The Hebrides seems to be where the old and wild world that once was planted its feet deep into the Earth. The rugged emerald coastline and wild sapphire sea merge in this place drenched in legends and stories of the past. Scotland’s Hebrides is not only the root of the wild Earth, but also the root of the Christian faith.
Although remote, there are few places that draw the soul closer to its Creator. The landscape is very much alive and changing and moving, just like our Lord in our lives. A Wonder Voyage to the Hebrides will remind you that God is very much alive and His hands are still at work in our world. Come and explore this magical corner of the world and see the beauty that you thought only existed in fairy tales.
Overview
- Pray where St. Columba prayed hundreds of years before.
- Share in the gospel with monks at an ancient monastery.
- Hike the wild Scottish coastline.
- Explore magical fairy pools and take a dip, if you dare!
- Join a wild sea adventure with a local fisherman.
Itinerary
Every Wonder Voyage itinerary (mission trip and/or pilgrimage) is personalized to the desires, direction and personality of each group. This itinerary is only a description of the kind of journey we can create for your unique team.
- Day 1 – Fàilte gu Alba
Fàilte gu Alba (Welcome to Scotland)! There is no better place to connect to the deep Celtic roots of your Christian faith. After you land in Edinburgh, we will travel to the west coast of Scotland and catch a ferry to Iona. During the 6th century, St. Columba established his monastery on this mystical isle. His work continues to draw and inspire pilgrims to this day. This will be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. - Day 2 – Sacred Iona
A ‘thin place’ is a where Heaven and Earth seem to overlap. Iona has been described as such a place for centuries. You will sense the presence of the holy saints and their love for Christ. St. Columba landed on the shores of Iona to bring the light of God to the dark world of the Picts. We will have the opportunity to worship in Iona Abbey and explore the surrounding hills and seaside trails. You will experience the peace that surpasses all understanding as you walk the paths of the pilgrims before you. - Day 3 – Skye
After a couple of ferry rides and a lunch in Oban we will head north to our next home, the Isle of Skye. As we travel up the west coast of Scotland we will breathe in her natural beauty. We’ll be sure to take in an adventure on the road. Once we arrive at Skye and settle in, we will do a bit of local exploration before we shop and prepare for Stone Soup. - Day 4 – Ancient Scotland
Depending on our ferry schedule, we’ll get in as much Skye exploration as possible. Then we will take a boat to the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides where we will stay in unique lodging. We will live in a fishing village that sits on the Atlantic coast of the Isle of Lewis, close to Carloway Broch. This is our ideal location for exploring the Western Isles – scenery, archaeology, environment and wildlife, with opportunities for walking, cycling, fishing, surfing or relaxing. You will love this place! - Day 5 – Isle of Lewis
Let’s take the day to circumvent Lewis, the northern-most island in the Hebridean archipelago. We will visit quaint villages, incredibly preserved prehistoric remains and the mysterious Clanais Standing Stones. With Viking, Scottish, Christian and pagan history, Lewis is a fascinating location for a day of exploration. We’ll also finish up our Stone Soup Celebrations and we will have lots to talk about around the peat fire at night. - Day 6 – Vistas
From one of the northern regions to the southern side of Scotland we will both sail and drive across the entirety of Scotland. Most of the day will be spent in getting to our final destination but we will surely find a bit of adventure on the road. From the highland to the lowlands, today you’ll have the chance to see a plethora of Scottish vistas. Edinburgh here we come! - Day 7 – Edinburgh
Your final day in Scotland will give you a bird’s eye view of Edinburgh. We will climb to the top of Arthur’s Seat and view the bustling city below. As we come the Royal Mile we will give you the afternoon to wander, explore museums, visit markets, or interact with more Scottish history. After a traditional Scottish meal to celebrate our week, we will have our Pass the Candle service. - Day 8 – Turas Math Dhuibh!
As a pilgrim, you have walked the path of your Celtic Christian heritage in Scotland. You have crossed country and cultural borders. You have straddled the boundaries of ocean and land and Heaven and Earth. You have walked in the steps of royalty, saints, and storytellers. It is our hope that you cross those borders in your daily life with a deep appreciation of your Christian past. May the joy-filled tales of the St. Martin’s Pilgrims bring the pilgrimage back home to stay.
Legacy Location
Legacy in The Western Islands, Scotland
- *This is the base cost of the trip. Your cost may differ depending on housing, activities, etc.