Little needs to be said about the island of Iona, known and loved across the world as one of the cradles of Western Christianity.
Bishop's House, which looks out over the Sound of Iona and nestles in the shadow of Iona Abbey, was built by Bishop Chinnery Haldane in 1894 as a house of 'prayer, study, contemplation and Eucharist'. The beautiful Chapel of St Columba, which runs daily services for guests and visitors to the island, is located in the centre of the House.
Bishop's House has 13 bedrooms, providing accommodation for up to 23 people. Iona is run very much as a traditional retreat house with guest looking after their own rooms and helping with some light household tasks.
The House has a fine tradition of good wholesome home cooking. During the year it caters mainly for larger groups of guests but does run open weeks for individuals and small groups to come on retreat and enjoy the island.
In November 2007 the Diocese of Argyll and the Isles will for the first time run facilitated retreats at the House. It is hoped this will encourage visitors to book a retreat at what is a very peaceful time on Iona.
