One of Scotland's most stunning landmarks is to close during the summer so the charity that looks after it can complete vital infrastructure upgrades.
The National Trust of Scotland (NTS) said it will start work on the Isle of Staffa and the famous Fingal Cave this summer.
The current visitor infrastructure on Staffa, which has been in the care of the National Trust for Scotland since 1986 and is popular with tourists, is in need of urgent improvement and repair due to rising visitor numbers over the past few years.
A spokesperson for NTS said: "The high number of visitors to the top of the island has caused erosion, which requires new path works.
"As the charity which protects and cares for Staffa, the National Trust for Scotland is seeking to improve the access infrastructure.
"We’ve been able to take account of the island’s multiple designations and special features to come up with plans that will ensure that visitors have an enjoyable, memorable and safe experience while continuing to protect everything that makes Staffa special.
"We’ll be improving the landing area, stairs and paths."
The charity said it will start work in mid-August 2022 – after the seabird breeding season, with work taking place throughout the autumn (weather permitting).
During this time, they won’t be able to have visitors on the island.
There will be a short pause in work over December 2022 and January 2023, before restarting in early 2023. Again, while contractors are on island, it will not be possible to land on Staffa.
The aim is to have as much of the island accessible in spring 2023 as possible.
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