Discover Durness: Coastal Walks, Golf and Culture

Durness is a destination for anyone looking to include coastal walks, hiking, golf or culture in their stay. Options range from short walking trails and longer coastal and gravel routes to a links course and local cultural sites. When choosing a hotel in Durness, it helps to first consider which of these activities you want to shape your stay. Durness is also an important part of the North West Highlands Geopark.

Routes between the coast, beach and gravel paths

The Durness Path Network comprises eight routes in and around Durness. There are hiking opportunities in Durness and the surrounding area for all experience levels. The individual route descriptions show different ways to get out and about, from short walks to longer coastal or gravel paths.

The Faraid Head route is an approximately 4 km coastal walk starting at Balnakeil Bay. The roughly 5 km Kyle of Durness route also starts from the same bay; it is a remote coastal walk with dramatic views and unspoilt beaches. Comparing the routes directly, Faraid Head is the shorter of the two; the Kyle of Durness route also offers the specifically described views and beaches, as well as a remote setting.

The Old Manse Track is a short walk below Balnakeil Craft Village. The Aodann Path (Edens) is approximately 4 km long and is described as a beach and cliff path; it can lead to Balnakeil Beach and its ruined church. The roughly 6 km Bhlar-Duibhe route offers a different experience: it is a circular route on a gravel track used by mountain bikers. The network therefore offers a choice of short walks, coastal and cliff paths, and a gravel circuit.

Golf, culture and history

Durness Golf Club has a 9-hole links course. A second set of tees makes an 18-hole experience possible. A shot over a sea inlet is required at the 9th or 18th hole. Playing conditions may change.

The John Lennon Memorial Garden features lyrics from Beatles songs. Seating offers expansive views of the surrounding mountains. Local artists and businesses work at Balnakeil Craft Village in the Durness area. The work on offer includes, among other things, paintings and prints, ceramics, woodwork and glasswork, as well as other distinctive crafts. Which businesses and works are represented at any given time may change over time.

Smoo Cave has been designated a Scheduled Monument since December 1992. Deposits discovered on its eastern side may date back to the Mesolithic period. This offers a different perspective on the area from today's paths and leisure activities: the focus here is on its designated status as a monument and a possible connection to earlier periods.

Plan your journey and excursions

Access to Cape Wrath is by passenger ferry across the Kyle of Durness, followed by minibus. Check availability and timetables before your trip. This lets you plan this part of your stay around the necessary stages, rather than assuming it is a connection available at any time.

The Durness Bus runs between Durness and Lairg, with services to Inverness and Thurso on Saturdays. Check the timetable before travelling. If driving, the final 52 miles from Dornoch and Inverness to Durness are on single-track roads. Bus services and the road layout are specific points to consider when choosing your travel dates and planning your stay.

Discover more destinations: Roybridge, Torridon, Camusbane, Mybster, Inverness, Mey, Glenelg, Kentallen.

For the regional travel overview: Highland.