The Faroe Islands will close for maintenance, with members of the public shut out of its biggest attractions - but that doesn't mean you won't be able to visit at all.
For the past five years the Danish self-governing archipelago has shut down for two days once a year to bring its tourist spots back up to shape.
In 2023, 100 volunteers will be brought onto the 18 volcanic islands to roll up their sleeves and help preserve the natural environment.
From 20 to 22 April the lucky bunch allowed onto the Faroes will help maintain Slættaratindur, the Islands’ highest mountain.
Two days of maintenance work on the path leading up the mountain will be required, creating alternative and safer routes, together with wayfinding posts and repairing paths.
Volunteers will work alongside Faroe Islanders to help pave the way for a sustainable future.
At the end of the project, all volunteers will enjoy a celebratory evening, with a meal of typical Faroese food and local beer, and a traditional folk dance.
Registration opens at 11am on Tuesday, November 15 for just 24 hours, so you need to be quick off the mark.
In return for their work, those chosen will be offered free accommodation, food and transport on the islands over the three-night visit.
They will, however, need to cover their own travel costs to the islands - although a discount code to put towards flights by national airline Atlantic Airways will be provided.
The cost is likely to be 2,500 DKK from Copenhagen Airport, which is the equivalent of around £300, or 2,000 DKK from Edinburgh.
Previous Closed for Maintenance projects have seen high numbers of volunteers offer their time, with thousands of applications from people worldwide.
Those who run the project hope it helps to create a new and wider understanding of what it is like to live year-round on small islands in the wild North Atlantic – it’s a harsh environment, with more sheep than people.
The Faroes receive 110,000 visitors a year, which represents 10% growth over recent years.
While this isn't a huge increase, it's enough to cause noticeable wear and tear to well-visited tourist spots.
The Faroese hope that their annual project will also inspire other countries to set up their own Maintenance Crews, encouraging visitors to help to redress the impact of tourism worldwide.
Says Jóhan Pauli Helgason, head of development at Visit Faroe Islands, said: "The Closed for Maintenance initiative is a true example of how tourism can contribute to the regenerative development of a destination.
"People, both locals and international visitors are eager to make a difference and we have been amazed by how much can be achieved over two full days of work when everybody has the same goal.
"We believe that other destinations can benefit hugely from initiatives such as Closed for Maintenance."
One hundred people who sign up will be chosen randomly to take part and will be notified by email in January.
Walking boots are a must, as is a “can do” attitude, but there is no requirement for any particular skills.
To sign up, click here.
