Durness Smoo Youth Hostel

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 mixed gendered shared rooms. None of the rooms are en-suite but ample shower and washroom facilities are available.

Guests need to be aged 18 and over to be accommodated in the mixed gendered shared rooms.

Children under the age of 18 can only be accommodated in a private room accompanied by an adult.


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. 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 free for all guests and 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 to check availability for a private room. There is a small charge of £7.50 per night for your dog when staying in our hostels.

The hostel is also available for exclusive private rental.