Just an hour away from Washington, DC, from the hustle and bustle of the beltway, there’s Loudoun County. There, you encounter rolling hills, multimillion dollar farms with pedigreed horses, and innovative wineries. There’s a property in the middle of it all that embodies that region, that is Salamander Resort and Spa. We recently spent 24 hours at this idyllic location and here’s all about our escape:
The Vibe
As you walk into the property, you are taken by the timeless luxury. It’s ingrained in every detail of Salamander Resort and Spa with the warm wood furnishings and equine themed sculptures. The founder and CEO of Salamander Resort, Sheila C. Johnson is a well-known figure in DC as the cofounder of BET and part owner of local sport teams such as the Washington Capitals, Washington Wizards, and Washington Mystics. From what we heard from the staff, she is very personally involved in every detail of the property. There are very few luxury properties where the vision comes from a single figure, and it’s interesting to see her influences throughout the resort.
The Location
Located in Middleburg, Virginia, Salamander Resort and Spa is an hours drive from Washington, DC. and thirty minute drive from Dulles Airport. The area is also very well known for Virginia Wines as there are many great wineries nearby such as one of my favorites, Greenhill Wine. For more Loudoun County wines, check out my Virginia Wine picks. Middleburg has deep equine roots and the property perpetuates the tradition with in-house stables where guests can go for a horse rides or simply admire the beautifully pedigreed horses.
The Rooms
The equine theme is present in every facet of the hotel, to include the rooms. The linens have horse stirrup accents and the fireplace gives it a warm cozy feel. The rooms have a large, comfortable bed and tub/shower combination showers. Although there’s plenty to do at the resort, it’s very tempting to stay in the room and just lounge! We had a room facing the rear of the property where you can admire the sprawling land that encopasses the resort. Tip: make sure to wake up early as you can witness the cotton candy colors of the sunrise from your room.
The Spa
During our stay at the Salamander Resort and Spa, I treated myself to a massage a their spa. Tip: if you are in the local area, the resort offers local discounts. You can make a whole day of their spa experience as there is a pool exclusively for Spa guests, indoor whirlpools, saunas, and a luxurious relaxation room. Even if you’re not staying in the resort, a spa experience is definitely a must if you’re in the area.
The Food
I had the opportunity to try Harriman’s Grill, the resort’s fine dining restaurant for dinner to sample their spring menu. I started the dinner with an earthy grilled beet salad and continued with the whole roasted branzino, which was delicious. However, the highlight of the meal was the dessert: the Irish cream bread pudding. The deliciously decadent warm bread pudding against the cinnamon bun ice cream immediately became a favorite. Totally worth the hour drive! The best part came at the end when our group went to the bonfire outside the restaurant for s’mores and digestifs. There are several firepits around the property, this is a definite must do if you’re staying at the Salamander Resort!
Salamander Resort and Spa: The Verdict
If you’re looking for a luxurious getaway close to DC, the Salamander Resort and Spa is the place for you. I’m trying to look for points for improvement to be objective but sorry, can’t come up with any. Not only does the resort provide great amenities, it is laced with impeccable service. The staff knows guests by name and ensure that your desires are met. Whether you’re an hour away or flying in for the experience, you will be satisfied.
Salamander Resort and Spa, 500 N Pendleton St, Middleburg, VA, Website
Disclaimer: I was hosted by Salamander Resort and Spa for this experience, however, opinions are my own. Spa experience was not sponsored and I have experienced the resort on my own accord in the past.
I’ve been dying to get here!
We should go together this summer!
This sounds amazing! I loved all the pictures and the experience overall sounds confortable, top level and relaxing. My favorite part was the spa and it sounded amazing the indoor whirlpools, saunas, and a luxurious relaxation room! I want to go!
xx Pilar
http://www.thelifestylehunter.com
The spa is amazing. Wish I could go every week!
I was just in DC and then did a girls weekend an hour away. We decided to make it an annual event so I think this wonderful place needs to be the location of our next get together. Thanks for the info!
This is the perfect place for a ladies trip!
Salamander is definitely on my list to visit. I love that they bring the horse vibe into the room decor and the rest of the property. Bread pudding and time around the fire pit sound so tempting.
You guys should visit soon, just a short drive!
Wow, this sounds amazing! I wish I’d known about it when our son went to college at Georgetown!
You can always return! Great things going on in the region.
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