The community-owned Knoydart peninsula is set to offer its growing number of visitors a much wider range of accommodation following construction of a new bunkhouse and guest house.

The Old Byre self catering accommodation and Bramble Cottage guest house are being set up with assistance from Lochaber Enterprise and the European-funded HIE Standards programme, which is designed to help accommodation providers invest in upgrading their premises.

Kevin Butcher received a £48,700 package to create high quality self-catering accommodation by renovating a byre in the village of Inverie, and construction has recently been completed.

The Old Byre will have ten bed spaces in five double bedrooms, a communal kitchen and drying room.  The new business will create one full-time and two part-time jobs.

Also in Inverie, Cara Gray is constructing a new three-bedroom guest house with help from a grant of £65,000 from Lochaber Enterprise. 

Originally from Ayrshire, Ms Gray recognised Knoydart's potential as a niche holiday destination during her regular visits to the area over the years.  She will draw on 20 years' experience in the travel industry to offer high quality service and accommodation.  When it opens in November, she plans to offer guests dinner, bed and breakfast and a packed lunch service as required, as well as organising package holidays on the island.

Angela Williams, Knoydart Foundation development officer said:  "Kevin and Cara have broadened the range of accommodation available on Knoydart and hopefully will make it an even more attractive place to come and visit."

Charlotte Wright, acting chief executive for Lochaber Enterprise, said:  "The Knoydart Foundation has been proactive in supporting economic development on the peninsula by providing leases where appropriate and by their support.  Lochaber Enterprise's role complements this by offering financial support and business advice to all types and sizes of new ventures."