Mull and Iona, Duart Castle
Today we got a really good impression of the Isles of Mull and Iona. Steve, our local driver and guide, collected us from Tobermory and took us via Craignure to Fionnphort where we took the ferry to Iona. The journey took us along the Sound of Mull that we had sailed the day before and through Glen More, a spectacular glacial valley with only two dwellings.
Iona is a very special place. Since the days of St. Columba pilgrims flock here, but it draws every kind of person with whatever background and spiritual ideas into its magical atmosphere.
Today Iona was showing off. The light breeze kept midges (mini mosquitoes) and clouds away. The air was crisp and clear with fantastic views far afield. We split up into groups to discover the nunnery and abbey, both originally founded around 1200. After a tasty lunch at a local hotel we all discovered our own Iona, sat on quiet beaches, shopped, sun bathed (at least the face and hands) or simply enjoyed being there.
A return ferry and coach ride brought us to Duart Castle. This is the seat of the MacLeans dating back to the 12th century and rebuilt in the early 20th century. After an introduction in the court yard we explored its state rooms and rooftop viewing area, as well as the tea room.
After dinner back in Tobermory we met some birds of prey and Richard and Sue Dewar. They run a bird hospital and do falconry to enlighten people that these majestic birds are part of nature and beautiful, not something to hunt and pursue. With these thoughts we retired to our cabins, ready for another day on Lord of the Glens.
