Home / Lifestyle / Tiny Island Seeks Nature-Lovers to Join Sheep and Cattle Community
Tiny Island Seeks Nature-Lovers to Join Sheep and Cattle Community
8 Oct
Summary
- Ynys Enlli, also known as Bardsey Island, has a year-round population of just 3 people
- It became Europe's first International Dark Sky Sanctuary in 2023
- The island's trust is looking for one adventurous family or couple to move there in 2026
Ynys Enlli, a small island off the coast of Gwynedd's Llŷn Peninsula, is currently home to just 3 year-round residents. However, this is set to change in 2026, as the Bardsey Island Trust is now seeking one adventurous family or couple to join the island's unique community.
Ynys Enlli, also known as Bardsey Island, is a wind-swept, sea-sprayed haven that boasts more sheep than humans. In 2023, it became the first International Dark Sky Sanctuary in Europe, ensuring its unspoiled view of the night sky is protected for current and future generations.
The successful applicant will be responsible for managing the island's 200 sheep and 25 Welsh Black cattle, working alongside the current tenant farmer, Gareth Roberts, who has lived on Enlli since 2007. The trust's chief officer, Sian Stacey, who herself lived on the island for 3 years, described it as "an amazing place to be" and assured that the new arrivals will be mentored by the experienced Mr. Roberts.
Measuring just 440 acres, Ynys Enlli is a national nature reserve and a site of special scientific interest, offering a truly off-grid living experience. With its rich history as one of the holiest places in Britain during the Middle Ages, the island is now poised to welcome its newest caretakers, who will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the island's unique natural and cultural heritage.
