Visiting Islay? Why you can’t miss out on Jura!
When you get so close to something special, it’s almost criminal not to go the extra mile. And if you’ve made it to Islay, you’re almost within touching distance of neighbouring Jura.
Hop on the ferry and you’ll reach this unique island in just ten minutes.
Things to see & do on Jura
So, what makes Jura special? There’s simply nowhere quite like it in the whole of Scotland. Mountainous, wild and sparsely populated, it couldn’t be more different from Islay. Jura is the eighth largest Scottish island and yet only around 200 people live here. The deer population, by contrast, numbers between 6000 and 7,000.
The island’s distinctive peaks, the Paps of Jura, offer fantastic hillwalking, and intrepid hikers can explore the uninhabited – and otherwise inaccessible – west coast. The island is also home to the historic Isle of Jura distillery, which is well worth a visit. More into gin? Head to Lussa Gin further North to tour their gin distillery and try their gin.
Follow in the footsteps of George Orwell
George Orwell famously moved to Jura in 1946 to give himself ‘six months’ quiet’ to write a novel (Nineteen Eighty-Four). Orwell is often quoted as describing Jura as very un-get-at-able. In fact, that’s not quite what he said. Before he had moved there, when describing specifically the location of Barnhill, the house he rented, he said: ‘It is in an extremely un-get-at-able place’, i.e. at the end of a six-mile-long rutted track that his visitors would have to negotiate on foot. By contrast, once he was settled in and when encouraging friends to visit, Orwell was at pains to point out that they could get from London to Jura by train and ferry in 24 hours – probably about the same time as it would take by surface travel today!
The Gulf of Corryvreckan
From the northern tip of the island, you can see the magnificent, but at times terrifying, Gulf of Corryvreckan. With its whirlpools, powerful currents and standing waves, this stretch of water lying between Jura and Scarba is considered by sailors to be one of the most treacherous anywhere in the British Isles. If you want to experience some of the thrill of the Corryvreckan without (most of) the danger, boat trips are available with Jura Boat Tours.
Enjoy Jura's Wildlife
One thing you’ll definitely see if you visit Jura is red deer. Some sources say the island’s name derives from the Norse for deer. These magnificent creatures, Britain’s largest land mammals, are everywhere. The stags can be huge, easily weighing up to 17 stone and more.
If you want to truly experience Jura and get up close to its local wildlife, join a tour with Jura Guided. With an islander as your guide, you can explore Jura’s hidden gems that you might not find on your own. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned hiker, Jura Guided will craft a bespoke walk for you, bursting with natural wonders, dramatic views and island stories.
Where to stay on Jura
The popular Jura Hotel is just next door to Jura Distillery in Craighouse. It’s a relaxed and friendly place, and the lively bar, which is the island's only pub, is a great place to enjoy a dram or two. There’s also a camping field in front of the hotel.
Do you prefer a self-catering option? Lorne Cottage is located only a short stroll from Craighouse Village. With stunning views over Small Isles Bay, the holiday cottage is only a stone's throw from the beach, making it a fantastic base for your relaxing island holiday.
Lastly, Bothan Jura Retreat is a brilliant self-catering option for those seeking a space to unwind, reconnect and explore with hot tubs & sauna.
