The Bone Caves
take a dog walk on the wild side
Inchnadamph, Assynt, Highland, IV27 4HN
Visit WebsiteHidden away on a quiet corner of Scotland’s North Coast 500, the Bone Caves near Inchnadamph offer a dog walk on the wild side. Unleash your inner explorer and follow in the footsteps of Scotland’s prehistoric inhabitants to discover caves where the bones of reindeer, lynx and even a polar bear have been unearthed, all the while marvelling at the sheer scale of the landscape around you.
- Multiple Dogs Allowed
- Parking
- Rural Walks
Good to know
Overview
Carved out by the melting ice at the end of the last Ice Age, the valley which leads to the Bone Caves is carpeted with bracken and heather, and offers a visual spectacle whenever you choose to visit. Dogs will love the freedom to explore and water-loving pups can splash to their heart’s content in the gentle river which acts as your main land mark. Dogs are welcome at the Bone Caves, like most outdoor spaces, but make sure you respect the countryside code and any deer stalking restrictions.
People and pups alike will enjoy the relative peace and solitude offered on this quiet walk – although there’s usually enough people around to be able to ask for directions if you lose your bearings! That’s the perfect level of popular, if you ask us.
Take a few snacks to enjoy once you’ve climbed up to the caves themselves. If it’s cold, a flask of hot chocolate is the perfect way to keep yourself warm once you’ve stopped moving. While the inner chambers of the caves are inaccessible to the public, a number of antechambers are more than large enough for you to sit and enjoy the view while you get your breath back.
The walk to the caves takes a few hours, so once you’ve finished your walk why not hop in the car and head to the dog friendly Kylesku Hotel for lunch, where you and your canine companion will receive a warm welcome. We’d recommend booking in advance as tables can be in high demand.
For The Dogs
Take a tick hook along with you as deer are plentiful in the area. Treats and poop bags are a backpack staple!
Opening Hours
There are no opening hours as such, but daylight is recommended, as the path is uneven in places.
Parking
There is a free car park signposted off the A837. The nearest postcode is IV27 4HN.
The Area
Part of the North West Highlands Geopark, Assynt is one of Scotland’s best outdoor adventure playgrounds. For more caves, you can reach the Traligill Caves on foot from the village of Inchnadamph, although these caves are not as accessible as the Bone Caves and should only be admired from the outside. If you’re feeling energetic, why not tackle one of the area’s many spectacular peaks, from the small but steep Stac Pollaidh to the instantly recognisable Suilven? For panoramic views with slightly less effort, wander along the River Inver, or take a trip to the lighthouse at Stoer and amble along the cliffs. On a clear day you can see all the way to the Isle of Harris!
For more walks, pubs and places to stay, see our guide to dog friendly Scotland.
