The Secrets of Iona - Pt 2, Isle of Mull

Written by Hooked on Mull

Published on 24th January 2020

Coming to Mull to recharge? A trip to Dun I on the Island of Iona is a must.

The Isle of Mull and it’s surrounding Islands are renowned for being one of the most restorative destinations in the world. The tranquility, the wilderness, the endless skies and at any given time you are just a stones throw away from water.

Dun I. The highest Point of Iona.

Dun I, the highest point on the island of Iona, sits 333ft above sea level. The views from the top are spectacular, on a fine day you get a stunning view of the surrounding Hebridean islands, including the Treshnish Isles, Mull and Tiree and, weather permitting, out as far as the Isle of Skye.

Perched on the edge of the rocks at the top of Dun I, sits a small natural spring named ‘Tobah nah Aois’ which roughly translates to Well of Eternal Youth.

Saint Brigid. Guardian of The Well.

Surrounded by myth and legend, the guardian of the well is said to be Saint Brigid of Kildare. Legend says that Brigid, originally from Ireland, travelled to the Iona to seek her religious calling.

She climbed to the highest point on the Island and came across a solitary pool of water. She recognised its special significance and bathed in it reaching out to God to guide her. The rocks that surround the sacred pool were said to have become a staircase that led Saint Brigid to Bethlehem.

Brigid is written into religious history as the maid at the Inn, who instead of turning Mary and Joesph away, allowed them to use the stable in which Mary gave birth to baby Jesus. Brigid is also said to have helped Mary during childbirth, acting as her midwife.

Born again. The Well of Eternal Youth.

Often termed the summer twilight, the skies on the Hebridean Islands do not get dark until gone midnight during the summer months. Legend holds that St Brigid reappears at the well on Dun I every year on the Summer Solstice just as the skies darken to bless the well for the coming year.

Visitors to Iona who seek clarity, direction and wellbeing will wash their face or hands in the waters that are said to blessed by St Brigid to be restored (or born again), hence the name eternal youth, and it is said that they will be given the guidance and direction in their lives they need.

St Brigid’s Day. 1st February 2020.

February 1st has been dedicated in honour and remembrance of St Brigid, marking the first day of Spring – Halfway between the Winter Solstice and the Spring Equinox. This day was chosen due the significance of new life, new beginnings and the restorative energy of spring.

The Isle of Mull is a truly inspiring place to visit if you are looking for some R&R. In 2021 Benmore Estate is offering a Health and Wellbeing Retreat at Knock House. Our luxury breaks are all inclusive and hosted by guided experts, ensuring you get the most from your stay on the Island.

Find out more…

Luxury Mull Breaks