Mull & Iona

Nestled off the west coast of Scotland, the Inner Hebrides are a captivating archipelago of rugged landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Unlike the Outer Hebrides, which lie further out to sea, the Inner Hebrides sit closer to the mainland and offer an accessible yet wild escape for travelers seeking natural beauty and authentic Scottish island life. With over 30 islands, each with its own unique charm, from the mystical Isle of Skye to the serene Isle of Mull and the sacred Isle of Iona, the Inner Hebrides are a treasure trove of dramatic coastlines, ancient castles, quaint villages, and abundant wildlife. During our trip to Scotland, we had the pleasure of visiting Mull and Iona, two islands that beautifully showcase the diverse character and timeless spirit of this stunning region. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or simply craving a peaceful retreat, these islands provide an unforgettable adventure steeped in Celtic tradition and breathtaking scenery.

Our journey began on the Isle of Mull, a place where history and natural beauty collide in the most magical way. One of the island’s crown jewels is Duart Castle, a striking medieval fortress perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the Sound of Mull. Steeped in history and still home to the Clan Maclean, the castle offers fascinating guided tours that take you through its ancient halls, rugged battlements, and lush gardens. Standing there, surrounded by centuries of stories (and scaffolding!) and breathtaking views of the sea, it was easy to imagine the lives of the clansmen who once defended this stronghold.

Traveling towards Tobermory, the island’s capital, not far from the village of Salen, we came across something truly wonderful: two old fishing boat wrecks resting along the shoreline. There is not much information about these boats, but from what we gathered, they’ve been there since the 1970s. Supposedly, a local man bought them for a small sum with hopes of salvaging and restoring them, but then the idea was abandoned, along with the boats themselves. Over the years, they’ve deteriorated badly, but what is left stirs the imagination and stands as a silent reminder of the island’s rugged past and the relentless power of the sea.

One of the best ways to take in the Isle of Mull is simply by driving along its winding roads, letting the island reveal itself at every turn. From rolling green hills dotted with sheep to the iconic Highland coos with their unmistakable shaggy coats and striking red fur, these gentle giants stand out beautifully against the lush, vibrant backdrop of the island. Seeing their reddish coats scattered across the green fields is like catching glimpses of a living piece of Scotland’s heritage.

The rugged coastline offers breathtaking views of cliffs plunging into the wild Atlantic, while sparkling lochs and quiet beaches invite moments of peaceful reflection. Along the way, ancient standing stones peek through the greenery, silent witnesses to centuries of history and mystery.

Charming villages like Tobermory, with its colorful harbor buildings, and quieter spots like Salen and Dervaig add a cozy, timeless feel to the journey. Driving around Mull isn’t just a trip, it’s a chance to immerse yourself in a landscape where nature, history, and culture come together in perfect harmony.

A Sacred Visit to the Isle of Iona

Just a short ferry ride from Mull, the Isle of Iona offers a peaceful and profoundly spiritual experience. Known as the “Cradle of Christianity” in Scotland, Iona is steeped in religious history and quiet beauty that invites reflection and reverence.

At the heart of the island stands the magnificent Iona Abbey, founded in the 6th century by St. Columba, who is credited with bringing Christianity to Scotland. Walking through the abbey’s ancient stone walls, you can almost feel the centuries of prayers and pilgrimages that have passed through here. The simple yet powerful architecture, along with the surrounding graveyard filled with Celtic crosses, tells stories of faith, endurance, and hope.

Iona is also the final resting place for many ancient kings of Scotland, adding a deep historical significance to this sacred island. Their graves, scattered throughout the abbey grounds and nearby sites, connect visitors to the rich tapestry of Scotland’s royal and spiritual past.

St. Columba himself remains a central figure on Iona, his legacy woven into the island’s identity. The peaceful landscape, dotted with wildflowers and overlooking the Atlantic, feels like a place where history and spirituality meet in perfect harmony.

Visiting Iona was a deeply moving experience, one that offers not only stunning scenery but also a chance to connect with a pivotal chapter in Scotland’s spiritual heritage.