Jura, Isle of Deer
The wild and beautiful Isle of Jura offers some of the most dramatic scenery anywhere in Scotland. The special qualities that Jura has to offer will provide an unforgettable experience.
Climate
Warmed by the Gulf Stream, Jura has a milder and drier climate than the rest of the Hebrides. The mild climate allows palm trees and fuchsias to flourish and plants from Australasia to grow in the gardens of Jura House.
The Paps
The beautiful Paps of Jura, a triptych of peaks, whose name very aptly describes their shape, dominate not only the island itself, but also the views from miles around. Bring strong walking boots and climb to the summit to enjoy spectacular views to Islay, Colonsay, Mull, Scarba and Northern Ireland.
The West Coast
Along Jura's west coast are the finest examples of raised beaches found anywhere in the world. When the ice melted 10,000 years ago the land rose, relieved of the weight of the ice. In Jura the old coast was left marooned up to 120 feet (40 metres) above the sea. As a result, no other coast has so many arches, caves and raised beaches as the west side of Jura. There are about 50 very large caves, some of which were used as mortuaries before the bodies were shipped across to Iona for burial.
Evan's Walk
To reach the west coast, Evan's Walk is a 6 mile walk which will take you from the east to the west of the island, experiencing some of the most beautiful views that Jura has to offer and the opportunity to see the wild Red Deer for which the island is famous.
Corryvreckan
The Corryvreckan whirlpool at the northern end of Jura is said to be the second largest whirlpool in the world and is the only stretch of water in the UK that is classed as unnavigable by the Royal Navy. It was famously described by Martin Martin in 1716…
' Between the north end of Jurah and Isle Scarba lies the famous and dangerous gulph called Cory Vrekan, about a mile in breadth, it yields an impetuous current not to be matched anywhere about the Isle of Britain. The sea begins to boil and ferment with the tide of flood and resembles the boiling of a pot.'
Wildlife
Jura is perhaps best known for its red deer population (6000) which can often be photographed at close range. Grey seals can also be seen basking on the rocky outcrops at most of the islands bays and inlets. The beautiful and entertaining otter is fairly widespread on Jura and there are reputed to be a pair of otters for every three miles of coastline. Dolphins and porpoises can be sighted off the shore on the waters around Jura often chasing fish in the sound between Jura and Islay. Small wild goats, supposedly descendents of those on ships wrecked from the Spanish Armada abound along the west coast of Jura. Golden Eagles, Sea Eagles and Hen Harriers can also be spotted on the island.
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