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Macfarquhar’s Bed

Cave

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Coastal, Caves, Cliffs

Walking, Photography

After heavy rain

Photo: Julian Paren via Geograph.org.uk

Salty coastal winds howl through the massive twin openings of Macfarquhar’s Bed, an extraordinary coastal formation carved deeply into the rugged sandstone cliffs of the Black Isle. Named after a legendary seventeenth-century smuggler who allegedly used the remote caverns to evade revenue officers, ...

2

Parking nearby

0

Food Spots nearby

0

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

1 day, 1 overnight

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Macfarquhar’s Bed?
Salty coastal winds buffet the massive twin openings of this coastal formation on the Black Isle. Hikers usually reach the dramatic world of natural architecture by walking along the rugged sandstone cliffs of the Moray Firth.

What type of place is Macfarquhar’s Bed?
Macfarquhar’s Bed is a sea cave on the Black Isle peninsula in Scotland.

When is the best time to visit Macfarquhar’s Bed?
Heavy rain creates the most dramatic atmosphere for viewing the rushing water networks nearby. People should also check the local tide tables to ensure safe access to the rocky harbour.

What can you do at Macfarquhar’s Bed?
Walking across the seaweed-covered boulders provides an intense sense of maritime isolation. Explorers also enjoy photographing the spectacular natural stone arch and the bizarre rock outcrop resembling a whale's jaw.

How long should I spend at Macfarquhar’s Bed?
Spending around an hour allows ample time to venture inside the dark recesses and appreciate the transformed coastal perspective. Anyone planning a longer coastal walk towards Cromarty can easily include this as a primary stop.

Where do I park at Macfarquhar’s Bed?
Vehicles can use the two available spaces nearby, providing 1 day and 1 overnight spot. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Macfarquhar’s Bed?
There are no food spots recorded immediately near Macfarquhar’s Bed, check the UK Hidden Gems app for the nearest options.

Where can I stay near Macfarquhar’s Bed?
There are no staycation spots recorded immediately near Macfarquhar’s Bed, check the UK Hidden Gems app for the nearest options.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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