Iona, off the south-western tip of Mull, is one of the memorable places in all Scotland. Reached by the little foot ferry (no booking necessary) from the village of Fionnphort (shop, hotel, golf course), it provides an escape to a world of peace and incomparable beauty.
There are very few cars on Iona, and its silver sand beaches lapped by a turquoise sea and quiet lanes make it ideal for children. Its historic Abbey is still an important place of retreat and pilgrimage.
Up the lane from the landing stage is Erraid, a traditional. Whitewashed croft house now beautifully refurbished to provide every 21st century comfort with no sacrifice of character, the spacious sitting room having a panelled and beamed ceiling, open fire and direct views of the Abbey.
The village, though small, has a well-stocked shop, two eating places (not open all year), a taxi (handy if you arrive with lots of luggage) and cycle hire. From Fionnphort, or indeed from Iona itself, there are boat trips to view the seabird colonies on the Treshnish Isles, or Staffa, with the magnificent Fingal’s Cave.
