We all could use a little relaxation right now. I can think of no better place than the Salamander Resort & Spa in Middleburg, Virginia, as a quintessential “get-away-from-it-all” destination. Located just over 30 minutes west of Dulles airport, you never would know that you were only an hour away from the nation’s capital. Idyllic rolling hills, farmland, and wineries abound in this bucolic landscape, where the Kennedy’s and the Obama’s have been known to frequent.
This Forbes five-star resort is located on 340 acres in the heart of Virginia’s tony wine and horse country, which is at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Just being in this location is relaxing in and of itself, yet Salamander offers a myriad of opportunities to get your chill on. From the three pools (one indoor and two outdoor – one of which is adults-only) to the highly acclaimed 23,000 square foot spa, you’re destined to lull yourself into serenity.
Even for folks who lean towards being more active, there are endless activities at the resort: a full gym (fitness classes, personal training, and yoga/meditation available for a fee), tennis, basketball, zip-lining, frisbee golf, a complimentary putting green for aspiring golfers, full equestrian center, lawn games (including croquet, bocce ball, corn hole, and life-sized chess), hiking and biking trails (bike rentals available), archery and ax throwing, falconry, daily family/kids activities (some for a fee), cooking classes, cocktails with Cupcake the miniature horse (don’t worry – the horse doesn’t drink alcohol), and a catch-and-release fishing pond. In addition, river float and fishing excursions are available for a fee.
If you’re into romance or just love really good food and wine, check out Harrimans Virginia Piedmont Grill or the Gold Cup Wine Bar. Or, relax in the beautiful lounge area or library.
Care to venture away from the resort? (I know – it’s really hard to leave!) The town of Middleburg is very charming with lots of unique shops, while the tiny town of Upperville (15 minutes away) has a historic tavern with yummy food and nice outdoor seating. And, then, there are the WINERIES! There are more than 20 within a 30-minute drive of the resort, which means that you should make sure to arrange for some transportation through the concierge!
I have stayed at Salamander twice – both times in the Grand Prix Suite. Here is a little tour…first, the entrance hallway, where there is a half bathroom to the left:
Next is the wet bar and desk area, which leads into the living room:
Below is the living room (looking back towards the entrance hallway). There is a large sectional sofa (not a sleep sofa) and a TV over the gas fireplace. Also, there is a table with several chairs to the left. And, there is a crazy toddler who can’t sit still with Mickey Mouse on the sectional (more on that later).
Here is the balcony, which is located off of the living room. It looks out to the woods, as our suite was at the end of the hallway in the corner, so we had lots of privacy. We were on the 4th floor, which is the top level.
Here is a photo of our messy bedroom (our fault, not the hotel’s!). There is lots of natural light from the windows around the bed.
And, now the entrance to the master bathroom, which is adjacent to the bedroom, and my favorite part about the suite! There are two closets on either side of the entrance and double vanity sinks. Marble everywhere!
Here is more of the master bathroom. The large tub is to the right, and a massive shower is on the left. The shower is absolutely to die for, with multiple spray heads (I’m a shower, not a bath, gal). There is a private room for the commode next to the shower and even a small TV. (Apologies for the blurry photo!)
Here is another view of the master bathroom, which has natural light through a window and has a separate vanity area:
While Salamander is a family-friendly resort (there are a LOT of activities), it’s probably better for older children (not toddlers). I kind of felt stressed out when I had my crazy toddler/pre-schooler with us both times I visited, like he was making too much noise indoors. (yes, the hotel is meant to be serene).
That being said, this resort is absolutely perfect for a romantic getaway or a spa weekend. Interested in visiting? As your vacation concierge, I can offer you complimentary amenities during your stay, such as a resort credit, free breakfast, early check-in/late check-out, and a room upgrade (subject to availability). With all of that, you definitely will not want to leave the serenity of this resort!