Things to do in Durness
Sightseeing and activities in Durness
Ten miles east of Cape Wrath on the North Coast 500 is Durness, Scotland’s most northwesterly village. It’s a haven for hill walkers and mountain climbers, with exceptionally beautiful beaches and dramatic scenery. Other attractions include Smoo Cave, Durness Golf Course, Balnakeil Craft Village and Europe’s most northerly zip line.
See also:
Arts & Crafts
Durness has a thriving community of contemporary artists and craft makers.
Balnakeil Craft Village & Café
Durness artists’ studios, café and local businesses housed in the old military listening station. Great for gifts and lunch.
- Distance: 36 miles.
- Visit Balnakeil Craft Village
Lotte Glob Ceramics, Loch Eriboll
World-famous ceramic artist inspired by the landscape and geology of Sutherland. Most amazing blue colours.
- Distance: 50 miles.
- Check website for open days, otherwise by appointment only.
- Visit Lotte Glob
Outdoor attractions
The best outdoor activities in Durness include stunning beaches and John Lennon Memorial Garden.
Golden Eagle Zip Lines
The best North Coast activity for thrill seekers! Soar like a bird above the cliffs on zipwire. One for the bucket list!
- Distance: 35 miles.
- Visit Golden Eagle Zip Lines
Smoo Cave, Durness
Spectacular sea and freshwater cave with fascinating geology and hidden waterfall. Take the boat in. Great for kids!
- Distance: 35 miles.
- Visit Smoo Cave
Durness Golf Course
By the beach at Balnakeil. One of the most picturesque golf courses in Scotland.
- Distance: 35 miles.
- Visit Durness Golf Course
John Lennon Memorial Garden
John Lennon of The Beatles used to spend his childhood holidays with his aunt in Durness. The memorial garden was created together with Beechgrove Garden.
- Distance: 35 miles.
- Visit John Lennon Memorial Garden
Walks & Wildlife
Durness is a spectacular and uncrowded place for wildlife and bird watching.
Balnakeil Beach
White sand pristine beach with magnificent dunes. Known across Scotland for its spectacular sunsets.
- Distance: 35 miles.
- Visit Balnakeil Beach
- See also: Beaches near Kylesku Hotel
Faraid Head
Great views over Cape Wrath. Nesting seabirds, including puffins, in summer and grey seal sightings year round.
- Distance: 35 miles.
- Visit Faraid Head
- See also: Walking & Hillwalking
- Cape Wrath Mini Bus Service
- Durness Highland Gathering
Things to do in Sutherland
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Sutherland is the heart of the North Coast 500 route close to wild Cape Wrath. Discover breathtaking beaches, lochs and unspoilt Scottish wilderness.
Things to do in Ullapool
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Discover Ullapool, a beautiful fishing village and ferry port on Loch Broom. Enjoy the bustling arts and music scene and try one of the excellent eateries.