~ Take a Trip to Iona ~
For a lot of people, a trip to Mull will also mean a visit to Iona. Today some 140,000 people make their way here each year.
Iona is a small island some 3½ miles long and, at its widest, 1½ miles wide. It is aligned approximately north east to south west, and lies just under a mile off the south western tip of Mull.It is geologically distinct from its larger neighbour, and what you find is a generally low lying island with a rocky spine that rises to a high point of 100m: and a selection of lovely white beaches.
The Iona Ferry operated by Calmac, lands you at the main (and only) village on the island, Baile Mòr (or Big Town, though it is anything but). Only residents and essential service providers can take vehicles on the ferry, so like most visitors (both today and back through time) you will probably be on foot. Everywhere you are likely to want to go on Iona is a short walk from the ferry slipway, and the comparative absence of vehicles really adds to the atmosphere of the island.
For most, a visit to the Iona Abbey is a must. Then there is the nunnery, Parish Church and Chapel's to explore. The main religious and historical attractions are the key elements of any visit to Iona: but there is much more here besides. The Iona Community operate a gift and book shop opposite the abbey, and the island also offers a further bookshop, other shops, a pottery and a gallery, and an arts and crafts centre.