United Kingdom
By journeying as far north-west as you can on the British mainland you will arrive at the village of Durness and on its western edge is the magnificent beach of Balnakeil Bay – which itself is but part of the fascinating promontory of Farhaid Head. Facing westward towards Cape Wrath and the towering sea-cliffs of Clo Mor, the beach and extensive sand dunes are wonderfully devoid of any detracting 'tourist infrastructure'; so this will appeal to the more active/outdoor visitor. The nearby rocky shoreline abounds with a great diversity of sea-birds - Puffins, Terns, Razorbills, Fulmars, Kittiwakes and Gannets. The underwater scenery is equally mesmerising and the clarity of the water compares with the Caribbean. For good measure, don't miss a visit to the massive Smoo Cave on the eastern seashore of Durness. Accommodation in Durness includes the Youth Hostel (SYHA) and the Lazy Crofter Bunkhouse.
www.durness.org
Lazy Crofter Bunkhouse: www.visitdurness.com/lazy-crofter-bunkhouse/
Durness,Sutherland, Scotland, IV27 4PN
+44(0)1971511202
Google map: bit.ly/UrWQBA
Probably the best beach in the Highlands with beautiful dunes at the far end. Walk up there and climb to the top of them and, in the summer, you are in a Puffin colony and you can just lay down and have them come and look at you.
Add the drive from Ullapool by Loch Assynt and it's the best day trip in Scotland.
By Durness and Balnakiel Craft village
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