Iona Travel Guide — Things to Do, Food & Hotels
island off the west coast of Scotland, UK
About Iona
The reason to visit is the fine restoredIona Abbey, founded by St Columba (521-597). He grew up in Ireland and became a monk, but a dispute caused his exile. He sailed with several companions to Kintyre in Scotland but found it still within sight of Ireland, and therefore he was still within reach of his enemies, so they continued to Iona. In 563 AD they founded a monastery, which became a centre for pilgrimage, and the hub of a network of churches and monks across the west of Scotland. The religious complex fell derelict after the Reformation but was restored in the 20th century. Nowadays much of the island is owned by the National Trust for Scotland, with the abbey and associated sites managed by Historic Scotland.
Top Attractions in Iona
Explore the best things to see and do in Iona:
- ★Iona Abbey
Where to Stay in Iona
- 🏨Argyll Hotel
- 🏨Green Shed
Iona Travel Guide Sections
Our comprehensive guide covers 12 sections including: