Within a few minutes by ferry from Port Askaig on Islay lies the Isle of Jura. For miles around, especially from Kintyre, the 3 Paps of Jura (mountains of up to 785m) can be seen over the water enticing you to visit this special spot - this is where Geroge Orwell wrote "1984", in the remote peace and quiet of northern Jura. The word 'Jura' means deer in the Norse tongue although gaelic is still the local language. The island is populated by over 6000 deer, 600 people and various numbers and species of wildlife (100 species of birds alone), including wild goats! Only the east of the island is really inhabited and there are some superb beaches and caves around the coast. A great place to cycle as the only road stretches almost the entire length of 29 miles. ... < more >