North Arran has taken top spot in a Which survey which asked members to vote for their favourite National Scenic Areas (NSAs) in Scotland.
Almost 5,000 members rated their experiences of Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) in England, Wales and Northern Ireland and NSAs in Scotland.
Locations were marked on eight criteria including peace and quiet, opportunities for wildlife spotting, visitor services, food and drink, scenery, accommodation and attractions.
Respondents said North Arran felt like “another world”, rating its “stunning” scenery five stars, with visitors able to explore “breathtaking” landscapes from coastal areas to mountains, including the island’s highest peak Goatfell.
It scored four stars for walks, peace and quiet, quality of accommodation and opportunities for wildlife spotting, with the island playing host to a wide range of animals from eagles to deer and seals.
The Isles of Scilly and the Northumberland Coast tied in first place among AONBs, with area scores of 89 per cent, while in Scotland, North Arran topped the tables with an area score of 88 per cent.
Rory Boland, editor of Which? Travel said: “The UK is blessed with a fantastic choice of unspoilt natural landscapes and this year’s survey shines a light on some of the most beautiful locations these isles have to offer.
“Whether you want to explore historical sites, spot wildlife in their natural habitats or get active in nature, there’s a unique scenic area on your doorstep waiting to be explored.”
North Arran was selected among 40 NSAs in Scotland with NSAs being defined as places with “outstanding scenic value in a national context”.
Following closely behind North Arran, and in shared second place, was Shetland and Wester Ross which both scored 87 per cent.
An aerial view of Arran’s coast and mountains in the north west of the island. No_B44NArran01_23_National_Scenic_Area