✨ABOUT✨The Isle of Jura✨

The Isle of Jura – Scotland’s Wild and Whisky-Filled Escape

The Isle of Jura is one of Scotland’s most untamed and rugged islands, known for its dramatic landscapes, rich wildlife, and world-famous whisky. Located off the west coast of Scotland, Jura is part of the Inner Hebrides, sitting just northeast of Islay. With a population of fewer than 200 people and over 6,000 red deer, it’s an island where nature truly dominates.

🏔 A Landscape of Wilderness

Jura is defined by its remote beauty—from its wild coastlines and sweeping moorlands to the iconic Paps of Jura, a trio of distinctive mountains that tower over the island. The rugged terrain makes it a paradise for hikers, photographers, and those seeking solitude in Scotland’s raw natural beauty.

🥃 Jura Whisky – A Taste of the Island

Jura is famous for its single malt Scotch whisky, produced at the Isle of Jura Distillery, founded in 1810 in the tiny village of Craighouse. The distillery’s smooth and distinctive whisky is shaped by the island’s unique climate, pure water, and remote location. Visitors can tour the distillery and enjoy tastings of this legendary island spirit.

🦌 Wildlife & Nature

✨Red Deer – The island’s name comes from the Norse word "Dyrøy," meaning "Deer Island," and with more deer than people, Jura lives up to its name.

✨Golden Eagles & Sea Eagles – A hotspot for birdwatchers, with these majestic birds often spotted soaring above the mountains.

✨Otters & Seals – The coastline and sheltered bays are home to playful otters and basking seals.

✨Dolphins & Whales – The surrounding waters sometimes attract bottlenose dolphins and minke whales.

✍️ A Writer’s Retreat – George Orwell’s Jura

Jura is famously linked to George Orwell, who sought solitude here while writing "1984". He stayed at Barnhill, a remote farmhouse at the northern tip of the island, where he completed his dystopian masterpiece. The journey to Barnhill remains challenging, requiring a long trek on rough tracks—just as Orwell experienced.

🚶‍♂️ Things to Do on Jura

✨Hike the Paps of Jura – A challenging but rewarding climb with breathtaking views

✨Explore the Jura Distillery – Learn about the whisky-making process and sample a dram

✨Take a boat trip – Discover the wild coastline, see wildlife, and visit the whirlpool at Corryvreckan

✨Visit Craighouse – The island’s main village, home to the distillery, a hotel, and Jura’s only pub

✨Go deer spotting – With thousands of red deer roaming the island, you won’t have to look far

🌊 The Gulf of Corryvreckan – The Mighty Whirlpool

Between Jura and Scarba lies the Corryvreckan Whirlpool, one of the largest natural whirlpools in the world. The sea currents create powerful swirling waters, best viewed from a boat tour or a high coastal vantage point.

🚢 Getting to Jura

Jura is accessed by a ferry from Islay, which is reached via a ferry from Kennacraig on the mainland. There’s also a passenger ferry from Tayvallich during the summer months.

🏝 Why Visit Jura?

For those seeking adventure, isolation, and a connection to nature, Jura offers an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re climbing its peaks, tasting its whisky, or tracing Orwell’s footsteps, this wild and whisky-rich island is a place like no other.

✨Visit Jura Website✨