Some places cannot be described; they need to be experienced. It is with this in mind that we will try to do justice to the Salamander Resort, in Middleburg, Virginia, a microcosm of all that is good and great in the world.
The pianist’s fingers are jumping, the atmosphere is buzzing and the place oozes cool charm: first impressions are everything.
Or are they? The pianist is, in fact, a guest of the hotel. It is perhaps the hallmark of Salamander Resort: an understated, refined luxury, that defines it.
The resort is designed as a large estate and guests are invited to treat the place as if it were their own home. Every room has its own distinct character, yet all almost seamlessly merge, emulating the feel of a grand estate. The design of Sheila Johnson, she has certainly left her idiosyncratic mark on the property.
The lobby, with its fantastically high ceilings, is painted in a distinct Salamander Blue (specifically chosen for the resort) and it is here one first encounters the quirky features throughout: from the fabulous pineapple lamps to the equestrian theme that subtly permeates the entire resort, every corner exposes a unique element. The library, with its beautiful wood-paneling throughout, holds some of Ms. Johnson’s personal collection of antique books. Chess sets, an enviable classics book collection, the roaring fire and an exceptional glass of local Virginian wine create a sophisticated ambiance of laissez-faire luxury on the evenings when the weather turns a little schizophrenic.
It is the casual juxtaposed with the magnificent that creates a deep impression. Nothing is ostentatious. This is absolutely the place to indulge, relax and stay.
As if to reinforce this, the resort has become a hub for locals, boasting an array of activities such as golf, state-of-the-art riding facilities and fantastic programmes; swimming, giant chess sets, a sophisticated spa and lively wine bar. Coupled with the unparalleled and inimitable comfort factor only an American resort can create, Salamander Resort has all that one could desire.
The Rooms
Rooms are very generous in size. We stayed in a deluxe room and it was large enough to be considered a suite by many standards. Beds are very comfortable and the ease with which one can operate the lighting and technology systems is refreshing. Most rooms have gas fireplaces, a work area, a small dining area, and a Romeo and Juliet balcony.The rooms are decorated with landscape photographs of the countryside taken by none other than Ms. Johnson herself.
The bathroom, too, is notably large and offers both a bath and shower in separate areas. A large selection of products are on offer, as one would expect.
Spa
The spa is one of the highlights of the resort and, as one would ascertain from looking at the spa menu, has both sophisticated and basic treatments, appealing to both the discerning spa-goer and to those who wish only to relax.
From the Citrus Drench body wrap to the Blueberry Anti-Aging Facial skin treatment, the Salamander Resort has a hugely tempting menu of treatments, guaranteed to keep one occupied and feeling extraordinarily cleansed after the experience. The treatments are designed to provide the maximum number of nutrients and vitamins for the body, via the specific body/skin-treatment.
We opted for the Well Being Massage.
Before our appointment, we took the chance to visit the facilities of the spa. Here, women and men, respectively, have myriad options. There is a sauna, a wet room, a jet jacuzzi, indoor and outdoor pools, and plenty of relaxation areas as well as a substantial make-up counter for the women.
Our massage procedure started with us choosing our base essential oil – either peppermint or tea tree oil. This was used with another scent (in our case, lemon) to create a bespoke oil suited to your skin type. The massage, 50 minutes long, was an intense and relaxing treatment with a skilful balance of pressure. Afterwards, we were gifted a small bottle of the oil used to emulate the procedure (although in a less advanced manner!) at home.
We thoroughly enjoyed the experience and would strongly recommend at least one treatment when visiting the resort.
Riding
We were seriously impressed with the state-of-the-art riding facilities and extensive range of packages presented. If an early riser, one can opt for yoga in the stables, or, for the more maverick amongst our readers, the yoga on horseback (see the photo above). Salamander Resort boasts some 340 acres and, weather permitting, the Mindfulness Trail Ride is an option to explore the Virginian countryside and beautiful land of the resort.
We tried the Equine Communication 101, an amazing experience that we highly recommend! In this program, the rider and horse develop an more personal relationship establishing who is the master (hopefully the rider), all through body posture and communication. It is an utterly magical experience that will revolutionise any former experiences you may or may not have had with equestrian-related activities.
An amateur or advanced rider, be sure to check out the opportunities here.
The Food
Read our review of Harriman’s here.
An oenophile’s paradise; an oasis of calm activity; equestrian euphoria and an imitable atmosphere: the culmination of each experience results in an overwhelming feeling of total satisfaction. In a word? Bliss.
Salamander Resort
500 North Pendleton Street
Middleburg, VA 20117
Resort Phone 540.687.3600
http://www.salamanderresort.com/
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