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Isle of Iona Tours

Tours to the isle of iona.

We reach the tiny, sacred Isle of Iona by a 10-minute ferry. Crossing over azure waters from the Isle of Mull. It’s been a place of Christian worship and pilgrimage ever since St Columba and his companions came from Ireland. They established a monastery here in 563 AD.

You can visit this special island with us on our four day small group tours to Mull, Iona and the Highlands and on our six day island hopping tours to Mull, Iona, Skye, the Highlands and Loch Ness. All of these tours leave from both Glasgow and Edinburgh.

Visitor vehicles are not permitted on the Isle of Iona. You’ll therefore travel on the ferry as a foot passenger. This only adds to its tranquillity.

Visit Iona Abbey , still a place of worship, and take a stroll up the small hill above it, Torr an Aba, where St Columba’s writing hut is thought to have stood. You can encounter St Oran’s Chapel and Reilig Òdhrain. It’s said to be the burial place of 48 ancient kings of Scotland, including Macbeth.

It’s worth rambling to the Iona’s highest point at Dun I for panoramic views to other Hebridean islands such as Tiree, Coll and the Treshnish Islands. On a really clear day you’ll glimpse Rhum, Eigg and Skye and even the Irish coast.

While in Iona, why not take a sip from the Well of Eternal Youth, believed to hold the blessing of St Brigid of Ireland.

As you arrive back on Mull from your Isle of Iona Tour you’ll feel restored and at peace.

Visiting the Isle of Iona

Isles of Mull, Iona & The Highlands

Discover Scotland’s wild west coast and the outstanding islands of Mull, Iona and their sister isles. Mull is perfect for nature lovers with the chance to spot sea eagles, dolphins and even whales. Visit Iona Abbey and explore Fingal’s Cave on Staffa. Enjoy a walk on one of Scotland’s most spectacular beaches.

Isles of Mull, Iona & Skye Island Hopping

Explore the islands of Mull, Iona, Ulva, Staffa & Skye. Enjoy the wildlife on the Isle of Mull and the peace and serenity on the tiny sacred island of Iona. Get off the beaten track on the small community island of Ulva and the uninhabited island of Staffa before visiting the spectacular Isle of Skye.

Private & Exclusive tours for families & friends

In the current climate of social distancing and bubbles, now more than ever may be the time to consider a private tour of Scotland for your family and friends.

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Isle of Iona Tours & Trips

Find the right tour for you through Isle of Iona. We've got 24 adventures going to Isle of Iona, starting from just 3 days in length, and the longest tour is 29 days. The most popular month to go is July, which has the largest number of tour departures.

24 Isle Of Iona tour packages with 617 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus

3-Day Isle of Mull and Iona Small-Group Tour from Glasgow

Fantastic trip. Driver Cameron’s tour duties, commentaries, care of passengers, was absolutely stunning.

West Highlands, Iona & The Jacobite Guided Rail Tour

We enjoyed every minute of this guided tour. Everything had been well planned and the timetable worked well. Fantastic guide, amazing experiences, lovely hotels and excellent food. We would definitely choose another holiday with McKinlay Kidd

5-Day Iona, Mull & the Isle of Skye Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh

Great tour, in terms of both the itinerary and our tour guide, James. Very enjoyable & we packed lots of wonderful sights in on the way.

A Scottish Journey

• €150 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Scottish Highlands & Islands

Guide Margerie and Driver Allister excellent. The tour occasionally strenuous; bus rides whole day. Bus quite confortable; Wi-Fi appreciated. Expected more meals included. Big Tour group - 44 Pax - a bit too many for my taste. When I inquired I was told max will be 35.....for me more acceptable. Hotel's fine except Isle of Skye: "Dunollie"- I had a claustrophobic room; no idea where to put my suitcase. After all the add. single room supplement is not little. Itinerary very interesting.

• Sightseeing

Scottish Highland Fling

Very much liked the places we went but would be better in a longer tour, became difficult to enjoy the trip at that pace. Guide was mostly knowledgeable but personally I would have preferred a quieter presentation. Definitely could do without the political diatribes.....

Western Isles & Orkney - 9 days

Mull, Iona & Highlands (Hotel) - 4 days

Scenic Scotland (8 Days)

Scenic Scotland, a Women-Only Tour (Small Group, 8 Days)

Scotland: Land of Lore & Legend (Glasgow to Edinburgh) (2023)

4-Day Magical Mull, Isle of Iona & West Highlands Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh

Wonderful experience driver very helpful.

9-Day Iona, Mull, Skye & Orkney from Edinburgh

Mull, Iona & Highlands - 4 days

Scottish Islands Encompassed - 17 days

What people love about isle of iona tours.

We enjoyed he tour a lot more than we expects. Our tour guide (Chris Rockport) made the trip extra fun and he was very Knowable. Scotland is a beautiful country and everything was very clean. We also enjoyed all the hotels we stayed. Service was great.

• Scotland Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 7 Day Scotland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

Isle of Iona

Visiting iona.

