Guides › Atlantic (Eastern) Canada › Iona, Nova Scotia (Cape Breton)
City guide

Iona, Nova Scotia (Cape Breton)

Iona is an island in the Inner Hebrides, off the Ross of Mull on the western coast of Scotland. It is mainly known for Iona Abbey, though there are other buildings on the island.

Type City

Why go

  • Island off the west coast of Scotland.
  • Known for Gaelic culture, Gaelic heritage, Irish culture, Irish heritage.
  • 1 hand-picked place to stay.

History

Iona is an island in the Inner Hebrides, off the Ross of Mull on the western coast of Scotland. It is mainly known for Iona Abbey, though there are other buildings on the island. Iona Abbey was a centre of Gaelic monasticism for three centuries, and is today known for its relative tranquility and natural environment as well as for its importance to pilgrims. It is a tourist destination and a place for spiritual retreats. Its modern Scottish Gaelic name means "Iona of (Saint) Columba".

Where to stay

4115 NS-223, Iona, NS B2C 1A3, Canada
Indoor

Getting there by ferry

Little Narrows (east)
Ferry terminal · 14 km from the centre · Government of Nova Scotia
Outdoor
Little Narrows (west)
Ferry terminal · 14 km from the centre · Government of Nova Scotia
Outdoor

Where things are

Full geo-intelligence in Better Mapping →
Local search powered by Geoverts and geo-intelligence by Better Mapping base map © OSM

Photographs

When to go

Tourist season
May – September

The warmer, longer-day half of the year is the safest bet for a first visit.

Shoulder season
April, October

Cooler and quieter, with fewer visitors and better value.

Worth avoiding
Deep winter

Short days and the coldest weather — check local conditions before travelling.

Getting there & around

Getting there. We do not yet hold airport or rail details for Iona, Nova Scotia (Cape Breton) — check the official tourism sources below for the best routes in. By water: 2 ferry terminals within 20 km (nearest: Little Narrows (east), 14 km).

Getting around. Use the map above to orient yourself; nearby hotels, attractions and places to eat are listed from the live Ultimate data for Iona, Nova Scotia (Cape Breton). Local transit details will be added as the guide is expanded.

Trains & rail

National rail

Coaches & shuttles

Intercity coach
Intercity coach