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A mini guide to
Iona and the Ross of Mull: tips and FAQs
Local know-how and common questions
Local know-how
Tips for visiting
Cross on foot
CalMac says most vehicles are not allowed on Iona; a permit is needed for any exception.
Allow time to drive the Ross
Fionnphort is at the far end of the Ross of Mull from Craignure, mostly on single-track road.
Book Staffa trips
Staffa can only be reached by boat trip; operators such as Staffa Tours sail from Fionnphort and Iona in season.
Abbey tickets
Historic Scotland sells tickets for Iona Abbey and Nunnery online; members enter free.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Where is Iona and the Ross of Mull?
Iona and the Ross of Mull is in Iona and the Ross of Mull, Argyll and Bute, Scotland. Iona Abbey and Nunnery, Staffa's basalt columns and the long peninsula to Fionnphort. Nearby stops and stations include Fionnphort ferry slipway, Columba Centre car park, Fionnphort, Island buses.
How long do I need in Iona and the Ross of Mull?
A full day for Iona; another half day for Staffa. Allow longer if you plan to eat out or visit several attractions.
What are the highlights?
Highlights include Iona Abbey, Iona Nunnery, St Oran's Chapel. See the Things to do page for more.
How do I get there?
Nearby: Fionnphort ferry slipway (CalMac passenger ferry to Iona (about 10 minutes)); Columba Centre car park, Fionnphort (Free parking); Island buses (West Coast Motors, Monday to Saturday). The Getting there page links to the official timetables and journey planners.
Where can I eat and drink?
We list 6 places to eat and drink in and around Iona and the Ross of Mull, with filters to help you choose.
Where should I stay?
We list 4 hotels and other places to stay nearby. Check availability and prices with each property.
Is Iona and the Ross of Mull accessible?
Accessibility varies by street, building and venue. Check each attraction or operator’s access information before you travel.
While you are here
Things to see in Iona and the Ross of Mull
A few of the sights in the area. The Things to do page lists them all, with directions and official links.
Iona Nunnery
Ruins of an Augustinian nunnery founded in the early 1200s, next to the village; among the most complete in Scotland.
St Oran's Chapel
Twelfth-century chapel beside the abbey, restored along with it and part of the Iona monastic scheduled monument.
Staffa and Fingal's Cave
Uninhabited island of basalt columns; Fingal's Cave inspired Mendelssohn's Hebrides Overture. Reached only by boat trip.
Photo credits
- Iona Abbey: Akela NDE (talk), CC BY-SA 2.0 fr, source
- Iona Nunnery: Otter, CC BY-SA 3.0, source
- St Oran's Chapel: Keith Laverack, CC BY-SA 2.0, source
- Staffa and Fingal's Cave: Sally Hackney, CC BY-SA 2.0, source
- Tobermory and Mull: Philippe Giabbanelli, CC BY-SA 3.0, source
Photos from Wikimedia Commons, used under the licences shown. All photo credits
Keep exploring Mull and Iona