Iona Abbey Tours and Activities

Things to do near Iona Abbey

When visiting Iona Abbey, immerse yourself in birdwatching, enjoy a scenic boat trip, or take a ferry to Iona. Consider volunteering at the abbey for a rewarding experience, and explore various good retreats available in the area. Additionally, engage in creative activities to make the most of your visit to this serene Scottish isle.

Shopping

While on Iona, enjoy local shops like the Iona Craft Shop, featuring unique handmade crafts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit Oban's shops, about 24.1km away, where you can find a range of gifts, local produce, and traditional Scottish items.

Recreation

Enjoy a round of golf at Vaul Golf Club, located 32.2km from Iona Abbey, where you can embrace the outdoors and challenge yourself on the greens. The club's scenic views and fresh air provide a perfect backdrop for relaxation and recreation.

Adventure

Explore Mull Electric Bikes, located 29.0km from Iona Abbey, where you can pedal through stunning landscapes and enjoy the fresh Scottish air. Experience the thrill of cycling while soaking in the scenic beauty of the Isle of Mull, making for an unforgettable adventure.

Nightlife

Iona Abbey offers a serene evening atmosphere, perfect for stargazing and quiet reflection. For a unique experience, enjoy a drink at the St Columba Hotel’s bar, or take a leisurely stroll along the beach, soaking in the tranquil beauty of the Isle of Iona at night.

Find the best attractions near Iona Abbey

While visiting Iona Abbey on the Isle of Iona, you can explore a range of attractions, including the historic Iona Heritage Centre and the stunning abbey buildings and church. The island offers beautiful beaches and outdoor adventures, perfect for those seeking a mix of history and nature. Don't miss the chance to soak in the unique charm and spiritual significance of this remarkable destination.

• Fingal's Cave: A spectacular natural wonder, Fingal's Cave boasts impressive basalt columns and echoes the sound of the crashing waves. Located 11.3km from Iona Abbey, this outdoor adventure spot offers a surreal experience, ideal for nature lovers and those seeking a unique landscape.
• Iona Heritage Centre: Situated only 483m away from Iona Abbey, the Iona Heritage Centre immerses you in the rich history and culture of the island. Discover local artefacts, exhibitions, and stories that highlight Iona's significance in Scotland's heritage.
• St. Oran's Chapel: Just 161m from Iona Abbey, St. Oran's Chapel is a serene and historic site. Its ancient stone structure and tranquil atmosphere make it a perfect spot for reflection and appreciation of the island's spiritual legacy.

Best time to go to Iona Abbey

The best time to visit Iona Abbey can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Iona Abbey falls in August, when visitor numbers are high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Iona Abbey falls in February, visitor numbers are low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	44.1°F (6.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
February	43.5°F (6.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
March	44.4°F (6.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	46.9°F (8.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	50.7°F (10.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
June	55.0°F (12.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
July	57.4°F (14.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Slightly High
August	57.6°F (14.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Slightly High
September	56.1°F (13.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
October	52.7°F (11.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	48.6°F (9.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
December	45.7°F (7.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Iona Abbey

To save money on your visit to Iona Abbey, plan your trip between January to February or November, as these months offer lower accommodation prices. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates, or check Expedia's last-minute deals. Mondays are the least expensive days to stay, while Sundays are the priciest. Use Expedia to filter for budget options and eco-friendly hotels, and consider bundling your accommodation with flights for additional savings. Walking is a great way to explore the area without spending on transport.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Iona Abbey are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Iona Abbey is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Iona Abbey is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Iona Abbey is Sunday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can organise your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable accommodation first. Additionally, you can refine your options by hotel type—simply select the Eco-certified filter to explore sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are ready for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Iona Abbey hotel booking with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.