• How To Get Here
• Vehicles on Iona
• Accommodation
• Getting Around
• Food & Drink
• What's On
• Local Businesses

Those who cannot afford the time for an overnight stay on the island will still find it worthwhile to visit for the day. The journey from Oban can be breathtaking, combining an hour at sea with an hour by road across Mull. A regular day trip from the mainland will give you 2-3 hours on Iona, and enough time to take in the atmosphere and visit the main attractions. If you are holidaying on Mull then you can be more relaxed about when you travel, and even take advantage of the after-hours water taxis that can be booked from Iona.

There are various tour packages available which can be booked in advance: you can choose whether to visit only Mull and Iona or take in additional attractions such as the Isle of Staffa and the Treshnish Isles. These can be booked though any of the following joint operators:

Caledonian MacBrayne

West Coast Tours

Gordon Grant Marine

Staffa Trips

Click here to find out more about boat trips

• Visting Iona
• Places Of Interest
• Iona Heritage

Disclaimer | © 2024 Iona Community Council

Iona Trails walking tours

Welcome to ionatrails.com

Iona trails is a small independent business based on the inner Hebridean island of Iona on the west coast of Scotland. Iona Trails provides walking tours around the Island. Telling local stories, explaining its diverse geology, its long history, its geography and most of all helping you appreciate its special beauty and atmosphere. We also help you spot the special flora and fauna of the island.

Our walks are all bespoke guided tours tailored to your interest s and abilities . Whether you’re visiting alone or with small or large groups . You’ll get a great experience of this historic special island. The spectacular seascapes, ever-changing weather and colours will stay with you long after your time on our special island.

The trails and tours are varied to suit a range of abilities. From easy, flat ground walks suitable for all, to more strenuous for the more adventurous explorer. You can also arrange your own route to visit that hidden part or special place on Iona.

spectacular beaches to experience

Iona Trails works in association with the St Columba Hotel, where you can relax with a drink or food after your walk or stock up with drinks and snacks from the St Columba Larder before heading out. Our enquiries and booking are handled by the helpful friendly reception staff. For bookings and enquiries telephone the hotel on 01681 700304 or email us through our contact page

A paddle in crystal clear waters

© 2024 Iona trails & Iona Images

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THE 5 BEST Isle of Iona Tours & Excursions

Isle of iona tours.

• Cultural Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. 3-Day Isle of Mull and Iona Small-Group Tour from Glasgow

2. 4-Day Magical Mull, Iona & West Highlands Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh

3. 5-Day Iona, Mull and the Isle of Skye Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh

4. Private 5 Day tour to the Highlands & Islands

5. 4 Day Isle of Mull & Iona Tour from Glasgow

6. 4 Day Isle of Mull & lona Tour from Edinburgh

7. 4-Day Mull, Iona and Staffa Puffin Experience from Edinburgh

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Seal Island Cruise Tour

Oban Town Daily Walking Tour (10:30am)

Glenaladale Cruise - Great for wizard spotting!

4-day Islay Platinum Whisky Tour - Whisky Included! With free pickup!

Gaskan cruise - Golden Eagles!

Group Walk up Ben Nevis from Fort William

Guided Hebridean Farm Hike near Tobermory, Isle of Mull, Scotland

Private Walking Tour in Fort William Town Centre

Evening Cruise in Scotland

Historical Tour and Seafood Experience

One Day Private Sailing from Oban Marina with Lunch

Full-Day Private Historical Tour in Glencoe from Oban

Inverary Castle, Historic Sights and Scenic Beauty from Oban

Private Oban Town Tour

Ben Nevis Open Group Walks

Hebridean Whisky Tasting Experience

Oban Guided Private Walking Tour

Speyside Whisky Tour - Three Distilleries Included - Private - 5 Star Reviews

Whisky Distillery Trifecta - Glenlivet-Glenallachie-Strathisla

Private Highland whisky tour - Build your own tour!

Segway Experience - Woodlands Glencoe

Ben Nevis Guided walks

Shipwreck Hunters

Full Day Private Hire

Doon The Watter

Paddleboarding Fort William

Ben Nevis Guided Hike

Meet Johnnie Walker - Private Whisky Tour - Cardhu, Cragganmore, Royal Lochnagar

Half Day Private Hire

Full-Day Private West Highland Whisky and Scenic Tour from Oban

What travelers are saying.

• 3-Day Isle of Mull and Iona Small-Group Tour from Glasgow
• 5-Day Iona, Mull and the Isle of Skye Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh
• 4-Day Magical Mull, Iona & West Highlands Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh
• 4-Day Mull, Iona and Staffa Puffin Experience from Edinburgh
• 4 Day Isle of Mull & lona Tour from Edinburgh
• Staffa Trips
• Staffa Tours
• Alternative Boat Hire Iona

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Iona Abbey, Isle of Iona

Enjoy this trip to one of our neighbouring islands and explore the rich history of the Iona Abbey.

Iona  is located off the  Isle of Mull  on the West Coast of  Scotland  just 18 miles from the coast of Tiree.

Jump aboard our 8.5M Humber RIB and feel the power of the twin 150 h/p Engines. Look back and admire the beauty of Tiree – the Land below the Waves.

 This 3 ½ hour cruise takes you to Iona. This is the perfect place to go for a truly relaxing visit and is ideal for anyone wanting to “get away from it all”. Once on the island , you have three hours to experience one of the oldest  Christian  religious centres in Western Europe. The  abbey  was a focal point for the spread of  Christianity  throughout  Scotland  and marks the foundation of a monastic community by  St. Columba  it remains a popular site of  Christian pilgrimage  today.

