Elliðaey, a small, uninhabited island south of Iceland, holds a unique charm. Situated at the northeastern tip of the Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands) archipelago – a cluster of 15 to 18 islands and assorted rocks – Elliðaey boasts a size of 110 acres (0.45 square kilometers), making it the third-largest in the group.
The Allure of the Loneliest House
Elliðaey’s most striking feature is undoubtedly the solitary house perched atop a massive rock jutting out towards the ocean. This structure, often dubbed the “world’s loneliest house” on social media, is actually a hunting lodge built in 1953 by the Elliðaey Hunting Association.
Historian Magnús Þórhallsson sheds light on the island’s past: “While the exact details are unclear, evidence suggests Elliðaey was used for sheep grazing in the past. This might explain the possibility of a small, temporary population connected to that activity.”
A Protected Paradise
Despite its seemingly isolated nature, Elliðaey is officially a protected area overseen by the Icelandic government. “Independent access to the island via boat appears to be legal,” notes environmental lawyer Björg Matthíasdóttir, “but due to the cold, rocky waters and potential legal complexities, it’s highly advisable to seek permission from local authorities or join a guided tour.” Thankfully, several tour companies operating in the Vestmannaeyjar Peninsula offer day trips to Elliðaey, allowing visitors to experience this enigmatic island firsthand.
