Off the coast of Iceland lies an island in the middle of the North Atlantic Ocean, on which stands a single white house. The cottage stands alone on Elliðaey Island, without any neighbours, without any visible power lines, and no access to the outside world other than a speedboat. This small cottage has, therefore, gained the nickname of being “the world’s loneliest house.” But would you live there?
Image credit — Christopher Lynn
The House and Its Ownership
This isolated dwelling has sparked the imagination of many, hence myths and speculations about its origins and purpose. Contrary to rumours, it does not belong to a billionaire who wished for solitude, nor was it gifted to the Icelandic singer Björk. This house belongs to the Elliðaey Hunting Association, which, in the 1950s, had built it as a hunting lodge for members interested in hunting puffins and other seabirds.
Life on Elliðaey Island
Life on Elliðaey Island would, at best, be a challenge. The island itself is just a rugged and windswept landmass that is very steep, with patches of grass and low vegetation. It has no trees, no roads, and no permanent human inhabitants. Some of the very few regulars include members from the hunting association and researchers observing the island for its unique ecosystem.
Image credit — Yves Alarie
The Wildlife: Puffins and More
Perhaps the most remarkable feature of Elliðaey Island is its very healthy population of puffins. You’ll find these beautiful birds nesting high up on the cliffs where their nests are made. Birdwatchers and conservation enthusiasts flock to the shores of this isolated island each year to catch a glimpse of the birds. Although numerous bird species are known to inhabit the island, there is unfortunately not much terrestrial wildlife, mostly domesticated animals.
Food and Survival
If you took the chance to live here, your food supply could well run short very quickly. With no stores or farmlands, survival would depend upon fishing, hunting, and stocking up on supplies brought in by boat. The surrounding waters are rich with fish and puffins have been hunted for sustenance. Rainwater collection and storage have been devised for drinking and daily use.
A Place for Research and Retreat
While few have ever stayed in it, the house is supposed to be a refuge for hunters and researchers of the island’s ecology. To some visitors, this is a quiet, relaxing experience. However, to others, being so radically removed from humanity becomes intimidating. This house is far from the modern world: there are no special comforts or facilities inside it.
“The world’s loneliest house” could be a dream retreat for those in search of silence in natural surroundings. However, the island’s infrastructure is not suitable for long-term stays and harsh weather conditions accompanied by isolation make it that much more difficult. It is certainly a unique location with amazing views, but just keep in mind that a visit could be somewhat challenging for some.
So, would you visit this isolated island and take up the challenge of staying in “the world’s loneliest house?” Or would you rather leave it to the puffins to enjoy?