Your return trip to Tiree will take you via  Fingal’s cave  and the  Treshnish Isles .

From £55 per adult

Departure days.

• W Wednesday

March — October

Contact details

• +44 (77888) 10623
• View tour details
• [email protected]

Tour information

½ Day

• Small Group (1-16)

Tour prices

From £55 Per Adult

Prices are subject to change depending on season

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Tour company information

Tiree sea tours.

We are a small family run business located on the Isle of Tiree, we offer daily boat trips to some of the most amazing places in the west coast of Scotland from the puffins on Lunga to the majestic Skerryvore Lighthouse. Fly direct from Glasgow to experience a truly unforgettable day trip. Tailormade trips for up to 12 passengers on each of our 2 boats, including shark fishing and private dive charters. Our booking office and gift shop located at Tiree Airport offers car hire and a range of local gifts and food products. Check our website and facebook page for regular updates. We look for

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Visit Tiree Sea Tours

Opening times

Boat trips leave at various times please contact us Booking office, shop& car hire Mon-Fri 9am-1pm & 4pm-6pm Sat 9am-1pm

Other tours from this company

Skerryvore Lighthouse

Departs: Tiree

Join us on our 2.5 hour trip to see the majestic Skerryvore Lighthouse with some...

Price from:

£50pp

Fingal's Cave (Staffa)

Take this fantastic trip with us to explore the one of a kind Fingal's Cave and...

Lunga (Treshnish Isles)

Take the chance to see some of Scotland's incredible wildlife on this unique tri...

£45pp

Take the opportunity to visit the Isle of Coll and enjoy what Coll has on offer....

£35pp

The content of many of our web listings is provided by third party operators and not VisitScotland. VisitScotland accepts no responsibility for (1) any error or misrepresentation contained in third party listings, and (2) the contents of any external links within web listings ((1) and (2) together hereinafter referred to as the "Content"). VisitScotland excludes all liability for loss or damage caused by any reliance placed on the Content. The Content is provided for your information only and is not endorsed by VisitScotland.

• 07732912370
• 07831885985

EXPLORE Staffa & the Treshnish Isles

Choose your departure point.

Staffa and Treshnish Isles Wildlife Tour

• Departs: Tobermory, Ardnamurchan

Wildlife Tour Tobermory, Treshnish & Staffa

• Departs: Oban

Wildlife Tour

Staffa and Treshnish Isles Wildlife Tour from Fionnphort or Iona

• Departs: Iona, Fionnphort

Staffa Tour from Iona or Fionnphort

Wildlife Adventures with Sealife mull

• Departs: Tobermory

Three Isles Early Bird Tour

Tobermory & Staffa wildlife tour

Three Isles Tour – Mull, Iona & Staffa

Boat tours scotland.

Discover the most beautiful and interesting places on the West Coast of Scotland with our tours to the Isle of Staffa, home to the world-famous Fingal’s Cave, the ornithological heaven of the Treshnish Isles, the sacred Isle of Iona and the wildlife mecca of Mull.

DESTINATIONS

Our tours allow you to take in some of the most breathtaking scenery in Scotland. The Isle of Staffa, the world-famous Fingal’s Cave, the sacred Isle of Iona, Mull and the ornithological heaven of the Treshnish Isles – the most beautiful and interesting places on the West Coast of Scotland.

Experience nature

We offer a chance to explore unique wildlife in Scotland, which includes puffins, dolphins, whales, basking sharks, sea eagles and guillemots.

HERE TO HELP

If you have any questions regarding our tours, places to stay or any other queries, you can get in touch using the form below or contacting us on 07831 885985 or 07732912370.

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Tours from Oban

Three Isles Tour - Mull, Iona & Staffa

Adult £94 | Child £47

Mull and Iona

Adult £54 | Child £28

Tobermory, Treshnish, Staffa

Adult £109 | Child £55

Tobermory and Staffa

Adult £97 | Child £48

Wildlife Tour

Adult £99 | Child £49

Three Isles Early Bird

Adult £88 | Child £44

Iona Day Trip Winter Special

Adult £27.90 | Child £14

Tobermory Day Trip Winter Special

Adult £19.90 | Child £10

In and Around Mull

Explore the island on our local bus routes

The insider's guide to Mull, Iona, Staffa and the Treshnish Isles.

Tours from Mull

The Three Isles Tour (Departing from Craignure, Mull)

Adult £71 | Child £35

Mull and Iona (Departing from Craignure, Mull)

Adult £38 | Child £19

Tobermory, Treshnish and Staffa (Departing from Craignure, Mull)

Adult £81 | Child £40

Tobermory and Staffa (Departing from Craignure, Mull)

Adult £69 | Child £35

Wildlife Tour (Departing from Craignure, Mull)

Adult £75 | Child £37

Three Isles Early Bird (Departing from Craignure, Mull)

Visit the isle of iona.

Take a boat trip Iona and visit the isle’s incredible beaches.

The landscape of Staffa

Explore Fingal’s cave and if you are lucky, see the puffins on Staffa!

