THE MAGICAL ISLANDS OF IONA AND STAFFA

The cradle of Scottish Christianity. Spectacular Fingal's Cave. Two unique islands off Mull's western coast. We recommend an early start to make the most of a day to remember.

Iona

Head south from Craignure (as you join the main road from Pennygate Lodge, turn left) through Glen More to Fionnphort where you will pick up the frequent foot passenger ferry to the isle of Iona. Much of the 35 mile journey through the Ross of Mull is on single-track road. As an alternative to driving, there is a regular bus service from Craignure to Fionnphort.‍

Iona Abbey

Iona is known as the cradle of Scottish Christianity. A visit to the Abbey gives a sense of the island's special nature through time - including the iconic high crosses, the restored abbey church and graveyard, thought to be the final resting place of ancient Scottish kings. More information about Iona Abbey and Nunnery is available online here

Iona Coastal Walks

Iona is 3 miles long and 1.5 miles wide with long, shell-sand beaches and clear blue waters - especially in the north. For wildlife and photography enthusiasts, it's a fine day's walking with far-reaching views and stunning landscapes.

Puffins can be seen on Staffa between May and July

Isle of Staffa

You could just spend the whole day absorbing the beauty of Iona but we would recommend an afternoon boat trip to the Isle of Staffa with Staffa Trips. In addition to the spectacular Fingal's Cave - with its iconic basalt columns, Staffa and the waters surrounding the island are home to a small puffin colony between May and July, a vast array of sea birds, and if you are lucky, porpoise and dolphin.

The trip leaves from the jetty on Iona, lasts 3 hours (with 1 hour ashore) and returns to Fionnphort - further information about the boat trip here.

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