Holiday-makers to Kintyre might wonder if they've taken the wrong road and ended up in Wild West America - they might not see any totem poles but there are definitely a few wigwams around!

Owners of the Machrihanish Caravan and Camping Park have recently taken delivery of two wigwams to offer travellers an alternative form of accommodation.

Steven and Jacquie Boyles - who bought the site last year - hope that their wigwams will be attractive to a range of visitors, especially families, surfers, bikers, walkers, etc who enjoy camping type accommodation but do not want to carry a tent.

The couple's £12,600 project is being supported by Argyll and the Islands Enterprise (AIE), with a grant totalling £4,400.  This includes money from the European-funded HIE-Activity programme, which is aimed directly at developing and promoting leisure activities throughout the Highlands and Islands.

As well as the purchase, and furniture and fittings for the wigwams, Steven and Jacquie are also upgrading an existing unit on the site for use as a cookhouse for wigwam customers.

Steven Boyles said: "We feel that the wigwams will offer a refreshing alternative and unique holiday experience for our visitors.  They are great value and can be hired on a nightly basis and provide warm and spacious accommodation. 

"We really want people to enjoy the thrill of camping with the benefit of a few added home comforts."

Chief executive of AIE, Ken Abernethy said: "The availability of a wide range of accommodation, from luxurious to budget, is essential if we want to attract more and more visitors to the region.

"At AIE, we think the addition of wigwams at the Machrihanish Caravan and Camping Park will provide tourists with a unique holiday experience."