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28 March 2022

As I walk back through the golf course from the west coast of Iona, I rejoin the coast road and turn left towards the small ferry terminal. I can see the ferry chugging its way over from Fionnphort, but I still have time to briefly check in on Martyr’s Bay, the handily placed small beach adjacent to the terminal. Popular with families and for a quick paddle while waiting for the ferry, Martyr’s Bay recalls the killing of 68 monks here by the Vikings in 806 AD. How very family-friendly. I rejoin the ferry and reflect on a wonderful four hours on this very special, sacred island. I’m not religious in any way, but I am interested in and respectful of the impact religions can have on communities and individuals. There’s an undeniable spiritual aspect to Iona, but I also think walking in nature is a spiritual endeavour in itself.