Excursion Iona abbey and scenic mull tour at Tobermory

Discover the birthplace of Christianity in Scotland during this wonderful, full-day excursion to the historic island of Iona.

Tobermory, Isle of Mull, Craignure and Fionnphort

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 2.5-hour drive to Fionnphort. En route, pass through the lovely scenery of the Isle of Mull to the small ferry port of Craignure, then continue across the south end and south-west corner of Mull before reaching the hamlet of Fionnphort.

Ferry-Ride and Iona Island, Abbey and Monastic Buildings

Upon arrival in Fionnphort, embark a ferry for the short ride to the idyllic island of Iona, one of the most important religious centres in Western Europe. Iona is steeped in Christian history, and regarded as the birthplace of Christianity in Scotland with the arrival of St. Columba in 563 A.D. and the founding of Iona Abbey. Over a century ago, the Abbey and monastic buildings were restored and, in 1938, the Iona Community was founded to continue the tradition of worship in the Abbey through daily services and teaching. To this day, Iona remains a place of pilgrimage and spirituality.

Iona Abbey Tour, Medieval Stones and Crosses, Lunch and Free Time in Iona Village

Upon arrival at Iona Abbey, take a guided walking tour. Along the way, see the cloisters, graveyard (burial site of numerous early Scottish, Irish and French kings) as well as an impressive collection of over 180 medieval carved stones and crosses. Following your guided tour, ample free time is made available to soak up the atmosphere of the Abbey, and explore the village's lovely little shops and cafes. At the conclusion of your visit, embark the ferry for the short ride back to Fionnphort, then re-board your coach and commence the approximately 2.5-hour drive back to the pier via Mull.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of driving for approximately five hours and a moderate amount of walking for approximately 765 yards (about 700 metres), at times over uneven surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and at Iona Abbey. Walking in Iona Village is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is not suitable for guests prone to motion sickness, guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear warm, layered clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoesand a weatherproof jacket from the ship. Photography is not permitted inside the Abbey whilst services are being conducted.A lunch box from the ship is included.

Due to the local climate, most of the coaches are air-cooled.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Tobermory, Isle of Mull, Craignure, Fionnphort, Ferry-Rides, Isle of Iona, Village, Abbey and Monastic Buildings, Medieval Stones and Crosses, Lunch box, Free Time