Fàilte gu Cridhe Gàidhealach Albainn Ùr
History of Iona
The Iona area is rich in Gaelic heritage. It was first settled in the early 1800's by MacNeils from the Island of Barra in Scotland. Donald 'Og' MacNeil spotted Iona during his service with the British Army. On a trip back to Barra, Donald 'Og' told his family and friends of the advantages of the Iona area; "Besides the fuel in the forests, water in the ground, and fish in the sea, you will find there more shelter from the North wind, better and earlier ripening harvests, and good fishing ground." Donald 'Og' came back to Canada to fight in Louisbourg in 1758 and Quebec City in 1759, where he died. His message was followed. In 1800 four MacNeils from Barra arrived at Iona. Several years later two of Donald 'Og's own sons also settled here. Today, the MacNeils' and MacKenzies, the MacLeans and MacDonalds, and the Gillises and Campbells "All Call Iona Home."
Nearby Amenities
In neighbouring Eskasoni First Nation you will find Eskasoni Cultural Journeys and the Goat Island Trails. Here you will be able to learn about, and experience, the Mi’kmaq culture and story.
Visit near by Christmas Island and take in one of the Gaelic language events hosted by Fèis An Eilean.
Explore the Iona Region for a complete list of accommodations and activities.
Where to Eat
Wheelhouse Café
Darby’s Old Church Restaurant
Frolic & Folk Pub & Grill
Sacred Turtle Farm Shop
Beaver Cove Take-out
Bras d' Or Lake
The Highland Village overlooks the beautiful Bras d’ Or Lake, an inland sea that was designated as a UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Reserve in 2011. The surface area of the Bras d'Or Lake is 1,100 km2 (424 square miles). The land area that makes up the watershed is an additional 2,500 km2 (965 square miles). The total area of the Bras d'Or Lakes watershed is 3,600 km2 (1,390 square miles). For more on the lake and its UNESCO status visit the Bras d’Or Lakes Biosphere website.