Smoo Cave in Durness
There are vague stories, likely based on some fact, of
the cave being a smugglers' hideaway and linked
with tales of the supernatural.
It was formally believed to be the abode of spirits
who guarded this entrance to the nether world. The
first Lord of Reay (Donald Mackay, Chief of Clan
Mackay) met with the Devil on several occasions and
was able to get the better of him. The Prince of
Darkness was none too pleased about this and
followed Donald Mackay to Durness where he sought
to waylay him in Smoo Cave. Lord Reay was heading
for the cavern just before dawn but had the good
fortune to send his dog into the blackness in front of
him. When the animal came out howling and hairless
the master of Reay realised what lay in store for him.
He held back for a moment and in that moment the
sun rose. In the light of day, the Devil was powerless
and left through the roof of the cave leaving the
three holes seen today.