The Paps of Jura

If you visit Jura then there is no missing the Paps of Jura. They dominate the skyline for miles around this quaint, magical island. Adding the allure of this peaceful Isle, many come to climb their rock and scree slope. Here you can marvel at the spectacular views to behold on a clear day. Consisting of three mountains – Beinn an Òir (Mountain of Gold) a Corbett, 2,575 ft (785m), Beinn Shiantaidh (Holy Mountain), 2,477 ft (755m) and Beinn a’ Chaolais (Mountain of the Kyle), 2,408 feet (734m) they gain their name from looking like breasts! ‘Paps’ is the ancient Old Norse word for breast.

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Walking the Paps of Jura

These three steep, quartzite mountains take you on a challenging and rewarding hike over bog and scree. So a pair of sturdy walking boots is an essential accompaniment. As you approach it is boggy. Once on the mountain, the terrain is loose scree and boulders. Paths do guide you over certain sections but there are sections with no path. Here you can get a full guide to the nine stages of the hike with pictures. It is important to mention that if this hike is undertaken in winter and there is lying snow, you will need to be an experienced climber. Crampons and an ice axe alongside the knowledge and experience of using these are recommended.

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Getting to the Paps of Jura hike

If arriving by car, there is parking on the North side of the Three Arch Bridge. This takes you over the Corran River. Coming from the Jura passenger ferry which runs in the summer, you would need to cycle. Alternatively, book a Jura taxi to get you to the bottom of the slopes of these mountains. If you come by car you can get the Jura car ferry which runs between Port Askaig on Islay and Feolin on Jura. From here follow the A846 left, to the dedicated free parking. Please note there are no facilities.

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Looking for somewhere to stay?

If you are visiting Jura and are looking for somewhere to stay, then why not book a room with us here at the Jura Hotel? Here we are a 34-minute drive to the Paps of Jura. After a days climbing, head back to the hotel for a hot meal and drink in our cosy lounge bar. Then head to your room for a good night’s sleep, listening to the sound of the sea as you drift off. Contact us online or call us today on 01496 820 243 for more information. Or you can book your room online today.

Watch the below video on the Paps of Jura climb

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Rooms

If you are looking for Isle of Jura accommodation then why not come and stay with us at the Jura Hotel?

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Food and Drink

Here at our cosy and popular Jura restaurant lounge and bar, you can come to refuel and relax when visiting this special island.

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Testimonials

“Another excellent stay at the Jura Hotel – we had a very nice, modern room looking out to the bay. Bed & bedding were great. Very good modern bathroom with excellent shower. We stayed 3 nights, the food was always excellent at breakfast and dinner plus service was faultless in the restaurant and in the bar. There is limited phone service in the rooms but the wifi is very good. In short, wonderful and we will be back..”

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