Tobermory was bright and beautiful this morning as we set sail for Craignure, the main ferry terminal on the Isle of Mull. We then boarded a coach and settled in for scenic views as we drove to Fionnphort, where we took a short ferry ride to the island of Iona. Known as the “Cradle of Christianity,” Iona is home to around just 80 people and is only three miles long by one mile wide. Despite being small, Iona had a huge influence on the establishment of Christianity in Scotland, England, and throughout mainland Europe. Its rich religious history dates all the way back to 563 AD when Saint Columba arrived to Iona with twelve disciples and began spreading the gospel in an effort to convert the native Picts to Christianity.
After we walked up to the Abbey and had a look at the museum, we enjoyed a hearty lunch before catching the ferry back to Mull. Next up was a trip to Duart Castle, the seat of Clan MacLean. The castle has a long and dramatic history and was in ruins for years before being bought and restored by Colonel Sir Fitzroy MacLean, the 26th Chief of Clan MacLean, in 1911.
When we returned to Lord of the Glens, we settled in with some drinks and snacks as we sailed towards Oban. It was a clear evening, and guests were excited to see both Dunollie Castle and McCaig’s Tower, sites we will explore tomorrow.
To relax and reward ourselves after a long day, we enjoyed a fantastic whisky tasting after dinner where we sampled a handful of single malts.
Written by Anna Longton