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Swnt Enlli (the Bardsey Sound) is approximately
two miles wide and separates Ynys Enlli (Enlli) from the western tip
of Llŷn. This is one of the most treacherous stretches of water
around the UK, with the tide running at up to 10 knots - Ynys Enlli
means "island of the tides".
Enlli is about 2 miles long by half a mile wide
(at it's widest point!). It has a "mountain" (Mynydd Enlli),
lighthouse, beach and small harbour where the boats that bring
visitors to the islands can moor at high tide. There are a handful
of houses and outbuildings centred around what is left of the
ancient monastery (stone from the monastery was used to help build
some of the houses). A more recent chapel lies nearby at the foot of
Mynydd Enlli. There is a small shop and basic toilet facilities in
the centre of this "village".
There is no better place to get away from modern
life - Enlli has no electricity, and water is gathered from springs
on the hillside. However this is part of what attracts visitors
here, as the island has for hundreds of years. Pilgrims have
travelled to Enlli for centuries, and at one time, three journeys to
the island equalled one to Rome. The island is said to be the burial
place of 20,000 saints.
Enlli is important for wildlife, especially birds
and there is an observatory on the island.
The Ymddiriedolaeth Ynys Enlli (Bardsey Island
Trust) bought the island in 1979 and now manages it by stationing a
couple of households on the island on a permanent basis. The Trust's
office is located within Plas Glyn-y-Weddw in Llanbedrog. Trips to
the island run mainly from Porth Meudwy near
Aberdaron.
Gallery (click for a
larger image):
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