Isle of Jura

The gorgeously untamed island of Jura is one of the wildest places in Scotland. Located off the mainland's west coast, the long and narrow island is known for its soaring mountains, delectable whisky, swirling whirlpool and local population of just 200 people (who are outnumbered hugely by over 5,000 wild deer).

Follow in the footsteps of George Orwell

One of the most famous writers of the 20th century once called Jura home. Orwell travelled here to find the peace and quiet he needed to complete his most famous work, 1984. From 1946 to 1948 he lived in Barnhill farmhouse, located at the northern end of the Island, which you can still hike out to today.

And enjoy a drop of dram good whisky!

Peek behind the scenes at the Isle of Jura Distillery. Book a tour to learn how they craft their wonderful malts, which range from sweet and full bodied to deliciously peated, and savour a sample.

Things to do in Jura

• Enjoy spectacular views of Jura's rugged mountain landscape as you travel across the glittering sea by ferry.
• Tour the Isle of Jura Distillery and see how whisky is made.
• Visit the mystical Corryvreckan Whirlpool, the third largest in Europe.
• Hike up the towering Paps of Jura.
• Take a bus tour around the island and see the island's famous herds of red deer.
• Catch wild fish in the lochs and rivers.
• Look out for amazing wildlife, including deer, otters, seals, golden eagles and even rare white-tailed sea eagles and minke whales.
• Explore Jura's sister island Islay (only five minutes away by ferry!) and visit some of the eight famous distilleries that are based there.

Travel in Jura

Getting here

Regular ferry crossings run throughout the day from Port Askaig on Islay to Port Feolin on Jura (the crossing takes only 5 minutes and the ferry operates all year). From early April till late September you can also board the Jura passenger ferry at Tayvallich on the mainland and arrive at Port Craighouse in less than an hour.

Getting around

Garelochhead Coaches operates a bus service around Jura's main towns from Monday to Saturday. The 456 bus travels between Port Feolin and Inverlussa (via Craighouse).

Jura Island Tours run regular bus tours of the island (they can also be booked for private hires) or you can explore Jura by foot or bike. Either bring your bike across via the ferry from Islay or hire one from Jura Bike Hire at Craighouse.

Get to Jura now!