Iona

A cradle of Scottish Christianity, surrounded by white sandy beaches and turquoise seas

Planning Your Visit

Planning your visit

Iona Community Council regularly updates island-specific advice.

Browse the village craft shops for souvenirs and treat yourself to local food in one of the cafés or restaurants. The Trust cares for much of the island’s landscape but the tearooms, shops, Heritage Centre, Iona Abbey and other sacred buildings are not managed by us.

Dogs should be kept on a lead and a safe distance away from livestock. If cows react aggressively, it’s better to let go of your dog so that you can both seek safety.

Iona paths have been filmed on Google Streetview Treks, where you can view the terrain in advance of your visit.

Parking is available at Fionnphort on the Isle of Mull.

For more information about planning your visit, please see the drop-down facilities below or our frequently asked questions.

If you’d like to speak to us, we can be contacted by email on iona@nts.org.uk or telephone 01681 700659 or 07717 581405.

Facilities & access

Wheelchair users may find access difficult as there is a ramp onto the ferry.

Access to Iona Abbey (not National Trust for Scotland) is along a tarmac road (600m).

We have an ongoing programme of accessible content development. Detailed accessibility guides for the most visited Trust places are available on our Accessibility pages as well as links to useful resources.

We’d love you to visit the Euan’s Guide website to review the accessibility of Trust places and tell us (and others) what’s good and where we need to do better.

Accessible toilet

There is an accessible toilet by the ferry terminal (not operated by National Trust for Scotland).

Buggy access

Self-guided trails

When you arrive, look out for the National Trust for Scotland Shelter (the red-roofed building close to the pier) where you can access maps and visitor information.

On the island, discover our beautiful beaches and fascinating historical sites, and enjoy the tranquillity and special quality of light here.

Iona has a thriving, hospitable community and a good choice of visitor accommodation. Stay a bit longer and experience the atmosphere as the last ferry of the day leaves, then watch the sunset over the sea from one of the hills; on a clear night the glittering starry sky will take your breath away.

Toilet

A toilet is available at Fionnphort on the Isle of Mull. This toilet is not operated by the National Trust for Scotland.

Walks