As might be expected from the name, North End Beach is located on the northern coast of Iona with a setting of rocky shore, sand dunes and several shell-sand beaches. The north of the island is reached by taking the road which passes Iona Abbey and the Hill of Dun, the only high ground on Iona. There is an excellent viewpoint from the top of the hill and it is well worth a detour. The road ends in grassland with a path which leads through two gates to reach the shore. The expansive views over to the Islands of Mull, Staffa, the Treshnish Isles, Coll, Tiree, and even Skye are breathtaking. This is a lovely beach in good weather, but also one to visit if there is a storm brewing, with big waves crashing in over the rocks and the colours dark and vibrant.