Loch Spelve

See Loch Spelve as part of the Three Isles Tour.

Visit historic Iona, a vibrant centre of Christian worship since St Columba arrived in 563AD

The Three Isles Tour

Visit Fingal’s Cave on the Isle of Staffa as well as Mull and Iona on one of the best day trips available in the UK

See the iconic puffins

Visit Staffa to have a chance to see these comical birds up close

Travel with West Coast Tours

Visit Mull, Iona and Staffa

Inner Hebrides

Discover the stunning scenery of the Inner Hebrides on a day tour from Oban.

Book your Island Day Tour from Oban today

Burial sites of ancient kings, geological wonders, unchanged landscapes, idyllic beaches, glorious glens, abundant wildlife and magical islands!  Our day tours from Oban to the wonderful islands of Mull, Iona, Staffa and Treshnish are a “must do” whether you are a visitor to Scotland or a local looking to explore what’s on your doorstep.  Running daily from 29 March until October, all tours for our 2024 season are available to book online.

Our tours are available to purchase as gift vouchers. The perfect present for Christmas, birthdays, anniversaries, and special occasions –  give the gift of something magical to look forward to! Find out more and purchase gift vouchers here .

Island Day Tours from Oban

Three Isles Tour – Mull, Iona & Staffa

Tobermory, Treshnish and Staffa

Don’t worry, you can still explore Mull during the winter season by purchasing our Mull 24hr Island ticket!

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Visiting the Isle of Iona (from Mull & Oban)

• 6th September 2022
• 5 minute read

The Isle of Iona offers picture-perfect sandy beaches, excellent walking opportunities, a quaint village experience and the possibility of wildlife sightings on both the land and sea. With this in mind, visiting the Isle of Iona is like experiencing Scotland on a miniature scale. There’s no reason you wouldn’t hop on the ferry from Fionnphort!

Table of Contents

Is iona worth visiting, what is the isle of iona known for, where is the isle of iona located, how big is the isle of iona, how do you get to the isle of iona, how long do you need to see iona, can you stay on the island of iona, are cars allowed on iona, can you walk around iona, scottish highlands google map legend, save for later.

Run out of time?  Pin this blog for later .

How to Visit the Isle of Iona

If you’d prefer to be accompanied by a friendly local with pre-arranged transport, there are many guided tours that include Iona in their itinerary. Rabbie’s hosts a 3-day , 4-day , 5-day , 8-day and 9-day tour that departs from either Glasgow or Edinburgh.

The Isle of Iona welcomes around 130,000 visitors each year. Whilst many will travel to experience the island as the ‘ Cradle of Christianity ‘, others will discover the incredible natural beauty, slower pace and tiny community culture. Iona is absolutely worth a visit – if the weather permits!

Iona is often described as the birthplace of Christianity in Scotland as the island had a huge influence on the movement of the religion through Scotland, England and throughout mainland Europe. The island’s religious heritage is dated back to the arrival of Saint Columbas in 563 AD when the monastery was founded. Still to this day, the Abbey is a centre for pilgrimage and a popular tourist attraction.

The tiny island of Iona is hidden behind its larger companion, the Isle of Mull. They’re situated off the west coast of the Scottish Highlands in a collection of islands called the Inner Hebrides.

The Isle of Iona is 3 miles (5 kilometres) long by 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometres) wide . The island’s highest point is just under 100 metres (330 feet) above sea level.

There are a few ways in which you might travel across to the Isle of Iona, although all of which, are by boat.

The most popular route is on the regular Caledonian MacBrayne ferry service from Fionnphort. This journey takes less than 10 minutes, and it’s only a couple of pounds!

Fionnphort can be accessed along the A849. This road leads traffic from Craignure where the ferry from Oban docks to disembark.

It is still worthwhile visiting the Isle of Iona for a day trip, even if you cannot afford the time for an overnight stay. The ferries are so frequent that you could simply pop over for just a few hours!

If you are travelling from the mainland you will need the entire day to have enough time to travel to Craignure on the ferry from Oban and then to Fionnphort to catch the next. This journey in itself can be breathtaking between the hour at sea and hours drive across the southern part of Mull. If you are planning to do so, you’d manage approximately 2-3 hours on the Isle of Iona.

Visiting the Isle of Iona is totally possible as a day trip, although the island truly reverts back to its true authentic self once the last ferry transports the remaining day visitors back to the mainland.

On the other hand, the accommodation on Iona can be fairly limited in availability, so visitors should book ahead to avoid any disappointment.

St Columba Hotel is a restaurant, bar, garden, hotel and hub of visitors to Iona. This accommodation boasts family, double, twin or single rooms.

Self-Catering

Situated only 550 yards from the ferry terminal, Ardoran House is ready for guests with a sun terrace, a private beach area and a tasty breakfast.

Iona Pods are perfect to experience the island’s scenic hills and beaches. They are located a little further from the village on a working croft.

As of 1978, most motor vehicles are not permitted whilst visiting the Isle of Iona . This is to ensure the preservation of the land. Iona is a small island, so there isn’t much space or infrastructure to accommodate an ever-rising number of vehicles. Therefore, visitors should leave their car or camper at either of the two car parks in Fionnphort.

