About Our Family
First as a couple, then eventually a family of 5, we’ve loved visiting Scotland. We’ve had short breaks in hotels, and self-catering holidays in cottages, chalets and cabins. We’ve also camped (in April – it was wet!) and even spent a week in a castle! We’ve always had a friendly welcome and love the peace, slower pace of life, and scenery. For a few years we stayed in and around Dumfries & Galloway, and particularly near Castle Douglas. On one visit, during a walk to Threave Castle, we decided as a family that if the opportunity arose we’d love to have a ‘home from home’ in the area.
We came to Barend and really liked the lodges and surrounding countryside. So when 22 Barend became available we booked a short break in the lodge to check it out, then jumped at the chance to own it!
Over the years we’ve stayed in or near Ayr, Kintyre, Inveraray, Fort William, Arisaig, Strathpeffer, Inverness, Pitlochry, Perth, Edinburgh, Haddington, Kelso, Glasgow, Biggar, Castle Douglas and Newton Stewart. While on holiday we’ve also travelled to other places; like John o’ Groats! We obviously have favourites that we like to return to, but there are also many more places we plan to visit on future trips.
Serenity
The lodge, “Serenity”, is a Scandinavian style full timber construction log cabin built on solid foundations. It’s over 30 years old and was formerly called “Milvus Lodge” (Milvus is a genus of medium-sized birds of prey).
The 2 balconies – a larger one on the ground floor and smaller one upstairs – have beautiful views across the loch. We chose the name “Serenity” as the area is so peaceful and full of wildlife, a real haven to unwind in. We enjoy sitting on a balcony and relaxing with a cuppa ☕️
Apart from the views over the loch, we like that there’s lots of green space around the lodge. On the left (when looking at the front door) is a small coppice of trees, giving some extra greenery and privacy on that side. An extra window in the lounge area floods the room with light.
We’re continually looking to improve the fixtures, fittings and contents of the lodge. Some are our preference and some in response to feedback from guests; so after you stay please send us your ideas or suggestions!
Here’s what the lodge used to look like…
…and how it looked as “Milvus Lodge” when we bought it.
Look out for more pictures as we make changes.
There are more photos in and around the lodge in the Gallery.
Barend Holiday Lodges
Barend Holiday Lodges has around 80 permanent lodges and other accommodation. In most cases the lodges are individually owned and managed from the site reception. Some owners manage their own bookings and some live in their lodge. If you have any questions before your stay, or you’d like to see more information about the site here, please get in touch.
