Tiny Welsh island with more sheep than people and no wifi needs new tenants
A remote island off the coast of Wales that has no Wi-Fi or electricity and has more sheep than people is looking for new tenants to live and work there.
Ynys Enlli, off Gwynedd’s Llyn peninsula, now has a population of three ruling the island, which is only a mile and a half at its longest and half a mile at its widest.
For the first time in almost 20 years, the opportunity has arisen for a nature-loving family or couple to live here, mentored by current tenant farmer Gareth Roberts.
The new residents, also known as Bardsey Island in English, will be responsible for the management of the 200 sheep and 25 Welsh Black cattle that graze there.
Those who want to live there will have to survive with only the most basic amenities, such as running water from a well and the absence of shops and schools.
There are also 10 holiday homes that welcome visitors to the island between March and October.
For centuries, Ynys Enlli was called the “Island of the 20,000 Saints” and was considered one of the holiest places in Britain.
B.C. The island has been visited by pilgrims since the 2nd century and has been a haven for pirates and fishermen over the years.
“Gareth and his family have been there since 2007 and know the island and the challenges and benefits of living on Enlli intimately,” said Sian Stacey, chief officer of the trust. he told the BBC.
“We are looking for a family or couple with farming experience,” a spokesman for the Bardsey Island Trust said. “Ideally, there will be Gaelic speakers, which is an important part of the island’s everyday language and culture.
“The most important thing for new tenants is to be part of the community, to be part of life on the island. The trust has a five-year conservation plan and there will be plenty of support for tenants.”
In 2023, Ynys Enlli became the first International Dark Sky Reserve in Europe, recognizing it as having the best night sky in the world.
It joins 16 other locations described as the most remote and darkest places on Earth.
