Jura coast-to-coast - Tarbert

Summary

Walking from coast to coast across Jura sounds like a very demanding excursion - but not on this straightforward walk that crosses the island at the narrows of Tarbert. A good track leads to the lovely shores of Loch Tarbert on the west coast, whilst the route is completed with a visit to Tarbert Bay on the east. The route was once used to haul boats across, avoiding the need to take on the fearsome Gulf of Corryvreckan.

Grade

Bog Factor

Rating

Terrain

Good tracks; can be wet on final approach to Tarbert Bay, grassy field to reach cemetery.

Getting there

Start

Parking on grassy verge just south of the start of the track to Loch Tarbert.

Public Transport

Infrequent Jura bus service runs between Feolin Ferry and Ardlussa.

Start Grid Ref

NR605821

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Walk Statistics

Distance: 4km / 2.5 miles
Time: 1.5 hours
Ascent: 37m (Profile)

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Walk Description

User reports (1)

Stage 1

There is parking on the grassy verge of the east side of the A846 route at NR605821 just south of where the track branches off to Loch Tarbert. Begin the walk by heading along the track, which is not signed. In around 1km it reaches the edge of Loch Tarbert on the west coast.

Stage 2

There is a boathouse by the shore; look out too for otters. Loch Tarbert penetrates more than 10km inland on the west side of Jura, very nearly dividing the island in two. The narrow neck crossed on this walk was in use as a short-cut across the island for thousands of years, enabling traders, drovers, farmers and warriors to cross the island without having to navigate the treacherous Gulf of Corryvreckan at the north end.

Stage 3

Retrace your steps along the track back to the main road. To complete your own coast-to-coast crossing, turn left and then take the next lane on the right (signed Tarbert) to head towards Tarbert Bay and the east coast. Follow the track through the field - there are often livestock grazing here, and the farmer requests no dogs. At a track junction, turn right to follow the track towards a large wooden house where a rougher section of track leads out onto the bay itself.

Stage 4

Again retrace your steps. From the track junction it is possible to detour across the grassy field to visit the old burial ground. Tarbert was once the main centre of population on the island, and within the old cemetery are the remains of a chapel attributed to St Columba. There is also a prehistoric standing stone here - which was later carved with crosses. After visiting the burial ground, return to the start.

Route Profile

Where to stay

Islay, Jura & Colonsay Hotels

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