Isle of Iona (Scotland)

Isle of Iona is one of Scotland's Inner Hebrides Islands. Iona island is a popular holiday travel destination. It has a total area of approx 9 km2 (3,4 mi2) and population around 200. The highest elevation point (101 m / 331 ft) is an Iron Age hill fort dating back from 100 BC.

During the 19th century, green-streaked marble was mined commercially in the Island's southeastern part. The machinery and quarry survived.

Island's main settlement (Baile Mor) is located at Saint Ronan's Bay (eastern coast). The island's two hotels, post office, primary school, the ruins of Nunnery and Bishop's House are all there. MacLeod Centre and the Abbey are located at a short walk to the north. The Port Ban beach (on the western coast) is where the famous Iona Beach Party is held.

Iona Island is accessible by 10-min ferry travel from Fionnphort (Ross of Mull, mainland Scotland) across the Sound of Iona. The most common itinerary route is through Oban (Argyll and Bute). Regularly scheduled ferries link Iona with Craignure (Isle of Mull) from where the picturesque road runs approx 60 km (37 mi) to Fionnphort. Local bus services and tourist coaches meet the ferry ships at the terminal.

Very few cars are found on the island, as these are tightly regulated. Vehicular access for non-residents is not allowed, so tourists must leave their cars in Fionnphort. On Mull and at the docking pier, bike hire is available.

After this island was named P&O UK's newest and largest liner - MS Iona (2020, LOA length 337 m, GT 184700 tons, max capacity 6600 passengers plus 1800 crew).

Isle of Iona cruise terminal