Iona

We had an early start this morning and were on the road before 8. Our drive alongside Loch Lomond and onwards to Oban featured stunning scenery. We had allowed plenty of time for our journey and arrived at the Ferry terminal over an hour before our crossing.
We had dry calm weather for the crossing to Craignure so we sat on the top deck. We could see for quite a distance but the full drama of distant mountains was reduced thanks to clouds obscuring the summits. Upon arrival on Mull we bought lunch from the well stocked Spa shop (resisting the temptation to buy any of the numerous knick-knacks on offer!). We drove a short distance before stopping in a lay-by to eat our lunch. The heavens had opened by this point so we elected to stay in the car.
The roads on Mull are single track with passing places and we were grateful the latter were numerous as there were a fair few cars to pass over the course of our hour long drive across the island. At one point Andrew spotted a soggy bird of prey sitting on top of a telegraph pole. He managed to get a few photos before it flew away. Mull has successfully re-introduced sea eagles and we suspect this was one of them. When we arrived in Fionnphort we parked the car and walked to the jetty to wait for the ferry. Another smooth crossing later we were unexpectedly greeted by a car to take us to our B&B. Considering we didn’t even know when we were going to arrive we were very impressed! Our B&B is very smart and extremely comfortable. Our room has a sea view, a seal popped up to say hello just outside our window.
We braved the heavy rain to explore the island a little and made our way to the Abbey. We were very disappointed to discover they are now operating on a winter schedule and so there are no services while we are here. We discovered that the doors were open so was wandered in to look around. The interior is very plain and simple but with a warm, welcoming feel.
This evening we ate at one of the two hotels on Iona. Sarah chose salmon with roasted new potatoes and sweet chilli sauce followed by fruits of the forest creme brûlée with home made shortbread while Andrew went for roasted Iona lamb with black pudding mashed potato and a red wine jus followed by sticky toffee pudding. We both thoroughly enjoyed our meals and after a torch-lit walk back to the B&B we are now settled in for the night.Read more