Durness Smoo Youth Hostel

We welcome the recent announcement by the Scottish Government on the responsible lifting of restrictions and are delighted to be able to plan for the re-opening of our self-catering kitchens from 1st November. Drying room facilities are now available at many of our hostels but we would ask you to please contact the hostel team directly to allow them to manage your access. The health, safety and wellbeing of our guests, employees and the communities in which we operate remains our main priority at this time. For more information on what to expect when staying with us please visit the FAQ's section of this website.

As you’ll appreciate, advice on Covid-19 is constantly changing and we would ask all our guests to continue to refer to Scottish Government guidelines and Transport Scotland advice on travel and social distancing when making their booking. Please remember, this guidance may be different in England and Wales.  

Sitting on the famous NC500, surrounded by a wild and spectacular landscape, Durness Smoo offers a true hostelling experience in simple, relaxed and welcoming accommodation.

A refuge from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, the hostel is an ideal base for exploring the local area, and offers guests a range of comfortable private and shared rooms. None of the rooms are en-suite but ample shower and washroom facilities are available.

Guests can opt for a ‘Wee Breakfast’ of cereal, Scottish yogurt, fresh fruit, tea and coffee, or take advantage of the well-equipped self-catering kitchen. Packed lunches are available for groups of 5+ if booked in advance and 'heat it and eat it' evening meals are available to purchase for your convenience. The hostel is licensed so you can enjoy a local ale, malt whisky or glass of wine while relaxing in the hostel’s cosy lounge with its coal-burning stove.

WiFi is available in the communal areas (lounge, kitchen and dining room) and is free for all guests. Other facilities include a small drying room and secure cycle storage. Basic provisions, confectionery and soft drinks are available to purchase at reception and local shops are only a 15 minute walk away.

The hostel has parking facilities for up to six cars and guests are welcome to use the car park at the nearby Smoo Caves, one of the area’s most spectacular attractions.

On a clear night the starry skies are incredible and if you’re lucky you might even catch the Northern Lights.

Durness Smoo is a dog-friendly hostel. If you would like to book yourself and your dog into the hostel, please phone the hostel direct on +44 (0) 1971 511 264 to check availability. There is a small charge of £5 per night for your dog when staying in our hostels.

The hostel is also available for exclusive private rental.

For information on hostel accessibility please click here

Why stay?

• Friendly, welcoming staff
• Unique, unspoilt location on the NC500
• Private rooms available
• Luggage store

Located on the North Coast 500 and surrounded by wild and spectacular landscape, Durness Smoo offers a relaxed and friendly base to explore the local area from mountains to sea cliffs, beaches and waterfalls. On a clear night the starry skies are incredible, made even more memorable if you're lucky enough to catch the Northern Lights.

With its rocky coastline, turquoise waters and sweeping golden sands, Durness Beach is a perfect example of the spectacular scenery you will find in the North West Highlands.

With three huge chambers and a 20 metre high waterfall through its heart, Smoo Cave is Britain’s biggest sea cave and a marvellous sight. Legend even has it that the cave is home to the spirits who guard the entrance to the netherworld. Explore the mystical cave before stretching your legs on the Smoo Cave and Bhlar Duibhe walk, an enjoyable circular route through open moorland and a popular choice with birdwatchers. 

From wildlife to natural wonders and ancient history, Durness captures Scotland at its best!