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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Iona Community
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DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20270626T160000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20270702T090000
DTSTAMP:20260630T083844Z
CREATED:20260411T131441Z
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UID:61479-1814025600-1814518800@iona.org.uk
SUMMARY:Experiencing Nature
DESCRIPTION:[vc_row][vc_column][vc_row_inner el_class=”container tabletfullcol reverse_column”][vc_column_inner el_class=”centertext_mobile”][vc_column_text css_animation=”fadeIn” css=”” el_class=”largeheading navy_title” el_id=”faqrooms”]\n\n\nIona is home to an extraordinary variety of wildlife\, from seabirds and wildflowers to coastal habitats shaped by wind\, weather and the sea. In this programme\, through exploration\, shared activities and reflection we’ll be learning more about the island’s wildlife and also about how we can be more aware of the natural world wherever we happen to be. Along the way\, we’ll uncover some of the folklore\, traditions and stories that we have\, for centuries\, attached to our plants and animals. Together we will consider the relationship between ecology and spirituality\, exploring how greater awareness of the natural world can nurture wonder\, gratitude and a deeper sense of connection with the divine. \nThis programme is for anyone with an interest in nature\, whether you’re an experienced wildlife enthusiast or simply curious about the world around you. Set within the rhythm of life at Iona Abbey\, the week offers an opportunity to engage with the beauty of the island while exploring what it means to live more attentively and responsibly within the wider web of life. \n\n\n\n\nCosts: 6 Nights: £960 or £480 concession.\nWhere: The Iona Abbey\nWhen: 26.06.2027 – 02.07.2027\nLed by: Bob Gilbert\n\n\n[/vc_column_text][vc_btn title=”Book Experiencing Nature” style=”custom” custom_text=”#666666″ css=”” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fbooking-directly.com%2Fwidgets%2FZ8ayvaEvw2SsrbCpGHLzeQZxQGqxQJy163aSHXVJnHbgCb53vffml4WKihlt5%2Fproperties%2Funit-selection%3Fsearch_stay_dates%3D%257B%2522checkInDate%2522%253A%25222027-06-26%2522%252C%2522checkOutDate%2522%253A%25222027-07-02%2522%257D%26search_occupancies%3D%255B%257B%2522numberOfAdults%2522%253A2%252C%2522children%2522%253A%255B%255D%257D%255D|target:_blank|rel:nofollow” el_class=”tealbtn generalbtn”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_separator css=””][vc_column_text css=””]\n\n\nAbout the programme\nIona is home to an extraordinary variety of wildlife\, from seabirds and wildflowers to coastal habitats shaped by wind\, weather and the sea. This programme invites you to slow down\, pay attention and discover some of the stories held within the island’s landscape. \nTogether\, we’ll explore a range of habitats\, learning how to recognise birds\, plants and other wildlife while developing the skills of observation and attentiveness. Along the way\, we’ll uncover some of the folklore\, traditions and cultural stories connected to the natural world\, deepening our understanding of both the island and our place within it. \nThis programme is for anyone with an interest in nature\, whether you’re an experienced wildlife enthusiast or simply curious about the world around you. Through guided exploration\, conversation and reflection\, we’ll consider the relationship between ecology and spirituality\, exploring how greater awareness of the natural world can nurture wonder\, gratitude and a deeper sense of connection with creation. \nSet within the rhythm of life at Iona Abbey\, this nature retreat offers an opportunity to engage with the beauty of the island while exploring what it means to live more attentively and responsibly within the wider web of life. \n  \n\n\n\n\nMeet the Programme Leader(s)\n\n\n\n\n  \nBob Gilbert is an environmental writer\, broadcaster and Associate Member of the Iona Community whose work explores the rich relationship between nature\, story and spirituality. Through his writing\, broadcasting and teaching\, he helps people look more closely at the natural world\, uncovering the folklore\, history and deeper meanings woven through the landscapes around us. \n  \n\n\n\n\nWhat to expect\n\n\n\n\nEach day will combine guided exploration\, wildlife observation\, conversation and reflection as we discover some of the birds\, plants and habitats that make Iona such a special place. Together\, we’ll spend time both outdoors