ferry, bus, ferry, repeat

Ferry, bus, ferry, repeat.  Today was the day of rest for our bus and driver so we headed off to the island of Iona.  To get there we walked to the ferry in town.  We took the ferry to the island of Mull (45 mins).  Then we got on a coach bus and had a quite funny commentary from a local as we crossed the island (90min).  It was a one track road with pull offs every so often so traffic could pass each other.  It's the 4th largest island in Scotland and the latest census said there were 2800 people who live there.  There's evidence of inhabitants from the Bronze Age. Interestingly, Mull was made from lava 50-60 million years ago. (all interesting tidbits from the driver as we drove along). It was a very picturesque drive but the rain speckled windows didn't make for many nice pictures.  When we reached the other side we got on a smaller ferry and headed to Iona (15mins).  Since it was after noon we decided to eat first and then see the abbey.  Unfortunately, lunch took quite awhile so we didn't have as much time to see the abbey as I had hoped.   It was quite beautiful with the sea in the background.  It dates back to 563 when Columba came from Ireland and founded the monastery to spread Christianity.  It was a basic building but I know it had treasures to be seen.  I felt a bit rushed to see it and even more saddening is that I forgot to bring an extra camera card in my purse and I filled the one I had after some shots of the abbey.  No worries about more pictures, I've got a nice and empty card to begin our adventures with tomorrow!

Looking back at Oban

On the island of Mull- 3 lochs

The harbor at Iona

 A view of the Abbey from the ferry.

The cemetary