This little house has gained worldwide recognition as the loneliest dwelling on earth, and many rumors and theories are circulating regarding its existence. However, what is the actual history and reality of this isolated abode?
Chances are, you’ve stumbled upon popular photos of the quaint house situated on the isolated Elliðaey Island in Southern Iceland. It’s commonly referred to as the “dream home for introverts” or the “most solitary house on the planet”. This is not without good cause.
Living life on the edge. Credit for the captivating image goes to @hOrdur. Numerous theories about the house’s owner and history have emerged over the years. Among them, some rumors suggest that a billionaire built it as a safe haven in case of a zombie apocalypse. Conversely, others have claimed that the house doesn’t exist and is merely the result of a clever Photoshop user’s handiwork. Some even thought it belonged to Iceland’s famous singer, Björk. Although the Icelandic prime minister once expressed that Björk could live rent-free on a different island, she has no affiliation with Elliðaey.
However, these speculations are far from the truth behind this petite house.
Do you know who owns this house? Back in the 18th century, Elliðaey Island was home to five families who lived in humble huts. They relied on fishing and raising cattle on the green fields of the island. Fast forward to the 1930s and all the families had moved out, leaving behind only puffins and seals as the local inhabitants.
Do you ever wonder where everyone has gone? You might be surprised to hear that an island called Elliðaey was completely abandoned for two decades until the Elliðaey Hunting Association constructed a hunting lodge in 1953. This same lodge is the one that you might have seen in those viral images of the island that have been circulating on social media. While the association does hunt puffins, it seems that there hasn’t been any hunting activity happening on Elliðaey in the recent past. So, if you’re looking for a quiet and secluded spot, Elliðaey might just be the place for you!
The island of Elliðaey is now abandoned and can only be reached by boat, provided the weather conditions are favorable. The surrounding Icelandic waters can be dangerous with temperatures dropping as low as 33 degrees Fahrenheit (0.6°C). As there are no stairs leading to the house, visitors must climb the steep cliffs of the island. When the house was constructed, all materials and equipment were manually carried up to the site. Despite its remote location, the house is still in use and boasts a sauna on the island.
Back in 2017, a YouTube channel posted a video showcasing their trip to Elliðaey island, including a tour of the lodge’s interior. Despite claims that the lodge lacked electricity or indoor plumbing, the video revealed multiple electrical wiring and sockets. It is possible that the lodge had no power at one point but has since been updated. Contrary to popular belief, the island is not owned by a billionaire or Björk and appears to primarily serve as a tourist destination. According to an article in The Mirror, tour companies offer trips to the island, giving people the chance to see the world’s loneliest house in person.