and indoors\, learning how to recognise species\, understand their stories and deepen our appreciation of the natural world. \nThrough walks across the island\, visits to different habitats and shared discussions\, we’ll explore the rich connections between wildlife\, folklore and place. Alongside learning about the natural history of Iona\, we’ll reflect on the relationship between ecology and spirituality\, considering how attentiveness to the living world can shape the way we see ourselves\, one another and creation. \nThe programme will include opportunities for wildlife spotting\, plant identification\, storytelling and conversation\, as well as time for personal reflection and enjoying the beauty of the island. While this is not a specialist birdwatching retreat\, birds and birdlife will form an important part of our exploration\, alongside the plants\, habitats and seasonal wildlife that make summer on Iona so distinctive. No specialist knowledge is required — just curiosity\, a willingness to observe and an openness to learning. \nAlongside the programme sessions\, you’ll share in the daily rhythm of life at Iona Abbey\, including worship\, meals and community life. There will also be time to explore the island independently and enjoy moments of stillness in the landscape. \nThe tone of the week will be curious\, reflective and participatory. This nature retreat offers an opportunity to slow down\, pay attention and discover how greater awareness of the natural world can deepen our sense of wonder\, connection and care for creation. Blending elements of a wildlife retreat and environmental retreat with reflection and spiritual practice\, the week invites us to see the world around us with fresh eyes. \n\n\nKey Information\n\n\n\n\nBefore booking\, it’s helpful to know that this programme combines guided exploration of Iona’s wildlife and habitats with reflection\, discussion and spiritual practice. Together\, we’ll spend time observing birds\, plants and other wildlife while exploring the relationship between ecology and spirituality and our connection with the natural world. \n\n\n\n\n[/vc_column_text][vc_btn title=”Book Experiencing Nature” style=”custom” custom_text=”#666666″ css=”” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fbooking-directly.com%2Fwidgets%2FZ8ayvaEvw2SsrbCpGHLzeQZxQGqxQJy163aSHXVJnHbgCb53vffml4WKihlt5%2Fproperties%2Funit-selection%3Fsearch_stay_dates%3D%257B%2522checkInDate%2522%253A%25222027-06-26%2522%252C%2522checkOutDate%2522%253A%25222027-07-02%2522%257D%26search_occupancies%3D%255B%257B%2522numberOfAdults%2522%253A2%252C%2522children%2522%253A%255B%255D%257D%255D|target:_blank|rel:nofollow” el_class=”tealbtn generalbtn”][vc_separator css=””][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css_animation=”none” css=”” el_class=”largeheading navy_title”]\nBooking Information\n[/vc_column_text][vc_toggle title=”What’s included” css_animation=”none” custom_font_container=”tag:h2|text_align:left|color:%23568ea4″ custom_google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal” css=”” use_custom_heading=”true”]Your stay at Iona Abbey includes everything you need to fully take part in the experience: \n+ Accommodation in the Abbey \n+ Breakfast\, lunch and dinner each day \n+ All programme sessions \n+ Music\, art and craft opportunities \n+ Guided walks[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Pricing & discounts” css_animation=”none” custom_font_container=”tag:h2|text_align:left|color:%23568ea4″ custom_google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal” css=”” use_custom_heading=”true”] Prices vary depending on the type of week and length of stay. \n\nStandard week (6 nights): from £960 (adult)\n\nReduced rates available from £480\n\n\nChildren aged 5–15: £480\nChildren under 5: free (contact abbeybooking@iona.org.uk)\n\nA 20% non-refundable deposit is required to secure your booking. \nWe offer a 50% reduced rate for eligible UK residents\, including: \n+ Students \n+ Those on state benefits or pension \n+ Those earning below the real living wage \n+ Refugees\, asylum seekers\, or those experiencing homelessness \nA 15% family discount is automatically applied for groups of four or more (where adults pay full price). \nWe also have an Access Fund to support those who would not otherwise be able to attend. \nLearn more about financial support and how to apply.