Jura Distillery
To get here, you have to take a tiny ferry from Islay across the “Sound of Islay” to the rugged and wild Isle of Jura. The distillery sits in the only village on the island, Craighouse, with the postcode PA60 7XT. Jura is a place where the deer outnumber the people by about 30 to 1!
What to Expect and Enjoy
The journey to get here is half the fun. It feels like you’ve reached the edge of the world.
- The Still House: The copper stills here are unusually tall. The story goes that they were built this way to create a lighter, more delicate spirit than the heavy, smoky whiskies found on neighbouring Islay.
- The Island Vibe: The distillery is the heart of the community. It’s very informal and chatty. You’ll likely meet people who have worked there for generations.
- The Scenery: From the distillery gates, you have a perfect view of the Paps of Jura—three massive, cone-shaped mountains that dominate the skyline.
Best For and Time Spent
Ideal for whisky fans, adventurers, and couples looking for a truly remote experience.
- Duration: Expect to spend about 1 hour for a tour. However, because of the ferry timings, a trip to Jura is usually a full-day commitment.
Helpful Tips for Your Visit
- Transport: Most people leave their car on Islay and hop on the ferry as a foot passenger. The distillery is a short walk from where the ferry (or the Jura bus) drops you off.
- Food & Drink: The Jura Hotel is right next door to the distillery and is the only pub on the island. It’s famous for its friendly atmosphere and “pub grub.” Be warned: food service can be busy, so if you’re on a tight ferry schedule, plan ahead!
- Parking: If you do bring a car, there is free parking in the village.
- Season: They are usually open all year round, but island life depends on the weather. If the ferry isn’t running due to high winds, the distillery might be a bit quieter!
Nearby and Combine-able Hits
On Islay, you can easily visit Laphroaig, Lagavulin, and Ardbeg as they are all connected by a beautiful, flat 3-mile walking and cycling path from the town of Port Ellen. On Jura, the main activity besides the distillery is hiking or spotting the thousands of wild red deer that roam the hills.