WE ACKNOWLEDGE THE QUANDAMOOKA PEOPLES, UPON WHOSE LANDS IONA COLLEGE STANDS. WE RESPECT AND HONOUR ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER ELDERS, PAST, PRESENT AND EMERGING.
IONIANS PRAY THAT GOD’S GRACE INSPIRES AND EMPOWERS US TO BE PEOPLE OF RECONCILIATION AND JUSTICE.
WE ALSO ACKNOWLEDGE AND GIVE THANKS TO EVERYONE IN THE ARMED AND EMERGENCY SERVICES WHOSE GENEROSITY AND DEDICATION CONTINUE TO HELP US GROW AS A NATION OF PEACE, HARMONY, AND FREEDOM.
In 2026, Iona College proudly invites students to take part in the inaugural Spirit of Iona Tour, a 15-day immersive journey through France, England, and Scotland.
This extraordinary opportunity is far more than a trip — it is a celebration of our story, our spirit, and what it truly means to be Ionian.
In partnership with Educational Journeys, this once-in-a-lifetime experience brings to life the rich tapestry of history, faith, culture, sport and the arts that define our College.
Students will travel from the birthplace of St Eugene de Mazenod in Aix-en-Provence, to the battlefields of the Western Front, through the iconic landmarks of Paris and London, the university city of Oxford, and ultimately to the sacred shores of the Isle of Iona — a spiritual source and namesake of our College.
This is a journey of identity, discovery, and deep connection.
This is the Spirit of Iona Tour.
Departure
Sunday, 20 September 2026 — Brisbane*
Return
Tuesday, 6 October 2026 — Brisbane*
*Dates are subject to change and may vary slightly upon final confirmation and bookings.
Participation is open to full-fee paying families whose commitments are paid in full, or on-schedule with a College billing plan.
• Aix-en-Provence: Explore the birthplace of St Eugene de Mazenod, attend Mass at the Chapel of the Oblates, and tour the historic streets and cathedrals that shaped the founder of the Oblates.
• Marseille: Visit Eugene’s tomb, the Old Port, Notre Dame de la Garde, and key sites of Oblate mission and legacy.
• Paris: Stand atop the Eiffel Tower, stroll the Champs-Élysées, explore the Louvre, descend into the Catacombs, cruise the Seine, and participate in a French cooking masterclass. Reflect at sacred shrines including the Miraculous Medal and St Vincent de Paul.
• Villers-Bretonneux: Honour Australian soldiers at the Sir John Monash Centre, Australian War Memorial, and FrancoAustralian Museum.
• London: Experience a West End show, the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, Lord’s Cricket Ground, the Natural History Museum, and more. Attend Mass, explore historic landmarks, and cruise the Thames.
• Oxford: Be guided through the hallowed halls of Oxford University by a current student, exploring centuries of academic tradition and culture.
• Oban: Arrive via train and coach to Scotland’s western coastline — a stunning gateway to the Hebrides.
• Isle of Iona: Conclude the tour on the island that inspired our College’s name. Experience a place of pilgrimage, spiritual renewal, and profound historical significance, tracing the mission of St Columba and the roots of Iona College’s enduring legacy.
This tour is a living expression of what it means to be Ionian. It will:
• Bring history to life — walking in the footsteps of saints, artists, soldiers and scholars
• Deepen faith and spirituality — through liturgy, sacred sites, and reflection
• Celebrate culture and creativity — from Parisian art to London theatre
• Encourage global citizenship — through immersive, real-world learning
• Strengthen identity and connection — through shared experience and tradition
ESTIMATED COST PER STUDENT
30 Students $10,605
25 Students $11,025
20 Students $12,075
These costs are an estimate only, a guiding price based on indicative numbers, and are subject to change.
• Non-refundable deposit: $800 per participant
• Final payment due 10 weeks prior to departure
INCLUSIONS
• International return flights (Brisbane – Nice / Glasgow – Brisbane)
• Accommodation (mix of hotels and hostels)
• All scheduled ground, rail, and ferry transportation
• Breakfast and dinner daily
• Entry to all itinerary activities and cultural sites including:
• Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Arc de Triomphe, Catacombs, Seine River Cruise
• West End Theatre show, London Eye, Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, Lord’s Cricket Ground, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, Natural History Museum
• 3-day Paris Metro Pass and 3-day London Oyster Card
• Guided and immersive learning experiences:
• French cooking class, Oxford student-led university tour, Sir John Monash Centre workshop
• Tour management, local guides, and 24/7 incountry support
• Full travel risk and security support provided by World Travel Protection
ADDITIONAL COSTS TO BUDGET FOR
• Passport and visa (if required)
• Travel insurance (mandatory)
• Lunches, snacks, and drinks with meals
• Personal spending money
• Any optional activities not listed in the itinerary
• Pre-departure briefing and family information evening at the College
Please click on the link below to express your interest in the Spirit of Iona Tour 2026.
This will help us gauge numbers and keep you informed of important updates.
https://forms.office.com/r/ttxKxR3tn1
The next step is for students and families to attend an upcoming Information Night hosted by the College online via Teams on Thursday 28 August 2025.
Further details regarding the itinerary, costs, enrolment process, and travel expectations will be provided during this session.
We look forward to welcoming you on this journey of discovery, connection, and Ionian pride.
This is more than a tour. It is a pilgrimage of the heart, a celebration of our College’s spirit, and a bold step into the world as proud Ionians.
Join us in writing the next chapter of the Iona story — on the very soil where it began.
