Iona’s highest point is Dun I (in Gaelic ‘Dun” means hill and ‘I’ Iona) standing some 101 metres (333 ft) above sea level. The wonderful panoramic views from the top are a just reward for the climb. On a relatively clear day you can make out many other Hebridean islands including the Treshnish Isles, Tiree, Coll, and on a really clear day, Rhum, Eigg and Skye with Ireland just out of sight to the south. Standing at the top by the cairn in this peaceful place it is hard to imagine the suffering of the monastic community in the 9th century at the hands of the Norse invaders as you look to the beach on the north east shore.
There is a signpost to indicate the start of the route to the summit on the road to the north end of the island. Once you leave the road the terrain is uneven and rocky as you climb, and slippery following wet weather, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
The Well of Eternal Youth, a natural pool in the cleft of rocks just below the Cairn towards the North, is associated with the 6th Century St Brigid of Ireland. In Gaelic “Hebrides” means the Islands of Bride or Brigid, and Iona is just one of these. St Brigid appears in Celtic Myths as having blessed the little pool while visiting Iona on the Summer Solstice. The blessing was to bring healing and renewal to all that came to seek a new beginning in their lives. You cannot visit this place without splashing your face with the water from this pool!