If walking is not your favourite mode of transport, you can bring your own bike to the Isle of Iona. Caledonian MacBrayne allows bicycles onto ferries for free, but visitors can also hire bikes from the Iona Crafts Shop which is only a couple of minutes’ walk away from the ferry terminal.

Little Iona is perfect for walking! At just three miles long by one mile wide, the island is small enough to be completely explored on foot . Whether you’d prefer to stroll along a beach, gaze into the panoramic views from a hilltop or wander the village streets, there are plenty of avenues to place one foot in front of the other.

One of the easiest hills to walk in Scotland is Dun I. You will not miss this viewpoint as it is the highest point on the Isle of Iona. The trail can be accessed through the small gate on the left in the field after the Iona Pods entrance. You’ll want to save this hike for one of the clearer days to be rewarded with amazing views over the island and far beyond!

Are you looking for other island adventures? Check out…

• Your Complete Guide to Handa Island
• Isle of Rum Island Guide
• Isle of Canna: Everything You Need To Know
• The Outer Hebrides Island-Hopping Guide
• Visit Lewis & Harris (The Island Road Trip)

Let’s go! @katie.maree

This Google Map Legend showcases 140+ need-to-know coordinates within our bonnie Scottish Highlands & Islands:

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• Bucket List Locations
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• Relevant Links to Online Travel Guides

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Hey! I'm a Scottish backpacker turned digital nomad with a passion for the outdoors, van life, and international travel. I travelled 100 countries before I turned 30 years of age. Now... Let's go everywhere!

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Iona, Scotland

Article about Iona Scotland for mature and senior travellers . Explore and learn about the Vikings , Standing stones , peat and also Whisky .

26 Jul 21 · 4 mins read

Isle of Iona, Scotland

An island in the Inner Hebrides , lying just off of Mull , Iona is a tiny piece of land, measuring just 6 km long by 2 km wide. However, Iona’s tiny size does not reflect its meaning or relevance to Scotland. Aesthetically beautiful and historically important, Iona is famous for its beautiful abbey and for being something of a symbolic centre of Scottish Christianity. Today, with its white sandy beaches, beautiful scenery and protected wildlife, Iona actively promotes ecotourism and is a fair-trade island. With a population of 200, the main settlement on the island is known colloquially as The Village.

The History of Iona

Iona has a long history but many refer to its starting point as 563 when the monk St Columba founded the monastery on the island, after having been exiled from his native Ireland. After being expelled to the tiny island along with 12 companions, Columba established the abbey which went on to be hugely successful and instrumental in Columba’s efforts to convert the Picts of present-day Scotland to Christianity. Over the 6th and 7th centuries, many satellite monasteries were founded, creating important monastic networks across Great Britain.

In the late 8th century, Vikings began raiding the island and in 806, 68 monks were killed by them. By 849 the monks decided to abandon the monastery, given its exposed position, and Columba’s relics were split up between Scotland and Ireland.

In the 10th century, the abbey’s relevance was revived when the Vikings converted to Christianity and many married with the local Gaelic population. This led to new building works on Iona, including the construction of St Oran’s Chapel. In 1200 AD, Raghnall, the son of the King of Islaes, established a convent for Benedictine nuns around 1208 and it is thought the current Iona Abbey was built in 1203. Raghnall’s sister, Bethag, was instated as the first prioress.

In 1491, the Lordship of the Isles was dissolved, and Scotland gained control of Iona . The monastery and nunnery were active until the Reformation, when the buildings were demolished and the carved crosses, that were the origins of the Celtic cross, were destroyed. They abbey lay in ruins for centuries and in 1899 they were given to the Church of Scotland. In 1910, a Ecumenical Christian group called the Iona Community Council was founded there. The group reconstructed and restored the ruined abbey and it is still an active spiritual community today.

What to See in Iona

The must-see site in Iona is the Iona Abbey. Ancient but reconstructed, it is the heart and soul of the island and a powerful space. It is a mix of Gothic and Romanesque architectural styles with a spectacular nave, vaults and columns. You’ll also find a museum on sight which displays replicas of the carved high crosses and other inscribed stones, as well as important historical information. Next to the monastery is an ancient graveyard where as many as 48 early Scottish kings are buried (including Macbeth) and kings from Ireland, Norway and France. It is also the burial place of several early chiefs of the clan Maclean. At Iona’s Heritage Centre offers further insight into island life, examining the isle’s history crofting and lighthouses.

Iona has become an important site for pilgrims and many visitors come to the island solely to see the Abbey or for a spiritual retreat of sorts. However, as well as they abbey, there is more to explore on the island. For nature lovers, Iona is a paradise with verdant scenery. The wildflowers are magnificent and you can expect to see seas of orchids, sea holly and thistles. Bird watchers will be enthralled by the puffins, great northern divers, sea eagles and rare corncrakes. The beaches are postcard-perfect with white sand and turquoise water but the weather means sunbathing isn’t an ideal option. However, you can enjoy the sealife. The waters around Iona attract basking sharks, the world’s second largest fish, orcas, minke and pilot whales, dolphins, sunfish, otters and seals. One of the most magnificent aspects of Iona is the amount of unique wildlife in such a tiny geographical area and one option for those interested in seeing these animals is a wildlife cruise around the coast. Ten kilometres north of Iona is the uninhabited island of Staffa, famed for its large colony of puffins, dramatic landscapes and the sea cave Fingals Cave. Staffa can be reached on a boat trip from the island of Iona and a round trip takes around 3 hours, including time on the island.

