Close to God - on Iona

Click on date below to book

This course requires previous participation in Experience Week.

Niels Paulsen & Erica Jakobs

Explore the forces of nature by walking the island, cultivating the garden, and preparing and cooking food together.

Situated on the west coast of Scotland, Iona is a sacred island known as a historic place of pilgrimage.

Traigh Bhan is the Findhorn Foundation's retreat house on this magical island. Traigh Bhan offers the opportunity for quiet contemplation, while the island itself - with its views and spectacular coastal scenery - is ideal for long walks of exploration and contact with nature's beauty.

If you need time to integrate the lessons of a workshop or space to reflect on your own journey and next steps, Traigh Bhan is the perfect place for spiritual rest and renewal. Comfortable and well-equipped, the house has its own peaceful sanctuary for prayer and meditation. Our residential Foundation custodian can guide you in making the most of your time.

For Foundation bus information to Iona please contact our Transport Department:
Tel: +44 (0)1309 678020 or email:

islands022All retreats cost £275 - £495 according to individual circumstances. This includes 7 nights accommodation (maximum 6 guests) in shared rooms and vegetarian food for shared meals. Arrival time is midday Saturday, and departure time is the next Saturday morning. We ask you to attune to the final amount you pay, by cash, debit card or credit card, with our residential custodian, while you are at Traigh Bhan on Iona.

Please pay only your deposit when you make your booking.

Prior participation in an Essential Findhorn programme is a prerequisite.

More information about the Isle of Iona

Niels Paulsen is an experienced workshop leader and a trained practitioner in massage, healing and personal development.



Erica Jakobs contributes in a variety of ways to the Findhorn Foundation and is a keen member of the Iona Group and workshop co-facilitator.