World
February 27, 2025 07:30
great blasket island, irish west coast - An Irish-American newlywed couple embarks on a six-month adventure to an uninhabited island near the Irish west coast for their dream job.
Irish-American Couple's Adventure on Great Blasket Island
James Hayes and his American wife, Camille Rosenfeld, have been selected to live on the remote Great Blasket Island between April 1 and September 30. Their task involves maintaining four holiday cottages and serving coffee to day-trippers.
The island offers a serene escape where one can wake up on a windy hill overlooking the ocean, hearing seagulls in the distance and spotting seals on the beach. This tranquility appeals to many.
Over the years, the island's owner received tens of thousands of applications for the caretaker position. To streamline the process, applications are now limited to 300 responses. The holiday cottages stand beside stone ruins of what used to be a village until the 1950s. The Irish government eventually evacuated the residents due to its desolation. The current owner, Billy O'Connor's grandfather, purchased the island in the 1980s. Billy's wife ultimately chose Camille and James for the role.
"I think we will enjoy the sunsets," said 26-year-old Camille to The Guardian. "Stargazing without light pollution, relaxing with a book by candlelight." Camille, a business management graduate, has never been to Great Blasket, while her architect husband, who grew up in London, has visited only once.
The island's weather is challenging, with more rain than sun being the norm. Sudden weather changes bring howling winds, heavy rain, and powerful waves to the white sandy beach. Drinking water, drawn from a spring, must be boiled before consumption. The island's power supply relies on a small wind turbine, and all supplies are delivered by boat.
James and Camille will begin their assignment within a month. "April is one of the most magical times to visit Great Blasket. The beach is black with thousands of seals," O'Connor shared. However, the noisy seals and waterfowl at night can be unsettling, as noted by previous caretakers.
Despite the challenges, James and Camille are undeterred. "We won't have the responsibilities of our jobs or daily life. Great Blasket offers a chance to live more simply."