Free Admission

Enjoy the best of Dumfries & Galloway without spending a penny, from nature reserves to historic public landmarks.

Trying the Barend Sauna at the Sea for the First Time

22 Barend

We tried Barend’s “Sauna at the Sea” for the first time in April. We had a private session and, as there were only 2 of us, we could stretch out on the benches and relax while looking out to the Solway Firth.

Private sauna sessions are included free for Serenity 22 guests.

The traditional wood-fired log sauna on the Barend estate, free for Serenity 22 guests.

Sauna at the Sea: Quick Info

  • Distance from Serenity (22 Barend): ~200 metres, about 4 mins walk
  • Booking: Complimentary private sessions. Booking link sent with your confirmation email, or call reception 01387 780 663.
  • Session Length: 55 mins
  • What to bring: Towel, swimwear, a cool drink, flip flops (optional but useful on the decking)
  • Cold tubs: Available outside for contrast bathing between sauna sessions
  • Minimum Age: 14 (must have an over 18 with them); 16 is the minimum unaccompanied age

I’m not usually a big fan of saunas, as I don’t like feeling too hot 😂 but I wanted to try it out. I found that 10-minute periods with a few minutes cooling off outside between each one worked well for me. It was very pleasant to sit outside for a few minutes and feel the cool breeze before returning to the warmth of the sauna.

If you’re feeling brave, you can take a plunge into the cold tubs. However, if you’re less brave (like me!), you can splash your face and hands and have some cool water to drink.

We thought about combining the sauna with swimming beforehand, but the timings didn’t quite work out on this visit. I think this would feel really nice; maybe next time! We’ll also take a chilled drink next time to enjoy whilst relaxing outside between sauna sessions.

We’ll definitely book it again, and next time we’ll get the swim session timing right too.

Sauna access is free for every Serenity 22 guest – no extra cost, just book your slot: Check Availability

To see more information about the Sauna and how to book your free session, see: Free Sauna Access for Serenity Guests

Tips for Planning Your Sauna Session

  • Bring swimwear and towels
  • Lockers are available (refundable £1 fee)
  • Take a cool drink to enjoy outside the sauna
  • Optionally bring flip flops/sliders
  • Combine with Free swimming pool access – ask reception about timing your sessions back to back
A wide, quiet sandy beach shoreline along the circular coastal route section of the Mersehead trail.

Barn Owls, Barnacle Geese & Barefoot on the Beach at RSPB Mersehead

22 Barend

I’m not really sure why, but for some reason we only visited this RSPB reserve for the first time this spring, even though it is literally a few minutes drive from the Lodge.  It’s amazing – I can’t believe we haven’t been before! The whole area is beautiful, and the wildlife is abundant. The visitor centre is small but very well thought out and has everything you need.  It was a really good afternoon out. 

A flat walking path goes through open wetlands and wild grass fields at RSPB Mersehead reserve.
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The Needle's Eye natural rock arch near Sandyhills Beach on the Solway Coast, accessible at low tide

Sandyhills Beach on the Solway Firth

22 Barend

The nearest beach, Sandyhills, is only a short 10 to 15 mins walk from the lodge along a quiet road.

It’s a large sandy beach, warmed by the Gulf Stream, so popular for paddling and exploring rock pools. It’s great for walking at low tide.

⚠️ The tide can move very quickly so we recommend you check the tide times.

To get there, turn left from Barend Holiday Lodges and stay on that road to the ‘T’ junction. Cross the road into the car park, then access the beach to the left of Sandyhills Bay Holiday Park.

Sandyhills Beach, looking across the bay
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Golf Club and Ball

Free Round of Golf

22 Barend
Golf Club and Ball

When you book Serenity 22 Barend through this site/Barend Holiday Lodges you can have a free round of golf at Craigieknowes Golf Club.

4 miles W ~9 min drive DG5 4LF

Craigieknowes is just 3 miles from Kippford, alongside a stretch of beautiful coastline known as the Scottish Riviera. It has a challenging 9 hole par 3 course along with a “Tee” room for refreshments after (or instead! 😉).

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