapool, with travel times around 2 hours. From Durness, a short taxi or walk is needed to reach Smoo Cave. Bus services are infrequent and seasonal, so check schedules in advance.
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Walking
From the Smoo Cave car park, a steep path with steps and a footbridge leads down to the cave entrance. The walk takes approximately 5 to 10 minutes and involves uneven terrain, making it unsuitable for those with mobility impairments.
Smoo Cave location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Smoo Cave
Geological Wonder Carved by Sea and Freshwater
Smoo Cave is a remarkable natural formation nestled in the limestone cliffs of the Geodha Smoo inlet near Durness. Its entrance is the largest sea cave opening in Britain, measuring approximately 40 metres wide and 15 metres high, creating an imposing gateway to the cavern within. The cave’s formation is unique, shaped by the combined forces of sea erosion and freshwater dissolution from the Allt Smoo stream, which plunges through a sinkhole as a spectacular 20-metre waterfall into the cave’s freshwater lake. This dynamic interplay of water sources continues to shape the cave’s interior.Exploration and Chambers of Intrigue
Stretching over 83 metres in length, Smoo Cave contains three main chambers. Visitors enter the vast main chamber where natural light filters through, illuminating moss-covered walls and revealing skylight openings. A wooden walkway and bridge lead to the second chamber, home to the waterfall and a deep pool. Beyond this, guided boat tours operate seasonally from April to October, weather permitting, allowing adventurers to explore the third chamber accessible only by water. This inner chamber features a natural stream passage and stepping stones, offering a rare glimpse into the cave’s hidden depths.Rich Archaeological and Cultural Heritage
Smoo Cave is not only a geological marvel but also a site of historical significance. Archaeological excavations have uncovered Norse artifacts, Iron Age middens, and Neolithic pottery, indicating human presence over millennia. The cave’s dramatic setting inspired literary figures such as Sir Walter Scott, who described it as a fitting home for a water kelpie, weaving local folklore into its mystique. The surrounding Geodha Smoo gorge, once the cave’s roof, adds to the dramatic landscape and invites visitors to explore further.Visitor Experience and Practical Details
The cave entrance is freely accessible year-round, with a steep path and footbridge descending from a free car park above. The main chamber and waterfall chamber can be explored on foot, while guided boat tours into the inner chamber require a ticket (£15 adults, £5 children) and operate only in favorable weather. Tours last about 30 minutes and include informative commentary on the cave’s geology and history. Visitors are advised to wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for wet conditions inside the cave. The area also offers scenic coastal walks with panoramic views over Sango Bay and Loch Eriboll.Natural Setting and Surrounding Attractions
Smoo Cave is set within a wild and rugged coastal environment, part of Scotland’s North West Highlands. The nearby cliffs and beaches provide stunning vistas, especially at sunset when golden light floods the cave entrance. The cave is a highlight on the North Coast 500 route and pairs well with visits to Balnakeil Beach, Cape Wrath, and Loch Stack. Wildlife such as birds and bats inhabit the cave, adding to the natural ambiance. The site is managed with care, featuring visitor facilities including parking, restrooms, and information boards.Seasonal Variations and Accessibility Considerations
While the cave entrance is open all year, guided tours are seasonal and weather-dependent, running from April through October. Heavy rainfall can cause flooding, temporarily suspending tours for safety. The path to the cave involves steep steps and rough terrain, making it unsuitable for those with mobility difficulties. Visitors should check weather conditions and tour availability in advance. Despite these challenges, Smoo Cave offers an unforgettable encounter with Scotland’s dramatic natural heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Stoer Lighthouse
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Braal Castle
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Duke Of Sutherland Monument
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Monument to Harriet, Duchess of Sutherland
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Above and Beyond Tours
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Stromness Museum
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Cairn of Get
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Unmissable attractions to see
Durness Beach
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Discover the wild, golden sands and tranquil beauty of Durness Beach, a remote Highland gem where sea meets rugged cliffs.
Golden Eagle Zip Line in Durness
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Britain's most northerly zipline: 37 meters of pure adrenaline above the Atlantic.
Balnakeil Church
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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
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Castle Varrich
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Norse Bakehouse
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Am Buachaille
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Broch Dun Dornaigil
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North West Sutherland National Scenic Area
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Polin Beach
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Torrisdale beach
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Farr Beach Bettyhill
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Farr Bay, Bettyhill
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Strathnaver Museum
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Assynt Viewpoint
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Essential places to dine
Tongue Hotel
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The Store Bistro & Bar
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Shorehouse Restaurant
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Scourie Hotel
34.4 km
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Eddrachilles Hotel
35.8 km
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Kylesku Hotel
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The Crask Inn
43.7 km
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Halladale Inn
46.9 km
Cozy Highland inn and bistro in Melvich offering hearty Scottish fare, welcoming hospitality, and excellent touring park facilities.
Lochinver Larder
54.7 km
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Delilah's
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An Cala Café
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The Pier
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A charming lakeside café in Lairg offering local produce, panoramic Loch Shin views, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
The Ferry Inn Scrabster
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Capilla Tapas Restaurant
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Captain's Galley Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
London Stores
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Spellbound Caithness
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Discover Spellbound Caithness, Thurso’s magical gift shop blending Highland enchantment, artisan crafts, and spiritual community in a unique creative haven.
The Cave
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Hallmark
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The Kiln Store
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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
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Co-op Food - Thurso - Meadow Lane
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Eye Candy
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Nickel & Dime
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The Original Factory Shop (Thurso)
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The Captain's Cabin
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Co-op Food - Brora - Gower Street
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Jail Dornoch
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Simply The Best Fair Trade Gifts
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Mr C's Bar
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Top Joe's
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The Grove Lounge
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Cross Inn
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The Rip
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The Inver Inn
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Camps Bar
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Mountain Dew Bar
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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The Waterfront
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the architecture buff
- Natural
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Sunset Spots
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
