The beach called the North End, like all the beaches on Iona, has its own unique character, a combination of dramatic rocky shore and, to the left, dunes and a series of beautiful shell-sand beaches. As the name suggests, the beach is at the north end of the island, accessed by the road heading north which passes Iona Abbey. It is worth taking a detour to the Hill of Dun, which is enroute on the left and which is a superb viewpoint. At the end of the road is grassland with a path and two gates to access the shore. There are wonderful views to Mull, Staffa, the Treshnish Isles, Coll, Tiree, and even Skye on a clear day – surely one of the most painted and photographed vistas in the world. This is a wonderful beach in any weather, Carribean-like on a sunny day but also spectacular in windy or stormy weather, with the waves crashing against the rocks and the colours of the landscape moody and vibrant.
