Walking Distance

Fantastic local highlights, beaches, and eateries you can reach on foot directly from the lodge door.

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
The Needle's Eye natural rock arch near Sandyhills Beach on the Solway Coast, accessible at low tide

Portling Bay Coastal Loop

22 Barend

A 5.6km walk from Serenity 22, via Sandyhills Beach and the Needle’s Eye

Quick info:

  • Start: Serenity 22 Barend – 10 min walk to Sandyhills Beach
  • Distance: 5.6km
  • Time: 1.5 – 2 hours
  • Difficulty: Moderate – one steep descent/climb, undulating coastal path
  • Terrain: Sandy beach, rocky shore (tide dependent), cliff-top path, quiet road
  • Tide dependent: Yes – the beach section between Sandyhills and Portling Bay ⚠️ is submerged at high tide ⚠️
  • Dogs: Welcome – keep on lead in some sections; stiles and gates present
  • Parking: Limited at Sandyhills (30 mins free or £6/day) – best started from the lodge

One of the best walks from Serenity’s front door, the Portling Bay Coastal Loop takes you along the Solway shoreline, through a natural rock arch, and back along a cliff-top path with views across to the Lake District on a clear day. At 5.6km it’s a comfortable morning or afternoon out – though the final descent back into Sandyhills will remind you it’s not entirely flat.

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Person fishing on a loch

Gone Fishing! near Barend, Dalbeattie

22 Barend
Person fishing on a loch

Barend Loch, nestled peacefully within the tranquil surroundings of the lodges, provides an idyllic setting for fishing.

Just 100 metres away, only a 4 minute walk!

Guests at Serenity don’t need a permit, and can enjoy fishing right on the loch opposite the lodge (however please only use barbless hooks). Legend has it that a monster 14lb carp was even caught here!

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A waterfall with 3 distinct water streams

Mares Braids / Back Burn Waterfall Sandyhills

22 Barend

Distance from the lodge:
2 miles E ~5 min drive DG5 4PA

Mares Braids Waterfall, also known as Back Burn (sometimes Backburn) Waterfall, is just a short drive from Serenity 22 Barend, by the A710 heading E from Sandyhills. It’s near the Southwick Coastal Reserve and RSPB Mersehead on the Solway Coast.

⚠️ This walk is only accessible when the tide is out so you must check the tide times before going. The tides near Sandyhills move very quickly, and people have been trapped by them. ⚠️

A waterfall with 3 distinct water streams
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Breakfast outside on a picnic bench overlooking a wild landscape

Bainloch Deer Park Visitor Centre & Bistro

22 Barend

Bainloch Deer Park Visitor Centre & Bistro is right next door to Barend, and so it’s very convenient for a late breakfast, lunch or afternoon treat.

Parking spaces are plentiful and the large cafe has indoor and outdoor seating. We went in the afternoon and enjoyed drinks and cakes sitting out on a picnic bench on the terrace. The prices seem reasonable, and there’s a good selection of cakes and snacks. The kids particularly enjoyed their ice cream milkshakes. There’s table service and the staff are all very friendly and efficient. On our first visit we spent an hour or so there, but we’ve been back a few times since…

Sculpture of a Stag at Bainloch Deer Park Visitor Centre & Bistro
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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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