For those who want to stay on the land, the great thing about Iona is that it is small enough to be explored on foot and the best thing one can do is simply to go for a walk. There are a variety of hikes or a walking tour with a local guide is also an option. Otherwise, a simple stroll along the beaches can be magnificent in its own right.

Getting to Iona

The only way to get to Iona is by boat and most vehicles are not allowed on Iona, so it is best to come without one. You can get a ferry from the Isle of Mull. The departure point on Mull is at Fionnphort, a harbour town and the second largest settlement on Mull. The ferry crossing takes less than ten minutes! There is plenty to explore on Mull as well including the charming town of Tobermory with its coloured houses and the 13th-century Duart Castle.

If you’re interested in visiting this wonderful island, our Odyssey tour Scotland: 5000 years of history visits Iona, as well as the Isle of Mull. We also visit Iona and the abbey on our Scottish Whisky and Other Wonders tour.

Articles about Scotland published by Odyssey Traveller.

The following list of articles published by odyssey Traveller for mature aged and senior travellers to maximise their knowledge and enjoyment of Scotland when visiting:

Birth of Scotland

• Questions about Scotland
• Peat & Scotland
• Shetland Islands Discovered
• Questions about the Outer Hebrides

Visiting Scotland

• Scotland & Scotch Whisky
• Visiting Edinburgh places to consider visiting
• Country Spotlight; Scotland
• Nelson Mandela Place; a Glasgow story
• Glasgow’s Architectural heritage
• Stone circles

For all the articles Odyssey Traveller has published for mature aged and senior travellers, click through on this link .

External articles to assist you on your visit to Scotland

• History of Edinburgh castle
• Everything to know about Scotch Whisky
• Understanding the language of the Scotch whisky
• Overview of Scottish history

Updated July 2021.

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Iona, Mull, Skye & Orkney 9 day tour

Explore the "photographer's dream" of Skye, Orkney, Iona, and Mull on this tour from Edinburgh.

Tour Highlights

Loch Lomond National Park - One of Scotland’s largest lochs. Admire the views and take postcard-perfect photos to share with your friends and family.

Oban - This Victorian harbour town offers excellent seafood and a charming intimacy.

Iona - Visit the tiny Island of Iona inhabited with around 120 people.

Fingal's Cave - The cave is compiled of natural hexagonal pillars and has inspired many musicians and writers.

Isle of Skye - Traverse one of the world’s most stunning islands, with beautiful views around every corner.

Eilean Donan Castle - An iconic and gorgeous 13th-century castle that once warded off Viking invasions.

Orkney Isles - These beautiful islands are full of ancient history and wildlife.

Glencoe and Rannoch Moor - Be moved by the sheer beauty and tragic tales of one of Scotland’s most famous landscapes.

Loch Ness - This loch holds more fresh water than all of the lakes in England and Wales combined. But does it also hold the Loch Ness Monster?

Skara Brae and Ring of Brodgar - Learn how people used to live in ancient times at these prehistoric monuments.

North Coast 500 - A rollercoaster road of ruined castles, pristine beaches, dramatic cliffs, and charming villages.

Your journey

Experience Scotland’s iconic landmarks and offbeat charms on this nine day tour.

You’ll see the famed beauty of the Isle of Skye , you’ll hear about the infamous tragedy of Glencoe, and you’ll get to know the legends of Loch Ness and Loch Lomond.

And there’s more. Because you’ll also venture far from the well-trodden paths to the northern wilds of Orkney, and the peaceful shores of Iona and Mull.

It’s a tour that's perfect if you want an unforgettable experience of both Scotland’s local secrets and world class highlights.

Tour Details

Students, seniors over 60, and children between 5 and 15 (unfortunately, we don't carry children under 5 years old)

• This tour combines two of our trips. This means you swap your bus and guide during the journey
• Pack your waterproof clothing and walking shoes
• Some attraction tickets can be purchased in advance when you book your tour. You’ll have the option to add at check-out. Other attractions will not be available to book beforehand, instead you can purchase those while on tour.
• Transport in a 16 seat Mercedes mini-coach
• Air conditioning as standard
• The stories and services of an English-speaking driver-guide
• All ferry fares except the optional trip to Staffa
• Tour accommodation
• Attraction entry tickets
• Stare into mountainous horizons in the West Highlands
• Stroll through the handsome harbour town of Oban

Travel north past Stirling Castle and to the region of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.

You venture through the impressive mountains of the West Highlands and the magnificent whitewashed 18th-century town of Inveraray, home to the Campbell Clan and the Duke of Argyll.

The afternoon will be spent in the heart of Argyll before arriving in the bustling town of Oban for your two-night stay.

• Discover the history of Celtic Christianity
• See one of Scotland’s most unique geological wonders at Fingal’s Cave

Today you have an early start, beginning the day crossing on the ferry to Mull for a chance to explore dramatic coastlines and wild beauty.

