Discovering Durness by Motorhome: Complete Guide
Introduction
Welcome to Durness, the hidden gem of Scotland! Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip through this charming town? In our travel guide, you will discover the history of Durness, the best ways to get there, and the ideal time to visit.
We will reveal the best addresses for you to indulge in and savor local culinary specialties. And for vanlife enthusiasts, we will guide you to the most picturesque camper van spots.
So, get ready for unparalleled adventures, be amazed by the beauty of Durness, and explore all the exciting activities it has to offer. Let the adventure begin! Road Trip Durness, here we go!
Don’t like to read? A video is available further down in the article or by clicking here.
What is Durness – Scotland?
History of Durness
Well, let me tell you a thing or two about the fascinating history of the town of Durness in Scotland. Get ready to be amazed by tales of past battles, heroic Scottish clans, and breathtaking landscapes. So fasten your seatbelts and embark on this journey through time!
Durness, a hidden gem nestled in the far northwest of Scotland, has a history that dates back centuries. Ancient remains such as mysterious brochs and prehistoric stone circles bear witness to human presence since the Stone Age. Throughout the centuries, Durness has been the stage for many battles, especially during the Scottish Wars of Independence. Rival clans fought relentlessly to defend their honor and territory, and the surrounding hills were silent witnesses to these epic struggles.
But Durness is not only about bloody conflicts. This wild and unspoiled region is also renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. The dramatic cliffs, golden sandy beaches, and shimmering lochs create an enchanting tableau that attracts visitors from around the world.
Geographical Location
Located in the far northwest of Scotland, Durness is a small town that has the privilege of being surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Just imagine: the towering cliffs of Cape Wrath on one side, the deep blue Atlantic Ocean on the other, and in the middle, this charming locality that exudes tranquility and authenticity.
How to get to Durness?
To get to Durness by plane, the nearest national airports are in Inverness and Wick, about 160 kilometers from Durness. The nearest international airport is Aberdeen Airport, about 290 kilometers from Durness.
To get to Durness by train, the nearest national lines are the Inverness-Thurso and Inverness-Wick lines. These lines will take you to the nearest train stations to Durness.
To get to Durness by car or camper van from the capital of Scotland, Edinburgh, you will need to take the A9 north to Inverness. From there, you will need to take the A836 towards Durness. This main road will easily take you to your destination by car or camper van.
To access the United Kingdom, we didn’t go through the Tunnel or take the Ferry from Calais, we left from the Netherlands! From Rotterdam, it is quite possible to quickly reach the United Kingdom. So, just follow the East coast of the country to reach the wonderful world that is Scotland!
Climate: When to Visit Durness on a Road Trip?
| Month | Average Temp (°C) | Rainfall (mm) | Weather | Opinion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 2°/5° | 133mm | 🌧️ | Unfavorable |
| February | 2°/6° | 95mm | 🌧️ | Unfavorable |
| March | 3°/7° | 112mm | 🌧️ | Unfavorable |
| April | 4°/9° | 76mm | 🌦️ | Not very favorable |
| May | 7°/12° | 69mm | 🌦️ | Not very favorable |
| June | 10°/14° | 74mm | 🌦️ | Not very favorable |
| July | 12°/16° | 78mm | 🌦️ | Not very favorable |
| August | 12°/16° | 94mm | 🌧️ | Very unfavorable |
| September | 10°/14° | 99mm | 🌧️ | Very unfavorable |
| October | 8°/11° | 96mm | 🌧️ | Unfavorable |
| November | 4°/8° | 121mm | 🌦️ | Very unfavorable |
| December | 2°/6° | 103mm | 🌧️ | Unfavorable |
We can only recommend visiting Durness during the summer months, from June to August, when the temperatures are pleasant and the days are longer. This is the ideal time to enjoy the stunning landscapes of this Scottish town, explore dramatic cliffs, and sandy beaches. You can also attend local festivals and partake in outdoor activities such as hiking and surfing. So pack your bags and set off to discover Durness this summer!
Spots to Sleep and Camper Van Service Areas in Durness
- 📍🥇 Loch Eriboll: A beautiful loch surrounded by spectacular mountains.
- 📍🥈 Sango Sands Oasis: A unique campsite perched on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
- 📍🥉 Sangomore Beach: A picturesque beach offering panoramic views of the ocean and cliffs.
- 📍 Ceannabeinne Beach: A secluded beach nestled between mountains and the sea.
- 📍 Balnakeil Beach: An immaculate white sandy beach surrounded by sand dunes and wild landscapes.
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Among these spots, our choice fell on Sango Sands Oasis, a camping site on top of a cliff where we had a view of the sea. It truly offers an incredible panorama, although it was very windy when we were there. But what a delight, surely the camping site with the most beautiful view we have experienced during our road trip in Scotland.
Where and What to Eat in Durness?
Restaurants in Durness
- 🍽️ Mackays Hotel: A must-visit in Durness, Mackays Hotel offers traditional Scottish cuisine with a modern twist. The dishes are prepared with fresh local ingredients, showcasing the authentic flavors of the region.
- 🍽️ Sango Sands Oasis: Located by the sea, Sango Sands Oasis offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean while enjoying delicious dishes. The menu features a variety of fresh seafood, as well as vegetarian and vegan options to satisfy all palates.
