The Bunkrooms are very convenient for a day trip to Iona with its white sand beaches, blue-green waters and beautiful coastal "machair" of wild flowers in the summer months. Fionnphort Pier is less than a mile from the Bunkhouse, which is where to catch the Iona Ferry. The trip across the very scenic Sound of Mull takes only 10 minutes,with regular crossings seven days a week. It is not possible to take a car on the ferry unless you are a resident, so pack a backpack and be prepared to explore the island on foot. Alternatively cycles can be hired from Finlay Ross, a general store near the ferry pier.
The island is only 1.5 miles wide by 3 miles long, yet it is a place of pilgrimage and a destination for people from all over the world. The main historical feature of the island was the arrival of St Columba in 563AD, which is why the island is considered to be ‘the cradle of Christianity’. But whatever it was that attracted Columba and his followers still exists; the moment you step off the ferry from Fionnphort, you are aware that Iona is a special place and incredibly beautiful. This is helped by the ancient monastery and other fascinating heritage, a welcoming community and the availability of high quality arts and crafts..Wildlife is plentiful on Iona, one of the best places to spot the corncrake, seals and otters. Bottlenosed dophins, common dolphins and Risso dolphins are regular visitors off-shore. In the waters between Iona and Staffa, Minke whale visit from late June onwards. Orca and pilot whales migrate past and basking sharks appear from July.