You take the small ferry to Iona, the birthplace of Celtic Christianity, and ancient burial ground of Scottish Kings. Here you can visit the historic abbey with its intricately carved crosses in the churchyard, or explore rocky headlands and sandy coves.

There’s an opportunity to take a small boat for an optional trip to the island of Staffa and view the dramatic basalt columns immortalised by Mendelssohn in his Hebridean Overture "Fingal's Cave".

You then return on the ferry to Oban for your second night.

• Be awestruck by the majestic slopes of Glencoe
• Arrive in the most ‘tropical’ town in Scotland, Plockton

You ramble north along the west coast around Appin, passing the impregnable Castle Stalker. Next, you head to the gorgeous Glencoe, one of the most famous natural landmarks in all of Scotland. This beautiful area boasts steep slopes and photogenic peaks. Your driver-guide may reveal to you the tragic tale that’s haunted this valley for over 300 years.

You then venture through Fort William and under the shadow of Ben Nevis, which at 1,344 meters is the highest mountain in the British Isles.

We continue through the Great Glen, a natural fault in the earth’s crust that runs through Scotland. From here, you travel to the fishing village of Plockton or Balmacara. You’re dropped off at your accommodation in the early evening.

• Traverse the legendary landscapes of Skye
• Learn about the tales and battles that shaped the island's culture

Today is a very flexible day on Skye; and your driver-guide ensures you take a unique route that suits the weather, the local events, and your group's interests.

You may ascend the Quiraing along Trotternish Ridge and be rewarded with spectacular views. Alternatively, you could drink in the scenery at Loch Corruisk or drive through the dramatic Red Cuillin to the little hamlet of Elgol.

We return you to your accommodation in Plockton or Balmacara in the late afternoon for you to enjoy a free evening in the village.

• Snap a few photos at the gorgeous Eilean Donan Castle
• Try and spot the Loch Ness Monster

You’re collected from your accommodation for the short drive to the famous stronghold of Eilean Donan Castle.

Then, you travel east taking in the stunning views over Loch Duich and the Five Sisters of Kintail. You continue to Loch Ness for lunch and the possibility of spotting "Nessie".

Half an hour south of Loch Ness you will stop in the village of Spean Bridge and join a new bus for the continuation of your tour to Orkney. Your guides will help you transfer your luggage and introduce you to your new travelling companions.

With your new crew you continue north following the Great Glen travelling along the famous loch and passing by Urquhart Castle.

You arrive in Inverness, the Highland Capital, in the early evening.

• Explore mainland Scotland’s most northern scenery
• Arrive in the Capital of Orkney, Kirkwall

It’s an early start, leaving behind the 'Capital of the Highlands', crossing over the Black Isle, and continuing past Dunrobin Castle.

From here, you drive along the northeast Highland coastline, travelling into some of Scotland's most dramatic scenery. Onwards through Scotland's most northerly mainland village, John o' Groats, and then to Gills Bay, where you board the ferry, and cross the Pentland Firth into the Orkney Archipelago.

It’s a short drive to the famous Italian Chapel where you stop for a visit before continuing to the Viking stronghold of Kirkwall, Capital of Orkney. Here you can visit Kirkwall's magnificent Viking Cathedral and its historic winding streets.

• Go to an ancient site that is older than the pyramids, Skara Brae
• See the wild ocean clash with redstone cliffs

Today is your chance to explore this archipelago’s fertile green pastures fringed by shores of golden sands washed by waters of the North Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.

You visit the 5,000-year-old village of Skara Brae, the mystical prehistoric stone circle at Brodgar and the Druidic standing stones of Stenness.

You then travel onto Maeshowe, where in the 12th century the Vikings left one of the largest collections of Norse runic inscriptions.

Then it’s back to Kirkwall for your second night after what is sure to be a memorable day.

• Take a look at the stunningly located ruins of Ardvreck Castle
• Stroll around the beautiful harbour town of Ullapool

After a relaxed start, you leave Orkney and sail the Viking waters back to the mainland. From here, you travel the old road right across the very top of Scotland, driving past the stunning Ben Loyal and Ben Hope mountains, following the rocky cliffs and stunning golden sand beaches.

You then visit the far northwest Highlands and the wilderness of the mountains of Assynt before stopping to view the 15th-century ruins of Ardvreck Castle.

From here, you travel to Ullapool, situated at the mouth of Loch Broom, a beautiful whitewashed fishing village where you spend your last night's stay on tour.

• See the ancient standing stones made famous by Outlander , Clava Cairns
• Learn about one of the most brutal events in British history at Culloden

Leaving Ullapool behind, you take in the drama of the River Droma as it plunges 60m down into Corrieshalloch Gorge. You then admire the beautiful Loch Glascarnoch, on the way past the 'Capital of the Highlands', Inverness.

You can visit Culloden Moor, the site of The Battle of Culloden in 1746, one of the bloodiest events in our history and the last battle to have been fought on the British mainland. Next, you take a short drive to the ancient standing stones at Clava Cairns, made famous by Diana Gabaldon in the ‘Outlander’ books.

From here, you travel through the ancient Caledonian Pine Forest, hugging the Cairngorm mountain range. You enjoy lunch in these beautiful surroundings before travelling through The Big Tree country of Perthshire, the Kingdom of Fife, and back to Edinburgh.

