A survey of Scotland's top beaches has revealed that the country's most beautiful beach is also one of its strangest.

St Ninian's Isle in Shetland is linked to the mainland by the UK's largest active tombolo, or sand bar, and it is this unspoilt strip of sand that came out top in Keep Scotland Beautiful's poll of the nation's beaches - receiving a third of all votes cast and an average rating of four out of five.

Tombolos are unusual land formations created by waves refracting as they near the coastline, depositing sand in an arc formation which eventually links two separate landmasses. The 500m-long St Ninian tombolo that links the isle to Shetland remains above sea level, except at extremely high tides, and is accessible to walkers all year round.

Coldingham Bay in the Borders, which only achieved Blue Flag status earlier this year, was ranked the country's second favourite beach and another Shetland beach, the Sands of Breckon, took third spot.

"It is clear that the Shetland beaches have this year captured the hearts of the Scottish beach-goers and congratulations should be offered to the local communities and Shetland Islands Council who both help to maintain these beaches," said Donna Hegarty, Keep Scotland Beautiful Programmes Manager.

“I am particularly delighted that Coldingham Bay in the Scottish Borders has been rated so highly, because it was a new Blue Flag winner this year, and the public reviews prove that it really is one of our top award beaches."

Shetland Islands Council's environment spokesperson Councillor Jim Henry said: “I am delighted that not one, but two, of Shetland’s beaches have been voted among the top three award winning beaches in Scotland.  It is recognition of the hard work put in by the local communities to keep the beaches in pristine condition, and a reflection of the outstanding natural beauty here in the Shetland Islands”.

Neil Mackay of Scottish Borders Council said: "I am delighted that the Bay achieved the Blue Flag Award earlier in the year and that the investment managing Coldingham Bay this year has certainly been worth it as both the local community and tourists have clearly enjoyed the clean beach environment and facilities on offer at Coldingham."

You can review a beach to be considered for next year's award at Keep Scotland Beautiful's website.