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Food & dietary” css_animation=”none” custom_font_container=”tag:h2|text_align:left|color:%23568ea4″ custom_google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal” css=”” use_custom_heading=”true”]All meals are provided\, with a focus on: \n+ Healthy\, seasonal\, and locally sourced ingredients \n+ Primarily vegetarian meals (with one optional meat meal per week) \nWe can cater for most dietary requirements (including vegan\, gluten-free\, and dairy-free)\, but please let us know in advance.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Accommodation” css_animation=”none” custom_font_container=”tag:h2|text_align:left|color:%23568ea4″ custom_google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal” css=”” use_custom_heading=”true”]+ 21 guest rooms (single\, twin\, triple and family rooms) \n+ Some rooms are accessible\, with lift access available to certain areas \n+ Guests may be asked to share a room\, particularly if travelling alone \n+ Families of up to four can usually be accommodated in one room \nIf you have specific requirements (e.g. accessibility or room type)\, please let us know when booking. \nFor full room details and accessibility information\, see our Accommodation FAQs.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Support our Access Fund” custom_font_container=”tag:h2|text_align:left|color:%23568ea4″ custom_google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal” css=”” use_custom_heading=”true”]While you are making your own booking\, please consider making a donation towards the Access Fund if you are able to\, which allows financially disadvantaged people to stay at Iona Abbey. Thank you. \nYour gift would help to pay towards: \n\n\n\n\n\n\n£1\,000\nA week for a family on Iona\n\n\n£300\nA week for a person on Iona\n\n\n£200\nA week for a child on Iona\n\n\n£100\nA week for a person at Camas\n\n\n£50\nA night on Iona\n\n\n£25\nA night at Camas\n\n\n\n\n[/vc_toggle][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css_animation=”none” css=”” el_class=”largeheading navy_title”]\nPlanning your stay\n[/vc_column_text][vc_toggle title=”Getting to Iona” css_animation=”none” custom_font_container=”tag:h2|text_align:left|color:%23568ea4″ custom_google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal” css=”” use_custom_heading=”true”]Travelling to Iona is part of the experience and involves: \n+ Ferry from Oban to Mull \n+ Bus across Mull \n+ Ferry from Fionnphort to Iona \nWe recommend planning your journey in advance and allowing plenty of time. \nView full travel guidance and advice on getting to Iona.[/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Arrival and Stay” css_animation=”none” custom_font_container=”tag:h2|text_align:left|color:%23568ea4″ custom_google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal” css=”” use_custom_heading=”true”]+ Arrival day is typically Saturday from 3pm onwards \n+ You’ll be welcomed at the jetty or Abbey on arrival \n+ Guests are invited to take part in daily community life\, including optional worship and light shared tasks[/vc_toggle][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text css=””]\nImportant to know\n\nFull balance must be paid 6 weeks before arrival\nCancellations within 6 weeks are non-refundable\nTravel insurance is strongly recommended\nThe Abbey is an alcohol-free environment\nWiFi is available but may be limited\n\n[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_btn title=”Essential Booking Information” style=”custom” custom_text=”#666666″ size=”lg” align=”left” css_animation=”fadeIn” css=”” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fiona.org.uk%2Fvisit-and-stay%2Fiona-abbey-essential-booking-information-2026%2F|target:_blank” el_class=”tealoutlinebtn generalbtn rightbtn”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_btn title=”FAQ” style=”custom” custom_text=”#6F2C3E” size=”lg” align=”left” css_animation=”fadeIn” css=”.vc_custom_1780672460027{border-color: #6F2C3E !important;}” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fiona.org.uk%2Fvisit-and-stay%2Fiona-abbey-centre-faqs%2F|target:_blank” el_class=”tealoutlinebtn generalbtn rightbtn”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text css=””]\nNeed help?\nIf you have any questions before booking\, you can contact the team at ionaabbeybookings@iona.org.uk[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]
URL:https://iona.org.uk/event/experiencing-nature-2027/
LOCATION:Iona Abbey Centre\, Isle of Iona\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Iona Abbey Programme 2027
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://iona.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Birdwatching-26-June-to-2-July-2027.png
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