On an island without electricity, residents are being sought: who can settle in Ynys Enlli.

On an island without electricity, residents are being sought: who can settle in Ynys Enlli
On an island without electricity, residents are being sought: who can settle in Ynys Enlli

A unique opportunity on a remote island

According to The Sun: A remote island, devoid of electricity and shops, is looking for interesting people to live and work.

Ynys Enlli, also known as Bardsey Island, has only three permanent residents and no communications.

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Ynys Enlli is called 'The Island of 20,000 Saints' and is considered one of the holiest places in Britain.

In 2023, the island received the status of the first International Dark Sky Sanctuary in Europe, meaning that the extremely pure beauty of the night sky will be protected for future generations.

Wales already has several dark sky reserves, but areas with sanctuary status are much rarer and have stricter requirements for night sky quality.

The mountain on the island effectively shields it from light pollution from the mainland, with the nearest light pollution coming from Dublin, located over 70 miles across the Irish Sea.

A unique offer for new residents

Now, for the first time in nearly 20 years, the Bardsey Island Foundation is inviting a family or a couple of adventurers to join life on this island – it is a unique opportunity.

The foundation invites interested parties to apply, and they hope the successful candidate will settle on the island by September 2026.

New residents will need to manage 200 sheep and 25 Welsh Black cows that graze on the island along with the current tenant, Gareth Roberts from Aberdaron.

Those dreaming of life on the island must be prepared for the harshest conditions – there are no shops or schools, Wi-Fi or electricity, and water is drawn from a well. Resilience and readiness for difficulties are essential.

This small yet harsh island is one and a half miles long and half a mile wide.

There is no Wi-Fi or electricity in the houses, and water is taken from a well on the street. Getty

This island has been visited by pilgrims since the second century BC. It has also served as a refuge for pirates and fishermen for many years.

The old lighthouse, built in 1821, still stands at the southern tip of the island.

“Gareth and his family have lived here since 2007, and he knows the island well, its challenges and the benefits of life on Enlli,” said the Foundation’s CEO, Sian Stacey, to the BBC.
“We hope that new residents will understand the culture of island life, and it is important that they become part of the community.”
“The foundation has a five-year conservation plan, and there will be plenty of support for the tenants.”
The real life on Bardsey Island will undoubtedly be a challenge for new residents who must be prepared for it. This is not just an opportunity to escape the city bustle, but also a chance to be part of a special community. Given the island's status as a sanctuary, attention to preserving nature and culture will be of utmost importance.

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