- 🍽️ Cocoa Mountain Café: For chocolate lovers, Cocoa Mountain Café is a dream come true. This quaint café offers a selection of artisanal chocolates and delicious homemade desserts. Perfect for a sweet treat after a day of exploration in Durness.
- 🍽️ The Smoo Cave Hotel: Nestled near the famous Smoo Cave, The Smoo Cave Hotel is a charming place to dine. The menu showcases local produce, offering top-notch Scottish cuisine in a picturesque setting.
- 🍽️ The Cabin: With a warm and friendly atmosphere, The Cabin is a favorite spot for seafood lovers. You can enjoy fresh and tasty dishes while admiring the panoramic view of Balnakeil Beach.
Whether you are looking for traditional Scottish dishes, freshly caught seafood, or simply a nice place to relax and enjoy the view, Durness is filled with restaurants that will satisfy all food lovers. Bon appétit!
Durness Specialties
Durness culinary specialties are full of delightful treats. From creamy and decadent chocolate fudge to traditional buttery scones, each bite is an explosion of flavors that will delight your taste buds! Don’t miss out on haggis, an iconic Scottish dish made from sheep’s heart, lungs, and liver, usually accompanied by mashed potatoes and turnips. If you are looking for an authentic culinary experience, Durness is the perfect place to satisfy your food cravings!
Among these restaurants, we ate at Sango Sands Oasis in Durness and had a great time. The breathtaking view of the Atlantic Ocean added a magical touch to our meal. The fresh seafood was delicious, and the selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes was also greatly appreciated. The combination of flavors and careful presentation created an unforgettable culinary experience. If you are looking for a gastronomic experience with a stunning view, we highly recommend visiting Sango Sands Oasis.
Travel Budget for a Road Trip to Durness
The currency used in Scotland is the British Pound (GBP). Plan on a budget of at least £92 (approx. $125) per day per person.
– Meal in a mid-range restaurant: £25 (approx. $34)
– Fast-food menu: £6 (approx. $8)
– Local beer (50 cl draft): £4 (approx. $5)
– Single public transport ticket: £2.5 (approx. $3)
– Monthly public transport pass: £65 (approx. $88)
– Unleaded gasoline (1 liter): £1.4 (approx. $2)
– Budget hotel (room for two people): £58 (approx. $79)
– Mid-range hotel (room for two people): £89 (approx. $121)
– High-end hotel (room for two people): £148 (approx. $201)
– Pair of jeans (Levis 501 or equivalent): £58 (approx. $79)
– Summer dress in a major chain (Zara, H&M..): £29 (approx. $39)
– Pair of sports shoes: £62 (approx. $84)
If you’re an American planning a trip to Scotland, anticipate a daily budget of at least £92 (approx. $125). Meals in mid-range restaurants will cost around £25 ($34), and single public transport tickets are £2.5 ($3) each. Hotels range from £58 ($79) for a budget option to £148 ($201) for high-end accommodations. Shopping expenses can also add up, with jeans costing around £58 ($79) and sports shoes at £62 ($84). Don’t forget to account for the exchange rate and any potential foreign transaction fees in your budget.
Video of our city trip in this city
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What activities to do in Durness?
Here is a list of activities that we invite you to do in Durness according to your tastes and preferences:
– Admire the sunset on the beautiful beaches of Durness
– Stroll hand in hand along the cliffs of Cape Wrath
– Take a romantic boat trip to the Smoo caves
– Enjoy a picnic for two in the gardens of Balnakeil
– Book a room with a sea view in a charming bed and breakfast
– Visit the Durness museum to learn more about the history of the region
– Explore Smoo Cave and discover impressive rock formations
– Attend a traditional music concert in a local pub
– Take part in an evening of Scottish stories and legends
– Discover local craftsmanship by visiting Durness art galleries
– Go hiking on the Durness coastal path and enjoy the stunning landscapes
– Try surfing or paddleboarding on Durness’ beaches
– Go cycling along the scenic roads of the area
– Go rock climbing on the cliffs of Cape Wrath
– Play a round of golf with a view of the ocean
– Durness Music Festival, held every summer and showcasing local talents
– Durness Arts Festival, with exhibitions by local artists
– Durness Traditional Festival, featuring Scottish dances, games, and parades
– Annual canoeing and kayaking race on the River Dionard
– Durness Christmas Market, where you can find local products and handmade gifts
Conclusion: Why visit or return to Durness?
In conclusion, Durness is a stop where we had an extraordinary night after visiting the beautiful beaches of northern Scotland, which did not seem as beautiful to us at any moment. All along the north of this country, you stop to discover magnificent and still wild beaches.
FAQ
To get to Durness by car or camper van from the capital of Scotland, Edinburgh, you will need to take the A9 north to Inverness. From there, you will need to take the A836 towards Durness. This main road will easily take you to your destination by car or camper van.
We can only recommend visiting Durness during the summer months, from June to August, when the temperatures are pleasant and the days are longer. This is the ideal time to enjoy the stunning landscapes of this Scottish town, explore dramatic cliffs, and sandy beaches. You can also attend local festivals and partake in outdoor activities such as hiking and surfing. So pack your bags and set off to discover Durness this summer!
– Durness Music Festival, held every summer and showcasing local talents
– Durness Arts Festival, with exhibitions by local artists
– Durness Traditional Festival, featuring Scottish dances, games, and parades
– Annual canoeing and kayaking race on the River Dionard
– Durness Christmas Market, where you can find local products and handmade gifts
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