The Paps of Jura Photo: Pi Davidson
One of Britain’s last great wildernesses, the Isle of Jura is an untamed beauty. A hidden and mostly unexplored gem in Scotland’s Inner
reigns supreme. Hike the legendary Paps of Jura, three towering peaks made of Dalradian quartzite, that dominate the skyline; or wander along pristine coastlines where seals bask in the sun and otters scurry along the shoreline. Look up and you might see one of ten pairs of breeding sea eagles, a peregrine falcon or osprey. Look out to sea and you’ll often see dolphins and occasion- al minke whales. Whether you’re an avid explorer or a quiet nature lover, Jura is a breathtak- ing escape from the modern world. And if you venture out to Jura’s famous remote west coast your only com- pany will be skies and seas and your thoughts. You can visit the Jura Distillery to ex- perience the island’s signature smooth, rich flavours - take a tour or savour a dram in the visitor centre. Less known are the island’s two other distilleries - award-winning Lussa Gin in the north of the island at Ardlussa who grow and forage their own botanicals and have a
Hebrides where rugged coastal landscapes rub shoulders with world- famous whisky and expansive wilderness. Jura is an island of adventure, tranquility, and unforgettable magic. With a vibrant local community of little over 200 residents dotted along its single track road and over 5,000 red deer, this is a place where nature still
Craighouse, Jura Photo: Martin Beastall
new Juniper Garden opening this year; and Deer Island Rum in Craighouse who also offer tours and tastings in the village. From wildlife spotting to wild swim- ming, from beach yoga to a boat trip to the legendary Corryvreckan Whirlpool or a ceilidh in the village hall at the Mu- sic Festival, Jura offers something for every traveller. It’s an island where time slows down, and reconnecting with nature and yourself happens almost by accident. George Orwell famously described his northern own retreat here as “un-get- at-able” and something of the magic of this remoteness still persists in the island’s DNA. Fortunately it’s not quite
as difficult to get here these days by car or by foot. There is wonderful local food from both The Antlers and The Jura Ho- tel in Craighouse. You can pick up moreish artisanal baked goodies from The Island Bakehouse; local seasonal seafood; and new this year is Wild Jura Venison. For more information on Jura please visit: www.isleofjura.scot or use our in- teractive Isle of Jura Destination Guide.
Diary Dates:
Jura Boat Tours Photo: Jura Boat Tours
Regatta Photo: Pi Davidson
48
Made with FlippingBook interactive PDF creator