Visiting Islay? Why you can’t miss out on Jura!
Scotland's Adventure CoastWhen 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.
Jura is known for its wild landscapes, rugged coastline and rich wildlife. In fact, the deer population of the island is reckoned to be between 6,000 to 7,000 – whereas only 200 people call Jura their home! From wildlife watching to spectacular hill walking and sampling of local spirits, there's plenty to discover on this Hebridean gem.
So, hop on the ferry and you’ll reach this unique island in just ten minutes. Here are a few more reasons why you simply can't miss 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 8th 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.
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.
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!
Visiting Barnhill: Orwell's former home is still privately owned and run as a self-catering accommodation. So, whilst you can stay at the historic house, you can't drop by for a visit. You can, however, walk towards the house to soak in the spectacular views and trace Orwell's footsteps!
Good to Know!
Getting to Jura
We recommend catching the Jura Passenger Ferry from Tayvallich in mid-Argyll directly to Craighouse on Jura. This is a passenger-only ferry, but dogs and bikes are welcome. We'd recommend booking your tickets in advance.
If you're bringing your car, or in the winter, you can reach Jura via Islay. The islands are separated by the Sound of Islay, a half-mile-wide stretch of water. The ferry runs from Port Askaig on Islay to Feolin on Jura. Tickets can be purchased on the ferry or online in advance. We do, however, recommend to booking your Islay ferry tickets in advance via Clamac Ferries.
Where to stay
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. There’s no vehicle access to the site and campers are advised to arrive on foot or by bike only.
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. Bothan Jura Retreat also offers self-catering stays, perfect for couples seeking to truly unplug and reconnect for a while. All bothans come with Swedish wood fired hot tubs and the cottage also has a sauna.
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