Discovering The Beautiful Isle of Iona.
I’m continuing our journey across Mull and our next stop is the Isle of Iona an absolute jewel of the west coast. The island is mainly known for being the birthplace of Christianity in Scotland and where Macbeth, King of Scotland was buried at Iona Abbey but it has so much more to offer.
I don’t know if you’re like me , but every now and again a place inexplicitly moves you. For me the isle of Iona is one of those places.
I’m not particularly religious but the Isle of Iona has an aura it’s difficult to define. It’s tiny in size but enormous in its influence across the world. A special place of beauty, history, and calm. The island is only 3 long by 1.5 miles wide with beautiful shell sand beaches and intense blue green water.
How to get to the Isle of Iona:
If you haven already done so look up our previous blog – The Isle of Mull, Enchanting Scenery, and Stunning Wildlife. Which takes you through our trip from Oban and across Mull to Bunessan.
From Bunessan we take a short dive to Fionnphort where we will leave the car. The island can only be accessed by a short ferry journey from the terminal at Fionnphort. There is plenty of car parking close to the terminal which is lucky as the only local residents’ cars are allowed on the island.
If you enjoy walking its easy to cover the entire island or take a bike over with you. Most people’s first stop will be a visit to the Abbey. But the island has an exceptional, unspoiled habitat benefiting both wildlife and humans.
Iona Abbey.
The Abbey is the focal point of the Island. Whether you are religious or not it’s a must see while on Iona. Its easy to spend a whole afternoon walking knee deep in history and enjoying the tranquillity of it all.
Iona Abbey was founded by St Columba in 563, and some remains of the old buildings can still be found. Saint Aidan was a monk at Iona went on to establish the monastery on Lindisfarne in Northumberland.
The Iona Cathedral Trust, began restoration of the Abbey in the early 20th century This was carried on by the Iona Community an ecumenical order who to this day continue to use the Abbey as a place worship. Historic Environment Scotland now look after the buildings which can be visited by booking on online. The island gets quite busy in the summer months, so I would advise advanced booking.
Wildlife.
The habitat is home to Sea Eagles, Sand Pipers, Hen Harriers and some Corncrakes. Around the coastline expect to see Otters and offshore Minke Whales, Dolphins, and Porpoises can be spotted.
Beaches.
Visiting some of Iona’s the incredible beaches is a must during your visit. ,We walked past the Abbey to the end of the lane then across fields until you arrive at White Strand Beach, and then on to North End Beach. You will the greeted with beautiful white sand, and amazing views, a great place for a picnic.
If you have more time on the island try St Columba’s Bay,. It’s a fair walk south of the ferry, through theMachair then past the loch and down to the bay. Also worth a visit are Port Bàn, and the Bay at the Back of the Ocean.
The Treshnish Islands and Staffa.
You don’t need to limit yourself just to the Island Iona. There are tours which will ferry you out on a day trip to see more stunning places. The Treshnish Isles are a must if you are interested in wildlife. They are home to thousands of Puffins, Seals, Guillemots, Razorbill, Shag and many other sea birds. We took a wildlife tour with Staffa Tours which took us to the Isle of Lunga and the Isle of Staffa. The tours leave from Iona and Fionnphort ,There are also other tour providers that can take you on wildlife tours from Tobermory, Ulva Ferry and Oban.
Lunga.
Lunga is home to the puffins, the comical bird everybody loves. The birds are not shy of humans and will come within a few feet of you. Great for getting good photographs. The best time to go is from mid-April to early August.
Staffa.
Even if you have never been to Scotland is probable that you know of the geological wonder of Staffa The basalt columns and Fingal’s cave have amazed and inspired people for centuries. The cathedral like cave inspired Menhollsen to compose an overture after his visit to the incredible Isle. You can also see the Puffins on the Island if you are spending time on the island.
Visiting Iona and the islands close by is an experience not to be missed. I guarantee you will not be disappointed. It can get very busy with visitors in the high summer months. My advice is to go slightly earlier or later to enjoy the tranquillity of the island.
Enjoy Life!
John.
Hi, my name is John Webber, award winning chef and tutor, now retired to the west coast of Scotland. Welcome to our blog focusing on food, cooking, and countryside. My aim is to pass on my years of skills and knowledge together with an appreciation of the countryside.
Join us to experience the beauty of the west coast, cook some great food and be at ease in the kitchen.
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