Iona Pilgrimage Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about Hineni's Iona Pilgrimage
Is this pilgrimage right for me?
Pilgrims are often drawn to Iona during seasons of reflection, renewal, or discernment. Some come seeking deeper prayer. Others come simply because something within them feels called to the island.
If you feel drawn to the beauty, quiet, and sacred rhythm of Iona, this pilgrimage may be an invitation.
Who This Pilgrimage Is For
Pilgrimage often begins with a quiet stirring of the heart.
People come to Iona from many walks of life, yet they often share a similar longing. This pilgrimage may be especially meaningful for those who feel drawn toward:
• A deeper life of contemplative prayer and spiritual reflection
• A season of renewal, discernment, or transition
• Sacred travel and the ancient practice of Christian pilgrimage
• The beauty of prayer experienced through creation and landscape
• A slower rhythm of life that allows space for listening to God
• Community rooted in spiritual friendship and shared journey
Many pilgrims come as pastors, spiritual directors, retreat leaders, and contemplative seekers, while others simply come with a desire to step away from the noise of daily life and spend time in prayer.
You do not need prior pilgrimage experience.
You do not need to know anyone else in the group.
You only need a willingness to walk gently, listen deeply, and allow the journey to unfold.
Sometimes the only qualification for pilgrimage is a simple question forming within the soul.
Why Iona?
Perhaps the deeper invitation is simply to follow that question and see where it leads.
read our blog on why Iona? https://www.agatheringministry.org/blogs/news/why-iona
What is the payment schedule for the pilgrimage?
To reserve your place on the Hineni Pilgrimage to Iona, a $500 nonrefundable deposit is required at registration.
The remaining balance is paid in two additional installments.
Double Occupancy- two twin beds or you can let us know you want them arranged as a king bed
Total Cost: $2,900 per person
• $500 deposit at registration
• $1,200 due September 1, 2026
• $1,200 due March 1, 2027
Single Occupancy – twin or double bed
Total Cost: $3,400 per person
• $500 deposit at registration
• $1,450 due September 1, 2026
• $1,450 due March 1, 2027
All balances must be paid in full by March 1, 2027.
These dates allow us to meet our contractual payment deadlines with the St. Columba Hotel on Iona.
What is the cancellation and refund policy?
Because lodging on Iona is limited and financial commitments must be made well in advance, the following cancellation policy applies.
• The $500 deposit is nonrefundable.
• If you cancel on or before September 25, 2026, you will receive a refund of all additional payments made, minus the $500 nonrefundable deposit.
• If you cancel between September 26, 2026 and May 1, 2027, you will receive 50% of payments made, minus the $500 nonrefundable deposit.
• No refunds can be issued after May 1, 2027.
If Hineni: A Gathering Ministry must cancel the pilgrimage for any reason, all payments received will be refunded in full.
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your trip in case of unexpected circumstances.
Register for the Iona Pilgrimage
Can I come alone?
Yes. Many pilgrims come on their own.
In fact, it is very common for people to arrive without knowing anyone else in the group. Pilgrimage has a way of creating a gentle and welcoming sense of community as the week unfolds.
If you register for a single room, you will have your own private space for rest and reflection.
Pilgrims who register for double occupancy and are traveling alone will be paired with another pilgrim by the Hineni team. We take care to make these pairings thoughtfully so that both pilgrims feel comfortable and supported during the week. Double occupancy rooms have twin beds. Many people discover that arriving alone allows them to enter the pilgrimage with greater openness to the experience, the landscape, and the community that forms during the week.
You will not be alone for long. By the end of the pilgrimage, many pilgrims leave feeling that they have walked the island with new friends and companions for the journey.
Do I need to be experienced in contemplative prayer?
No prior experience is required.
This pilgrimage welcomes both those who are new to contemplative practices and those who have long walked this path. Our teachers will gently guide the practices throughout the week, and pilgrims are invited to participate at the pace that feels natural for them.
About Travel
Do I need travel documents?
Yes. All U.S. citizens must have a passport valid for at least six months after your return date from the pilgrimage.
If you are not a U.S. citizen, please contact your embassy or consulate to ensure you have the appropriate travel documentation for entry into the United Kingdom.
Are vaccinations or COVID restrictions required?
We will follow all current UK travel requirements and notify participants if any precautions or documentation are required prior to departure.
What airport should I fly into?
The closest major airport is: Glasgow International Airport (GLA)
It is also possible to travel from: Edinburgh Airport (EDI) and from Edinburgh Waverly train to Glasgow Queen Street Station or fly through Dublin (DUB), Rejykjavik (KEH) or London Heathrow (LHR) to Glasgow on a commuter airline
Because of the length of travel to and from the isle of Iona, you will need to stay at least one night in Scotland before traveling to Iona and again before returning home.
Should I purchase travel insurance?
Yes. We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance.
Travel insurance can help protect you in case of illness, flight disruptions, or other unexpected events.
You may consult your travel agent or explore providers such as:
https://www.worldnomads.com/usa/
https://www.allianztravelinsurance.com/
Can I exchange US Dollars for Pounds at the airport?
Yes. There are ATM machines available in the airport and they usually provide the best exchange rate.
Please notify your bank before traveling so they know your card will be used internationally.
ATMs typically provide a better exchange rate than currency exchange counters. There are currently no ATMs on the Isle of Iona, so it is wise to bring some cash with you.
Getting to the Isle of Iona
Traveling from Glasgow to Iona takes approximately six to seven hours depending on connections.
The journey is part of the pilgrimage and can be completed entirely by public transportation.
