Elliðaey Vestmannaeyjar
An uninhabited island in Iceland's Vestmannaeyjar archipelago, famed for its solitary white cabin and vast puffin colonies.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Puffins are most active
Elliðaey Vestmannaeyjar
Best Time
Puffins are most active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An uninhabited island in Iceland's Vestmannaeyjar archipelago, famed for its solitary white cabin and vast puffin colonies.
"The 'loneliest house' on Elliðaey offers a profound sense of solitude amidst breathtaking natural beauty."
Book Boat Charters Early
Private boat tours are the only way to reach Elliðaey. Book well in advance, especially for summer visits.
Respect Puffins' Space
Observe puffins from a distance; do not disturb their nests or chicks. They are the island's main residents!
Quick Facts
Rating
4.7 · 118 reviews
Type
Natural Feature
Address
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Loneliest House
Elliðaey Island
The iconic white cabin, a hunting lodge, stands as a symbol of solitude amidst dramatic cliffs and the vast ocean.
Puffin Paradise
Elliðaey Island cliffs
Witness vast colonies of puffins nesting on the island's sheer cliffs during the summer months.
Dramatic Coastal Scenery
Elliðaey Island
Experience breathtaking views of rugged cliffs, the wild Atlantic Ocean, and the surrounding Vestmannaeyjar archipelago.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Elliðaey: Plan Your Journey
Respecting the Wildlife and Environment
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Boat Charters Early
Private boat tours are the only way to reach Elliðaey. Book well in advance, especially for summer visits.
Respect Puffins' Space
Observe puffins from a distance; do not disturb their nests or chicks. They are the island's main residents!
Wear Sturdy Footwear
The terrain can be uneven and slippery. Good hiking shoes are essential for exploring the island safely. :athletic_shoe:
Pack for All Weather
Icelandic weather is unpredictable. Bring layers, waterproofs, and wind protection, even in summer. ☁️
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Boat Charters Early
Private boat tours are the only way to reach Elliðaey. Book well in advance, especially for summer visits.
Respect Puffins' Space
Observe puffins from a distance; do not disturb their nests or chicks. They are the island's main residents!
Wear Sturdy Footwear
The terrain can be uneven and slippery. Good hiking shoes are essential for exploring the island safely. :athletic_shoe:
Pack for All Weather
Icelandic weather is unpredictable. Bring layers, waterproofs, and wind protection, even in summer. ☁️
No Facilities on Island
Elliðaey is uninhabited. Bring all your own food, water, and anything else you might need. :water_wave:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by Elliðaey's dramatic scenery, the iconic 'loneliest house,' and the incredible abundance of puffins. The sense of isolation and tranquility is a major draw for many. Some express curiosity about the history and survival of past inhabitants, while others appreciate the raw, untouched nature of the island.
"Beautiful! The only building is a lodge used by Puffin hunters (boo 👎). Once 5 families lived on this island but the last family left in the 1930s."
M
"Cool but how did they end up there? How did they survive? How do they get food? I have so many question"
Iyaz Rozaimi
"Ya know, for an island I've never been on...and a country I've never been to, for that matter...I'll give it 5 stars. Why, you ask? Simple really. This rock, separated by a bit more than a gentle swim, is a destination for those who want to feel distant from others, yet closer to nature. That such a place has the power to draw people from all corners of the planet seeking the same thing, deserves no less then 5 stars. ...also, I think it'd be cool to pee off the side of it....is that just me?"
Andrew Melton
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Elliðaey is part of the Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands) archipelago. You'll need to take a ferry or flight from mainland Iceland to Heimaey, the largest island. From Heimaey, private boat charters are the only way to reach Elliðaey. There are no regular public tours to the island itself.
No, visiting Elliðaey requires a boat trip. It's recommended to arrange a private charter from Heimaey, as there are no scheduled public transport options to the island.
While there aren't many dedicated tours to Elliðaey, some boat operators in the Westman Islands may offer trips that include a stop at the island. It's best to contact local tour providers in Heimaey directly to inquire.
The best way to see the puffins is by taking a boat trip around Elliðaey during their nesting season (typically May to August). The boat will get you close enough to observe the large colonies on the cliffs. 
Yes, you can hike on Elliðaey once you arrive by boat. The terrain is rugged and can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is essential. The main attraction is the 'loneliest house' and the puffin colonies.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no entrance fees or tickets required to visit Elliðaey itself, as it's an uninhabited island. However, you will need to pay for a boat charter to get there.
Elliðaey is an uninhabited island and is accessible year-round, weather permitting. The 'loneliest house' is a hunting lodge and is typically used during the puffin hunting season.
The 'loneliest house' is a private hunting lodge belonging to the Elliðaey Hunting Association and is not open to the public for entry or overnight stays. You can view it from the outside.
The puffin season on Elliðaey is generally from May to August. During this time, the island is teeming with hundreds of thousands of puffins.
No, Elliðaey is uninhabited and there are no facilities for overnight stays. The house is a hunting lodge and not available for public accommodation.
📸 📸 Photography
Elliðaey offers incredible photographic opportunities, including the iconic 'loneliest house' against dramatic backdrops, vast puffin colonies, and stunning coastal landscapes.
A telephoto lens is highly recommended for capturing puffins from a distance. A wide-angle lens is great for the dramatic landscapes and the solitary house. A drone can offer unique aerial perspectives, but check local regulations.
While not explicitly prohibited, it's always best to check current regulations regarding drone usage in protected natural areas in Iceland. Be mindful of wildlife and other visitors.
The 'golden hour' around sunrise and sunset provides beautiful, soft light for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh, but it's ideal for observing puffin activity.
There are no specific restrictions on photography, but always be respectful of the wildlife and the natural environment. Avoid using flash photography directly at puffins.
Social
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