![\"Sango](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/0_Sango-Bay-beach-at-Durness.jpg\")
The settlement is situated in the far north of Scotland(Image: StockSolutions \/ Getty Images)<\/p>\nThe north of Scotland<\/a> is an amazing spot for a staycation, home to some of the country’s most rugged landscapes and picturesque views. While there are many towns and villages along the northern coast, few are as stunning as Durness.<\/p>\n As the Daily Record previously reported, Durness was once crowned<\/a> among the “prettiest villages” in the country. Travel experts at Travelness described the village as “absolutely beautiful”, singling out its picturesque nearby bays.<\/p>\n Unsurprisingly, the highlight of Durness is its beach. The mesmerising sandy bay is ideal for a walk, or even a picnic, on a sunny day<\/a>.<\/p>\n READ MORE: The tiny Stirling village that is home to ‘best campsite in Scotland’<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n READ MORE: The Scottish town just outside Glasgow that was called ‘slice of hell’<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n Durness Beach is renowned for its tranquil waters, with surfers often spotted off the coast. While small, the beach is the perfect place for a quiet afternoon out<\/a>.<\/p>\n However, those who are looking for a larger beach to explore should head to the nearby Balnakeil Beach. This wide white sandy beach is backed by big dunes that are home to a variety of wildlife<\/a>.<\/p>\n In terms of other things to do in the area, one of the most unique attractions is without a doubt Smoo Cave. The natural cave, which took millions of years to form, is open for tours throughout the year.<\/p>\n Elsewhere, Cape Wrath is the place to head for a breathtaking coastal walk\u2014with the Cape Wrath Lighthouse providing an incredible backdrop. It is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, as well as a Special Protection Area for birds.<\/p>\n Despite its small size and relative remoteness, Durness offers a few options when it comes to holiday accommodation. Visitors can choose from a number of cottages and hotels in the area.<\/p>\n One holiday home in the area that can be rented out is The Wee Housey<\/a>, which can be booked for four nights for \u00a31,160 on holidaycottages.co.uk<\/a>. The cottage has two bedrooms and sleeps four guests.<\/p>\n Inside, there is a lounge with views out over Sango Bay and a “very well-equipped” kitchen and diner, while each bedroom has its own balcony.<\/p>\n There is also a garden with seating areas for al fresco dining, benefitting from views across the surrounding countryside.<\/p>\n The Wee Housey has earned very positive reviews from guests on holidaycottages.co.uk<\/a>, who have described the property as “fabulous” and “breathtaking”. However, those travelling with a larger group may prefer something bigger in size.<\/p>\n Another accommodation option in the area is The Cottage at Mackay’s<\/a>, which is available through Airbnb. Sleeping up to six guests, it is priced at \u00a32,252 for seven nights.<\/p>\n The property includes a modern kitchen, a dining area with an oak table, an open-plan living space, and two bathrooms. There are also three “gorgeous” bedrooms, with the master described as a “quiet sanctuary”.<\/p>\n The Cottage at Mackay’s<\/a> has been praised by guests on Airbnb<\/a> for its “gorgeous location” and “perfect veranda”. However, the most recent review of the property was posted in June of 2024.<\/p>\n![\"Smoo](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/0_Smoo-Cave-with-waterfall-illuminated-by-natural-daylight-Sutherland-Scotland.jpg\")
Smoo Cave is an incredible natural beauty spot(Image: Spencer Bowman \/ Getty Images)<\/p>\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/0_The-Wee-Housey-exterior.jpg\")
The Wee Housey(Image: holidaycottages.co.uk)<\/p>\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/0_The-Cottage-at-Mackays-exterior.jpg\")
The Cottage at Mackay’s(Image: Airbnb)<\/p>\n