Scotland is a land of geological wonders, merging multiple ancient continents into one. What if I told you that the largest sea cave in the UK is just as unique, merging a sea cave and a freshwater cave together?
Located in Durness, which is the most North-Westerly spot in mainland Scotland, the Smoo Cave boasts a fascinating geological duality – being a sea cave AND a freshwater cave, with the freshwater part boasting a massive 25-metre waterfall. The waterfall provides a stunning view once inside, cascading from the sinkhole at the top of the cave from the Allt Smoo stream.
The largest sea cave in the UK
Formed along two geological lines from the Early Ordovician Dolomites of the Durness Group, the cave comprises the light grey Sangomore Formation and the dark grey, mottled Sailmhor Formation.
The sea-side of the cave was formed by sea erosion over time, while the deeper freshwater part was formed by an inland underground stream and rainwater, shaping the innermost chambers.
The entrance to the Smoo Cave is a whopping 15 metres high and 40 metres wide, making it the largest sea cave in the UK, as it’s located on the sea part.
The accessible part of the Smoo Cave is 83 metres (272 ft) long, consisting of three chambers; however, the cave is larger and is believed to have an underwater passage to about 100 metres (330 ft) upstream from the main waterfall. As a result, the cave could be twice as long as initially believed, as that part has not yet been fully explored.
Visiting Smoo Cave
Visiting Smoo Cave is quite straightforward, and there is a car park and toilet facilities for tourists, as well as walkways and stairs. It takes around five minutes to get to the cave from the car park, and the walkway is free of charge. After exploring the cave, visitors can also enjoy panoramic views over the cave and the seafront.
What is more, guests can embark on a Smoo Cave boat tour to explore the inner chamber, depending on the weather and conditions. Visitors should keep in mind that the tour is cash only, available from April to October.
