Finding the perfect Iona accommodation on a tiny island measuring only 1.5 miles wide by 3 miles long, can be tricky, especially during peak season.
However, despite the size of this Inner Hebridean beauty, you will discover a variety of accommodation options to suit most budgets. Though be warned that whichever Iona accommodation you choose, it is imperative to book very early to avoid disappointment.
Below are a selection of the best accommodations and their locations.
MAP OF IONA ACCOMMODATION
WHY VISIT IONA
There’s certainly something enchanting about this gem of an island, off the coast of Mull. St Columba arrived in 563AD and established a Christian community and built the now famous Iona Abbey.
Aside from the Abbey, Nunnery, Relig Odhràin & St Oran’s Chapel to visit, there are numerous interesting things to do on Iona. Easily explored on foot, Iona walks transport you to many beautiful beaches and hidden coves.
Whatever the weather, which is extremely changeable, the island lets you admire and marvel at its sights and peacefulness. So put this wee gem on the west coast of Scotland on your bucket list!
IONA HOTELS
ST COLUMBA HOTEL
Having enjoyed two nights here, we can confirm that the service provided at St Columba Hotel is fantastic. Staff are welcoming, friendly, warm, knowledgeable and truly want you to enjoy the Iona that they love.
So whether you want to book tours, uncover a hidden bay or spot wildlife, you only have to ask. The building was originally built as a clergy house and enjoys an enviable hillside position 200 yards from Iona Abbey and Reilig Odhrain.
Each of the comfortable 27 en-suite rooms come with either a garden or sea view, plus tea & coffee making facilities. A large double starts at £177 per night, a twin from £126 and a family room from £144 per night.
Relax with a pre-dinner drink in the lounge, looking out at the unfolding views. Or grab a spot by the roaring fire and sample the hotel’s own garden gin!
The restaurant uses fresh produce from the organic garden, together with locally sourced meat and fish. This culminates in fantastic dishes to choose from on the menu.
Rooms are comfortable and clean with crisp linen, complimentary shortbread and include a full Scottish breakfast. There are no TVs in rooms, but trust us, that is not a problem.
PROS:
- A warm Hebridean welcome
- Sweeping spellbinding views across Iona Sound
- Perfect base for peace & solitude, walking and exploring
- A Quiet Garden designed for meditation, peace and quiet within the grounds
- St Columba Larder across the road selling artisan foods, malt whiskies and more
>>> BOOK A ROOM HERE <<<
ARGYLL HOTEL IONA
Nestled in the village street, this 1870’s hotel has quirky shaped cozy sized rooms and staff who pride themselves on attention to detail.
All but one of the 17 bright bedrooms are en-suite, the other having its own exclusive bathroom next door. Each one is comfortable, unique and has tea/coffee making facilities and include a Scottish breakfast.
A double room starts at £120 per night, a twin at £185 and a King at £220. Single rooms can be booked from £80 while a Family room starts at £140.
The oldest part of the hotel retains plenty of character. Sit and admire the great views from the North and South facing lounges or read a book by a real fire. If you are looking for a TV, the only one you will find is located in the West Lounge.
With food provenance taking centre stage, meals are handcrafted affairs using local produce. The bright dining room has access to a sea facing sun lounge, and makes the perfect spot for a candlelit dinner.
PROS:
- Warm Hebridean hospitality
- Small hotel with a home-from-home feel
- Great base to explore the island
- A 3-minute walk from the ferry and 10 minutes from Iona Abbey
- No single supplement
IONA SELF-CATERING
IONA PODS
For those preferring to self-cater, Iona Pods are a unique, alternative and cosy option.
Situated on a working croft and strategically placed to ensure privacy, they enjoy wonderful mountain views.
The small timber framed pods with curved roof, are doubly insulated for warmth, modern and have mains electricity. The single open space offers a double bed together with single beds, thus accommodating up to four people.
Interiors are light, moden and airy and offer the perfect place to “get away from it all”. There is a spar shop on the hill from the ferry and St Columba Larder nearby for artisan foods, should you need provisions.
With a microwave, electric hob, kettle and fridge, it is easy to cook your own meals, using the cutlery and kitchenware onhand.
Coin operated washing machines and tumble dryers, together with large sinks are housed in a washroom.
PROS:
- Complimentary WiFi
- Come with a small fire pit and picnic bench outside each pod
- A 10-minute walk to sandy beaches and 12 minutes from Iona Abbey
CONS:
- No en-suite bathroom. A separate block provides male, female and disabled toilets and hot showers.
- 10-15 minute walk from the ferry, shops and pub
>>> BOOK A POD HERE <<<
IONA BED AND BREAKFAST
ARDORAN HOUSE
Ardoran House offers luxury accommodation and sumptuous breakfasts. Famous Iona Abbey is a 10-minute walk away and the ferry a 5-minute stroll.
The property looks out towards the island of Mull and the dramatic mountain vistas across the Sound of Iona. Whether you opt for a twin or double room, each is spacious modern and well-appointed.
Sumptuous duvets cover comfortable beds and en-suite bathrooms include complimentary toiletries. Rooms have a flat-screen TV, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities.
Start your day off in the dining room with its panoramic windows as you enjoy a wonderful breakfast. Return after a day of exploring and soak your tired muscles in the spa bath or sauna, located next to the conservatory.
Enjoy a delicious dinner at St Columba’s Hotel, before relaxing in the spacious lounge and star gaze!
>>> BOOK A ROOM HERE <<<
DO YOU NEED TO STAY OVERNIGHT ON IONA?
The quick answer is no! With the ferry from the tip of Mull only taking 10 minutes, a day trip is both easy and doable. Some visitors visit purely to take an Abbey tour which is fine if that’s what you want.
However, this tiny gem of an island is packed with hidden treasures just waiting to be discovered. We definitely recommend at least a one or two night stay, to enjoy the scenery, attractions and fabulous food.
There are so many interesting things to do on Iona. From the ancient and spiritual Abbey, walks to secluded white sandy beaches to simply enjoying the slow pace and stunning scenery. So stay overnight and really do this beautiful island justice.
GETTING TO IONA
Iona lies about a mile off the tip of Mull, and the shortest route is to take the car/passenger ferry from Oban on the mainland.
Be sure to book tickets on this popular route, which departs Oban and arrives in Craignure on the Isle Of Mull. Then allow 90 minutes without stops to travel west to reach the passenger ferry leaving Fionnphort to Iona.
USEFUL LINKS:
- Caledonian MacBrayne Ferries – check for up to date times and services
- West Coast Motors – bus service from Craignure to Fionnphort Ferry Terminal
IONA ACCOMMODATION CHOICE
Wherever you decide to lay your head, you certainly won’t regret visiting this special island and discovering what brings thousands of visitors here every year. But don’t forget to book early!
MORE IONA POSTS:
- 6 Stunning Iona Beaches In Scotland Accessible On Foot
- Superb Iona Walks : Exploring Scotland’s Island Gem
- 10 Unmissable Things To Do On Iona, Scotland
This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you, if you make a purchase through this link. This income goes towards the sites running costs and enables us to provide our readers with free content. Read our Disclosure.