What is the Isle of Iona famous for?

What is the Isle of Iona famous for?

Christianity
Iona is a holy isle and has been described as the birthplace of Christianity in Scotland. St Columba and 12 companions came here from Ireland in AD 563. The monastery they founded was one of the most important and influential in the British Isles.

Who owns the island of Iona?

Sir Hugh Fraser
Scotland’s historic island of Iona, cradle of Scottish Christianity and burial place of St. Columba and 60 ancient kings, was brought today by Sir Hugh Fraser, the Scottish millionaire who owns London’s famous Harrods department store.

What sea is Iona on?

Iona Abbey was a centre of Gaelic monasticism for three centuries and is today known for its relative tranquility and natural environment….Iona.

Old Norse name Eyin Helga; Hioe (hypothetical)
The Abbey as seen from the sea
Location

Where is Iona Isle?

Iona is a tiny island off the southwest coast of Mull in the Inner Hebrides. It is only 1.5 miles wide by 3 miles long, with a population of around 170 permanent residents. Despite this, Iona has a special place in the heart of many people the world over.

What is there to see experience do in Iona?

The Island has a thriving arts community and some of the galleries are well worth a visit. Iona has some stunning white shell-sand beaches, a golf course (free), an old marble quarry, interesting walks and wildlife and genuine Hebridean hospitality.

Can you holiday on Iona?

Iona is a magical, spiritual place and it is well advisable to rent a self-catering cottage or stay in a bed and breakfast accommodation as the best time to be on Iona is either early in the morning or in the evening, thus avoiding the day-trippers. Iona’s sandy beaches are also worth seeking out for a bit of solitude.

Can you walk around Iona?

One of the great things about Iona is that it is small enough to be explored on foot but still offers a wide variety of walks. Scottish access legislation means that you are welcome to walk over most of the island, but please remember that Iona is a living, working community.

Can you swim on Iona?

Crystal clear water and vivid, tropical colours above and below the surface, Iona is a gem for wild swimmers. Generally, all these beaches listed below will have you swimming over pristine sand in clear, crisp water, and occasional patches of seaweed stretching up from the bed below.

Do you get midges on Iona?

Another must in summer is some form of insect repellent to protect yourself from the wee highland beastie….’the midge’. They are at their worst from June until September on Mull and Iona but luckily with the almost constant breeze on the island they are rarely a problem.

How do I get to Knockvologan beach?

is approached from Fionnphort by taking the road to Knockvologan Farm which is a couple of miles beyond Fidden. Park your car here and walk for about 10mins down the track that leads to the sea.

What is the island of Iona?

Isle of Iona. Iona is a tiny island off the southwest coast of Mull in the Inner Hebrides. It is only 1.5 miles wide by 3 miles long, with a population of around 120 permanent residents. Despite this, Iona has a special place in the heart of many people the world over. We hope that as you browse this website you will discover something new and…

Why visit Iona in Scotland?

All of them are accessible by foot, and all them enjoy the endless changes of colour in the landscape and the sea. On warm summer days the sunshine, sand, and crystal clear waters make Iona appear positively Mediterranean. It’s a time of picnics, rock-pooling, family fun and even swimming for the adventurous.

What is the best time to visit Iona?

On warm summer days the sunshine, sand, and crystal clear waters make Iona appear positively Mediterranean. It’s a time of picnics, rock-pooling, family fun and even swimming for the adventurous. Similarly, on the same beaches, bracing autumnal walks can be full of all the sounds and sights of crashing waves and dramatic weather.

Why choose Iona for your travel?

Iona has been a place of welcome and hospitality for centuries. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought many challenges but as restrictions ease we are delighted to be able to offer that welcome and hospitality again. Travel in the time of Coronavirus will involve a lot of trust and responsibility on all sides.