Day 1: Arrival in Glasgow
Arrive in Glasgow and check in. Depending on your arrival time, take the opportunity to rest or explore the city at your leisure.
Day 2: Explore Glasgow
In the afternoon, meet as a group and head out to explore Glasgow. Visit George Square, Glasgow’s City Hall, and Glasgow Cathedral. The evening includes a group dinner to a local favorite. Overnight in the heart of downtown Glasgow.
Day 3: Travel to Iona
Check out of your Glasgow hotel and embark on the journey to Iona. First, travel by train from Glasgow to Oban, then catch a ferry to the Isle of Mull. After a bus ride across the island, take the ferry from Fionnphort to Iona. Upon arrival, check in at the Argyll Hotel, enjoy tea and scones in the garden, and have dinner at the hotel. In the evening, attend an optional service at Iona Abbey.
Day 4: Hike to Columba’s Bay
After breakfast, gather for a 6-mile round trip hike to Columba's Bay. The hike is mostly even, with a few rocky areas, and offers breathtaking views of Iona’s coastline. If you prefer not to hike, alternative options will be available. Return for dinner at the Argyll Hotel and an optional evening service at Iona Abbey.
Day 5: Explore Iona Abbey
After breakfast, explore the historic Iona Abbey, where you can learn about its Celtic heritage and spiritual significance. Spend the afternoon reflecting or enjoying the island’s peaceful atmosphere. In the evening, walk to the White Strand of the Martyrs for stunning coastal views before returning to the Argyll Hotel for dinner.
Day 6: Optional Excursion to Staffa
Today, you have the option to take a boat trip to the uninhabited island of Staffa, famous for its dramatic Fingal’s Cave and puffin colonies. The excursion involves some steep climbing and hiking, but there are also opportunities to enjoy the island from the dock. If you prefer a more relaxed day, stay on Iona and explore at your own pace. Return to the Argyll Hotel for dinner and an optional evening service at Iona Abbey.
Day 7: “Thin Places” on Iona
Experience the sacredness of Iona with a gentle walk to Port Ban, a quiet west coast beach known for its spiritual significance. After lunch, enjoy free time to reflect or explore. In the evening, gather for a group reflection at the Argyll Hotel lounge.
Day 8: Silence Day
Today is dedicated to silence for personal prayer, reflection, and spiritual growth. After a morning group gathering, spend the day in solitude, with the option for a break in the afternoon for tea and scones. In the evening, enjoy a private showing at Aosdana Jewellery to learn about Iona’s Celtic art heritage. The day ends with dinner and an optional evening service at Iona Abbey, followed by a sunset hike up Dun I for panoramic views of the island.
Day 9: Last Day on Iona
On your final full day on Iona, enjoy free time to reflect or explore the island. In the afternoon, join the group for tea and scones in the Argyll Hotel garden. The day concludes with a group dinner and final gathering for reflection in the lounge.
Day 10: Depart Iona for Glasgow
Say goodbye to Iona and take the ferry back to the Isle of Mull. Travel by bus to Craignure, then catch the ferry back to Oban. Enjoy lunch and some free time to browse before catching the train back to Glasgow. Once back in the city, check into the Point A Hotel for your final night. Join the group for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 11: Farewell
After breakfast, say your goodbyes and head to the airport for your return journey or onward travel. If you're flying from Glasgow Airport, the Glasgow Airport Express bus offers an easy transfer from the hotel.