When George Orwell came to Jura to write 1984 he described it as being “an extremely
un-gett-able place" ...Not any more!
After a very successful first year the ferry is starting a full operation season for 2010. With spectacular scenery and the occasional spotting of wildlife, nipping back and forth between Jura and the mainland has never been so quick, enjoyable, comfortable and easy. Operating between Tayvallich at the head of Loch Sween and Craighouse on Jura, the crossing takes just under one hour direct from pier to pier!
Built by Redbay Boats in Ireland, the Stormforce 11 is the flagship in their range, offering the best that RIBs can offer. The deep v hull form offers maximum stability and comfort with seating for 12 passengers plus 2 crew.
The protective canopy guarantees you’ll stay warm and dry while the high levels of all-round vision offered by the wrap around screen ensures you can just sit back and enjoy the views.
Twelve passenger seat capacity. Bikes carried FREE. For all freight and other carrying enquiries, contact us. Passengers are advised to arrive at least 5 minutes before departure time to confirm booking, as seats may not be held for late arrivals.
By Bus
The 425 service Lochgilphead to Carsaig will collect passengers at the bus stop on Lochnell St., Lochgilphead to Tayvallich Post Office, located next to the ferry terminal. For full bus timetable information: www.argyll-bute.gov.uk
By Car
From Oban Lochgilphead Road (A816) take turning for Tayvallich (B841, follow signs for Tayvallich (B8025), pass the Tayvallich Inn and the pier is located just before the village shop & cafe on the left.
Parking
Tayvallich - Please use the parking area opposite the Village Hall next to the public toilets. Please DO NOT park directly outside the hall, shop or along the roadside. Craighouse - Limited parking is available outside the Antlers for pick up and drop off only. Cars must not be left outside the Antlers and Village Hall area when travelling on the ferry, please respect the limited space. Please DO NOT obstruct or park at the entrance to Jura Stores.
Taxi Service Available
Ask the operator
Whether you’re planning to spend a day, a week or a month, you’ll welcome the chance to explore this magical island. Arriving into Craighouse, home to a well stocked general store, hotel and distillery – it’s the perfect base from which to discover one of Scotland’s best kept secrets.
Distillery Tour - For a real taste of island life where better to start than a tour of the Isle of Jura Distillery. First founded in 1810 and now famous the world over, here’s your chance to see exactly how this unique award winning single malt is created. The Distillery Shop with its friendly staff offers tasteful gifts for you, your friends and family, plus you can have a taste of your preferred dram! www.isleofjura.com All tours must be booked, please call 01496 820385
The Antlers - Grahame and Stephen are delighted to welcome you to The Antlers Bistro and Restaurant which will open in April 2009 and is situated in Craighouse.
We will be offering a wide selection of freshly produced, locally sourced, food. A Bistro menu from 9.00am with a evening menu from 7.00pm. Booking will be essential for the evening menu. The Antlers, as well as serving great food, will also be displaying and selling a selection of local crafts and artist wares. Additionally at the entrance to The Antlers there will be an Interpretation Area with changing displays and themes, run by the Jura Development Trust. Call 01496 820123 to make a reservation or visit us a www.theantlers.co.uk for further information…see you there!
Accomodation - If you fancy an overnight stay or maybe a long weekend break then you won’t be stuck for a cozy bed. There are a number of suitable cottages, chalets and b&b’s to choose from as well as the popular Jura Hotel offering full Scottish breakfasts, lunches and evening lounge & bar meals. Please click to download our list of accommodation contacts here.
Jura Hotel - Offers 18 bedrooms, residents lounge, restaurant, bar, pool & darts, beer garden and camping with coin operated showers & laundry facilities. Tel: 01496 820243. www.jurahotel.co.uk
Wildlife - As well as the 6000 deer, Jura offers a diverse range of wildlife to enjoy. From the seals basking on the rocks in Small Isles Bay to the more elusive otters along the shore, rare sea birds and soaring eagles, there’s a wealth of natural wonder in store. Visit our local wildlife photographers website www.ephotographica.com
Walking - Jura is a fantastic place to walk. Whether strolling along the shore or heading into the hills for a challenging climb up one of the famous Paps, you’ll soak up the scenery and the views from every perspective.
Bike hire - With little traffic and lots to see, cycling is the ideal way to get around. A gentle peddle around Small Isles Bay leads to the beautiful beach of Corran Sands, approximately 2 miles from the village. Jura Bike Hire is situated in the small crofting township of Keils, just behind Craighouse. Tel: 07092 180747
Bus tour - For those wishing to travel further afield and take a drive up the island, the Jura Bus Service offers private tours, as well as offering a local service. Tel: 01496 820314or email alex@jurabus.co.uk
Jura Gardens - With stunning woodland walks down to the shore and a beautiful walled garden to explore, a visit here should be high on your list. There is a tea tent offering delicious home baking and crafts. Tel: 01496 820315 www.jurahouseandgardens.co.uk
Jura Stores - Stephen and Bev Martin have owned Jura Stores since 1990 and provide a wide range of goods geared towards locals and visitors alike. http://www.jurastores.co.uk/
For more info www.juradevelopment.co.uk
Situated at the head of Loch Sween this idyllic village is surrounded by spectacular scenery and the perfect place for cycling and walking.
Having worked up an appetite, choose between the well stocked Tayvallich Shop and Coffee Shop on the waterfront which serves refreshments, breakfasts, light lunches, snacks, and home-baking or the award winning Tayvallich Inn (www.tayvallich-inn.com) serving up fresh seafood and bar meals.
By co-ordinating our ferry times to the local bus service onto Lochgilphead, Oban and Glasgow, getting to and from the village is easy. Buses operated by Anderson Coaches 01546 870354
To discover all Tayvallich has to offer see www.tayvallich.com
Scottish private tour guide for tours of Scotland - www.scotlandtourguide.co.uk
Inveraray self-catering cottage or bed and breakfast - www.holidayargyll.co.uk
Isle of Jura information portal - www.jurainfo.com
Birdwatching tours on Islay, Scotland - www.islaybirding.co.uk
Bushcraft courses on Islay, Scotland - www.islaybushcraft.co.uk
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If you do not receive a reply within 48 hours, please contact the operator on 07768 450000.
