Frequently Asked Questions
Getting There
Where is Iona?
Iona sits off the west coast of the island of Mull and is part of the Inner Hebrides islands. Getting there from the US requires planes, busses, trains and ferries. We are happy to answer your questions about travel arrangements; detailed travel notes will be provided to participants once you book.
What travel documents are required?
If you are coming from the US, you need a passport that is valid for at least six months after your return.
What is required vis a vis Covid precautions?
We ask all participants to be fully vaccinated and boosted, and take a rapid covid test the day of arrival to Iona. Depending on circumstances, we may ask groups to take a rapid test mid-week as well. Anyone testing positive will need to follow the St. Columba Hotel’s policies to self-isolate.
What about travel insurance? We strongly recommend travel insurance.
Do I need cash? Though almost all purchases can be made with credit card, it is good to have a small amount of cash on hand. The currency in Scotland is the pound sterling. You can get cash at ATMs at the airport or elsewhere in Scotland. The ATM on Iona isn’t always available.
Accommodations
Where we will stay on Iona?
The lovely St. Columba Hotel will be our home. Contact info is:
Isle of Iona, Argyll PA76 6SL, UK
+44 (0)1681 700304
When can we check in at the hotel?
Check-in time is 3 pm, but if your room is ready, you can get in sooner. Otherwise, your bags can be left safely near the main desk and you can wander around the island or relax in the hotel lounge.
Is there an elevator at the hotel?
No. Second floor rooms at St. Columba are accessible only by stairs; however, staff will take your luggage to your room when you arrive if you wish. The hotel staff will meet guests at the pier when their ferry arrives and transport luggage (and people) as needed, to the hotel, which is a 6-7 minute walk.
How is the wifi connection?
There is complementary WIFI access at the hotel but the connection can be spotty. It is usually fine in the lounge.
Are there laundry facilities?
You can ask for a laundry bag and the staff will do your laundry for a small charge.
Are there hair dryers?
Yes.
Are bathrooms in the rooms or shared on the hall?
All rooms are ensuite with private baths.
Can special dietary needs be accommodated? T
he hotel endeavors to meet the dietary needs of its guests. It is best to contact them directly to let them know in advance what your needs are. There are vegetarian options available at each meal, and produce is organic and grown in the hotel’s gardens.
Program Info
What time should I arrive the first day?
The opening reception is at 5 pm and we suggest arriving a couple hours beforehand.
How many people will be in our group?
Our two sessions will have 12 people and 13 people, respectively, along with your co-leaders.
Do I have to be “religious” to go on this pilgrimage?
We welcome people from all spiritual traditions or none. What is important is a curiosity, openness and respect for the history, traditions and current spiritual life of Iona. The Iona Abbey offers a simple morning and vespers (evening) services most days, and we include those services in our daily schedule. Attendance is optional but encouraged.
I’m curious but no means an expert. Will I be out of my depth?
Not at all. We welcome learners of all types and all styles and think each person in the group has something to teach as well as something to learn. We actively encourage people to share their gifts, such as singing, musical instruments, story-telling, yoga, birding, etc. In addition, we will share a comprehensive bibliography with participants well in advance of the trip if you’d like to read up on relevant topics.
How much walking is involved in the program?
Iona is a small island, about 3 miles by 1.5 miles and the only cars are those owned and driven by the residents. Thus we will be moving about the island on our own two feet. The Hotel is about a 5-10 minute walk to the Village Hall (where we hold our program sessions) and to the Abbey. You’ll likely walk at least 2 miles a day, and there is one long walk on our “Pilgrimage Day” where we walk about 7 miles. There are options for you to join part of that but not walk the whole way.
In addition, we offer two other excursions, one to Bridget’s Well, atop of Dun 1, the highest point on the island at 101 meters, and the other a walk to the Hermit’s Cell (about 2 l/2 miles round trip). If you have concerns about your mobility or ability to keep up with the group, we encourage you to talk with Jenny or Tricia.
Is food included?
A full Scottish breakfast is included each day; we have five dinners together, and two on your own. There is one packed picnic lunch on our Pilgrimage Day, otherwise lunch is on your own. We gather for an Opening Reception of wine, cheese and local delicacies. We end each trip with a special Farewell Dinner at a select location. Complete information on what expenses, in addition to meals, are covered can be found in the Terms and Conditions.
General Information
What do I need in order to plug in any devices?
The UK has its own standard wall outlets, and you will need a plug adaptor to use your devices.
What kind of clothes are needed?
Dress is casual. In general, bring clothes that you can layer. The weather varies greatly in Scotland, and you can experience sun, rain and windy conditions all in one day. Sturdy shoes for hiking, rain jacket and rain pants, daypack, and water bottle are all necessary.
Is there medical care on Iona?
There are no medical services or doctors on Iona. The closest hospital is an hour away on the island of Mull. In an emergency, someone can be airlifted on the island by helicopter and taken to nearest hospital.
Please be knowledgeable about the extent of your health care coverage while in Scotland and bring your health insurance information with you.
How do I sign up to join you in Iona?
All information related to registration, costs, methods of payments, and cancellation policies are found in the Terms and Conditions. The registration form can be accessed on our registration page.