The route is:
- Land in Scotland and travel to Oban (spend the night here)
- Ferry from Oban to Craignure (Isle of Mull)
- Bus from Craignure to Fionnphort across Isle of Mull
- Ferry from Fionnphort to Iona
Read our blog on traveling to Iona
https://www.agatheringministry.org/blogs/news/a-simple-travel-guide-for-pilgrims-to-the-isle-of-iona
Once you arrive on Iona, the St. Columba Hotel is about a 0.4 mile walk from the ferry jetty.
You may call the hotel upon arrival and they will collect your luggage if arranged ahead of time.
Hotel phone:
+44 01681 700304
About Our Schedule - When should I arrive on Iona?
Our pilgrimage officially begins with an opening gathering at 4:30 PM on September 25, 2027.
Please arrange your travel to arrive on the island in time for our opening session.
What if my travel is delayed?
Travel disruptions occasionally happen.
If you arrive after the opening gathering has begun, please come and join us when you arrive.
Dinner will be served that evening at the hotel and you may join the group then.
What do our days on Iona look like?
Our days follow a contemplative rhythm anchored by worship at Iona Abbey at 9:00 AM and 9:00 PM.
Each day includes:
• British Breakfast at the hotel
• Morning teaching and contemplative practice
• Free time in the afternoon for rest or exploration
• Evening dinner together
• Evening prayer at the Abbey
There will also be a longer pilgrimage walk during the week, an extended time of silence, and a free day for exploration.
About the St. Columba Hotel
The St. Columba Hotel is a historic pilgrim hotel located on the Isle of Iona overlooking the Sound of Iona and the hills of Mull. Just a short walk from Iona Abbey and the ferry jetty, it has welcomed travelers and pilgrims for generations. The hotel is known for its warm hospitality and its excellent farm-to-table cuisine, offering traditional Scottish breakfasts and four-course dinners each evening. With comfortable rooms and peaceful gathering spaces, the St. Columba provides a quiet and welcoming home for pilgrims during their time on the island.
St. Columba Hotel
Isle of Iona, Argyll PA76 6SL, UK
Phone: +44 (0)1681 700304
Website: www.stcolumba-hotel.co.uk
Check-in begins after 3:00 PM.
Do I need to prepare for stairs?
Some second-floor rooms are accessible only by stairs. Hotel staff will assist with carrying luggage.
If stairs may present a challenge, please contact the Hineni team before registering. agatheringministry@gmail.com
Is there WiFi at the hotel?
Yes. Complimentary WiFi is available. However, because of the island’s remote location, the signal can sometimes be inconsistent in guest rooms. The lounge area typically has the best connection.
Are bathrooms private?
Yes. All rooms have private ensuite bathrooms and linens are provided.
Can the hotel accommodate special dietary needs?
Yes. The hotel can accommodate food allergies and vegetarian diets. Please notify us on your registration form and remind the hotel staff when you arrive.
Are laundry services available?
Yes. The hotel can wash and dry laundry for a small fee.
Are hair dryers available?
Yes. Hair dryers are provided in guest rooms. Because the UK uses 220 volt outlets, American hair dryers can overheat and should not be brought.
Can I arrive early or stay longer?
You may contact the hotel directly if you would like to arrive earlier. However, before and after our pilgrimage the hotel is usually fully booked. Nearby accommodations such as the Argyll Hotel may have availability.
General Information
Will my phone work in Scotland?
Many U.S. phones work internationally if you have an international plan. However roaming charges can be high. Please check with your mobile provider before traveling. Cell service on Iona is very limited.
What kind of plug adapter do I need?
The UK uses a different outlet than the United States. You will need a UK plug adapter. The UK also uses 220 volt power, so most American hair tools will not function properly even with converters.
What currency is used?
The currency in the United Kingdom is the British Pound (GBP). Exchange rates change daily. You can check current rates by searching online for: “USD to GBP exchange rate.” Most places accept credit cards, but some shops on Iona are cash only, and there is currently no ATM on the island.
What expenses should I plan for?
You will need funds for:
• Travel to and from Iona
• Lunches during the pilgrimage on Iona
• Snacks or beverages
• Laundry services
• Tips, taxes and gratuity
• Optional excursions on the free day & any souvenirs
• Donations to local churches or organizations
What should I bring?
Bring any medications you take regularly and a list of important medical information.
You should also bring:
• A journal
• Spiritual books
• Art supplies
• Anything that nurtures your spiritual life
What clothing should I bring?
Dress on Iona is casual. Because the weather can change quickly, we recommend bringing:
• Layered clothing
• Waterproof jacket
• Rain pants
• Sturdy waterproof walking shoes or hiking boots and walking sticks
What level of physical activity should I expect?
Our pilgrimage includes moderate walking.
Most gatherings take place in or near the hotel, and the Abbey is a short walk away. Some activities include walking on uneven ground and gentle hills. If you have concerns about mobility, please contact the Hineni team before registering.
What if I need medical care?
There are no medical services on the Isle of Iona.
The nearest hospital is on the Isle of Mull, approximately one hour away.
In emergencies, medical evacuation by helicopter may be necessary. Please consult your physician before traveling if you have health concerns.
Also check with your health insurance provider to confirm your coverage while traveling internationally.
Bring your insurance information with you.
Ready to Begin the Pilgrimage?
If you feel drawn to the sacred island of Iona, we invite you to join us.
Hineni Pilgrimage to Iona
September 25–30, 2027
St. Columba Hotel
Isle of Iona, Scotland
Space is limited to 35 pilgrims and retreats on the island often fill quickly.
Reserve your place and begin the journey.