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Mountains against a grey blue sky
The Paps of Jura are one of those sights that just stick with you. Rising up from the Isle of Jura off Scotland's west coast, these three iconic peaks – Beinn an Oir, Beinn Shiantaidh, and Beinn a' Chaolais – shape the island's rugged skyline and can be spotted from miles away.

They have this otherworldly vibe, especially when seen from Islay, where they seem to hover over the water like ancient sentinels keeping watch.

Climbing them is no small feat. The tallest, Beinn an Oir, hits 785 meters, and the journey up is rocky and wild. This isn’t a gentle walk – it’s the kind of hike that makes you feel like you’ve truly earned the view at the top. And the view? It’s unreal, with sweeping sights across the islands and open sea that make every step worth it.

But it’s not just about the challenge. The Paps are steeped in local lore, with stories of giants once calling these mountains home. That rugged, mystical atmosphere is part of Jura’s charm – a quiet, untamed place where legends feel possible. With only a handful of people living on the island and just one single-track road winding across, Jura feels like a step back in time.

Whether you’re looking for an epic climb or just want to admire these peaks from afar, the Paps of Jura are pure Scotland. Raw, majestic, and timeless – they’re a perfect taste of the wild beauty that makes the Hebrides so unforgettable.

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