Attractions

Tour Attractions

You are able to pre-purchase entrance tickets to the following attractions at the time of booking:

• Culloden VC, Museum & Battlefield

Other attractions may be booked and paid locally during the tour.

Accommodation

Where does this tour stay overnight.

You stay two nights in Oban, two nights in Plockton or Balmacara, one night in Inverness, two nights in Kirkwall, and one night in Ullapool*.

* Please be aware that Ullapool is busy all year round and Kirkwall is busy between June and August . You may need to be flexible with rooms we're able to reserve for you here. If you'd prefer to find your own accommodation for this location, please choose the 'book your own accommodation' option when you book your tour.

How can I book accommodation?

Accommodation is not included in the price of your tour. To book accommodation, there are two options: either Rabbie’s Tours can book it for you, or you can book your own. For information on how to do this, please see the ‘Accommodation’ tab on FAQ page HERE .

Alternatively, please email us your questions at [email protected] or call us on +44(0)131 226 3133.

Information you can find on the FAQ page, under the ‘Accommodation’ tab : types of accommodation, room types, the booking process, getting to and from your accommodation, and cancellation terms.

How much will the accommodation cost?

We book accommodation with third-party providers on your behalf and each property sets their own rates. Rates vary considerably depending on the accommodation standard, facilities, location, and local demand. We therefore can’t tell you exactly how much your accommodation will cost until your request has been allocated to a specific property.

As a guide, you can expect to pay the following prices,  per person per night :

NOTE: Prices quoted are for guidance only and may be higher on some occasions, especially for last-minute bookings and when demand is high (E.g. peak season, weekends, holidays, special events etc)

Breakfast will be included unless otherwise noted. The type of breakfast provided will vary from place to place so you may receive either a full cooked breakfast, a continental style breakfast (E.g., toast, fruit, cereal), or a packed breakfast bag or tray (E.g., porridge pot, fruit, granola bar).

Do you offer hotel pickups in the departure cities?

The UK and Ireland's historic city centres are full of narrow streets and winding roads. So, to speed up your departure, we only pick up from our central meeting points. What's more is leaving the city using the most direct route also reduces the carbon footprint of our tours.

Is there parking close to the departure point?

We don't recommend bringing your car into the centre of our departure cities. It can be hard to find parking, and there are excellent public transportation services.

When should I get to the departure point?

Arrive 15 minutes before your departure time. Due to waiting restrictions, we can't wait for you if you're late.

What happens if I'm late or miss the tour?

If you're late for your tour, our cancellation policy applies. 100% charges are applicable, and you will not be entitled to a refund or alternative.

What are your cancellation policies?

For one-day tours: You'll receive a full refund if you cancel 24 hours or more before the tour departure

For tours of between two and nine days: You'll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 15 or more days before the tour departure

For tours of 10 or more days: You'll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 21 or more days before the tour departure

For all European packaged tours: You'll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 42 days before the tour departure.

If you cancel inside these notice periods, full charges will apply and no refunds will be issued.

To cancel your booking, email [email protected] as soon as possible. The effective date of cancellation will be the date we receive written confirmation from you.

Click here to view terms and conditions

Can Itineraries change?

Your tour will always follow the itinerary as closely as possible. Your driver-guide will keep you up to date on the road, and we'll try to get in touch about any large changes prior to your departure.

Can I pre-book a specific seat?

Due to logistical reasons, we're unable to let you pre-book a seat on the bus. But our comfortable 16-seat mini-coaches have huge windows. So, you'll always get a good view.

Are there toilets on the bus?

Unfortunately, we have no on-board toilet facilities, but you'll have regular comfort breaks.

How do you cater for people with accessibility needs?

We aim to accommodate everyone. To read more information on how we do this, click here to go to our accessibility guide.

Do you take children on your tours?

We regret we don't carry children under the age of five on our scheduled tours.

You can ask us about the tours we recommend for younger children. And if your child is less than 1.35m tall, you should let us know, so we can provide them with a suitable booster seat.

How much time do I get off the bus?

We want you to enjoy Britain and Ireland. And we believe the best way to do this is to get you off the mini-coach and out exploring. So, we give you plenty of time to take photos, go walking, and explore ancient ruins.

Why do you exclude visitor attractions?

We exclude visitor attractions in your tour price because it lets you travel your way. It means you can pamper yourself with a luxury lunch or skip an attraction whenever you feel like it.

Do we need to bring our own lunch?

You don't need to. We stop in small towns, villages, and rural eateries where you can choose whatever meal pleases both your taste buds and your budget.

Should I tip the driver-guide?

Let's be honest, our driver-guides would never refuse a cheeky bonus. But it's up to you, and the amount is entirely at your discretion.

What about travel insurance?

We advise you take out travel insurance.

What is ABTOT?

You're protected by ABTOT when you chose to let us reserve your accommodation on a multi-day tour. This means you can claim back anything you've paid us if we become bankrupt. Read our terms and conditions for more information.

I have more questions, who can help me?

If you have any more questions, call us on +44(0)131 226 3133, email [email protected] , or check out our full FAQs .

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