Durness is a remote township in the northwestern Highlands of Scotland, lying on the Kyle of Durness . There is only one single track road in and one road out of the village. The main sources of employment in the village are crofting and tourism.

The main attractions in Durness are Smoo Cave, a sea cave with a small river running through it and a waterfall in wet weather, unspolit beaches backed by cliffs, and the surrounding sea birds, seals and porpoises.

Tourists are catered for by a campsite spectacularly sited on the cliffs above the beach, by bed & breakfast accommodation, and by a hotel.

In the substantial sand dunes to the north of the village, a large colony of puffins can be approached to within less than 10 metres, offering superb opportunity for wildlife photography.

Some miles to the north west lies a military firing range known as Garvie Range used by RAF, Royal Navy and USAF aircraft. A rocky islet resmbling a ship is used for bombing practice. Although explosions can be heard, and seen with binoculars, they are sufficently far away to avoid disturbing the colonies of sea birds.

A few miles east of Durness lies Loch Eriboll, known for its otters and minke whales. During World War II it was used to station naval troops, and the island in its centre was used as a bombing target as it resembles a battleship. The loch is sometimes used as a safe harbour by large ships during stormy weather.

The village is also used as a base by visitors to Cape Wrath.

External Links

Undiscovered Scotland - Durness