A coastal walk from Balnakeil Bay, a tee shot over a sea inlet and Beatles lyrics in a garden show the range of experiences in Durness. There are practical points to help you choose a destination: walks of varying lengths and surfaces, golf with two possible ways to play, and places to explore crafts and cultural history. You can decide what to focus on depending on whether you would rather hike, play golf or visit cultural attractions.
Coastal paths and walks
The Durness Path Network comprises eight routes in and around Durness. There are walking opportunities for all experience levels in Durness and the surrounding area; conditions on individual paths can change. The Old Manse Track is a short walking path below Balnakeil Craft Village.
Two coastal walks of different lengths start at Balnakeil Bay: the Faraid Head route is around 4 km long, while the Kyle of Durness route is about 5 km. The latter is a remote coastal walk with dramatic views and unspoilt beaches. Their approximate lengths are similar, but the remote setting and beaches give the Kyle of Durness route a distinct character.
The Aodann (Edens) path is an approximately 4 km beach and cliff walk that can lead to Balnakeil Beach and its ruined church. The Bhlar-Duibhe route has a different character: it is around 6 km long, follows a gravel track in a loop and is used by mountain bikers. While Faraid Head and Kyle of Durness both start at Balnakeil Bay, Bhlar-Duibhe differs in its circular route and surface.
Scenery, culture and crafts
Durness is an important part of the North West Highlands Geopark. The John Lennon Memorial Garden features lyrics from Beatles songs; seating there offers expansive views of the surrounding mountains. Smoo Cave has been designated a Scheduled Monument since December 1992. Deposits found on its eastern side may date back to the Mesolithic period.
In the area around Durness, Balnakeil Craft Village is home to local artists and businesses. The works on offer include paintings and prints, ceramics, woodwork and glasswork, as well as other distinctive crafts. The businesses' offerings may change over time. Durness and its surroundings therefore offer a range of cultural interests: Beatles lyrics and mountain views in the garden, the scheduled cave and crafts at the craft village.
Golf with two ways to play
Durness Golf Club has a 9-hole links course. A second set of tees also allows for an 18-hole experience. At the 9th or 18th hole, the tee shot crosses a sea inlet. The course configuration is permanent; playing conditions may change.
Getting there and transport links
The Durness Bus provides services between Durness and Lairg, as well as Saturday services to Inverness and Thurso. Check the timetable before travelling. When travelling from Dornoch and Inverness, the last 52 miles to Durness are on single-track roads; take this section into account when planning your journey.
In the Durness area, access to Cape Wrath involves taking a passenger ferry across the Kyle of Durness, followed by a minibus. Check the operator's availability and timetables before your trip. This allows you to consider bus services, driving or the special access to Cape Wrath as different planning options.
Discover more destinations: Thurso, Cononbridge, Ullapool, Strathan, Knockbain, Rosemarkie, Forres, Nethy Bridge.
For the wider travel overview: Highland.
