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Welcome to the second iteration of Vogue’s global spa guide, an index of the 100 best spas in the world, built from the expertise of our global editors and trusted contributors. There is a lot to choose from in the world of wellness, and no matter how far you’re planning to travel—from a subway ride to a trans-Atlantic flight—we want to make sure it’s worth the journey. Whatever your path, let us be your guide.
Why go here?
Salamander is the complete package for the fox-and-hound set—or anyone looking for a few nights in the rolling hills of Virginia horse country. Located only minutes by foot from charming Middleburg (colonial-era inns, locals donning riding boots, abundant boutique wine shops), the hotel—set on a 340-acre estate—is an oasis for beginner and advanced riders. (There are 15 gorgeous horses, including a charmer called Elvis and miniature horse named Cupcake.) There is also a full-service spa, offering everything from a salon to prep your hair for dinner, to a pedicure to color your toes, to a spread of saunas and soaking tubs (including a private spa-only pool outside). Arrive early for your treatment and sit in the steam room—this one is so dense with vapor that it feels—soothingly—like a sensory deprivation tank. Leave time for the experiential shower: When set to the tropical-storm setting, it delightfully batters you with water. Then relax on the tepidarium chairs, set to a bone-warming 95 degrees. Services are offered in rooms with adjacent private courtyards. A hummingbird might just flutter in to say hello, and the sound of chattering house finches provides a bucolic soundtrack. Bonus treatments include the Rasul, a hammam-inspired experience in a private ceramic chamber, and they all up the ante for already exquisite body wraps and massages.
What’s the vibe?
This Salamander (there are five locations in total) is the epitome of country class—without an ounce of kitsch. Mahogany-paneled communal spaces include a bar and billiards room, a wide stone terrace overlooks an expanse of perfect lawn, and towering oaks rustle in the breeze. Grape vines cover the brick walls and big skies open up above the pastures. The spa is a sea of smooth neutrals and luxe fabrics, like the embroidered crewel work blankets set on green linen chaise lounges in the sunny relaxation room. This is full comfort: Caramel biscotti and blueberry tea are on offer, and the robes are so plush you can wear them to the outdoor terrace even on chillier days.
The history
Hotel maven and cofounder of BET, Sheila Johnson established the Salamander right down the road from her own Virginia home in 2013. Since then, the hospitality group has opened resorts in Jamaica, Aspen, Tampa Bay, and Charleston. Previously the Mandarin Oriental, A Washington, DC, location opened recently.
What should you try?
The Calming Antara Ritual—Salamander’s signature, meant to rebalance your skin—starts with a long exfoliating scrub to whisk away dead cells. Then your body is coated in a lush CBD-infused cream that is known to alleviate muscle tension and wrapped up in a heat-insulating sheet. For the 25 minutes it soaks in, your feet and scalp are subject to deep, transportive pressure-point massages. For the last hour, a full-body rubdown unwinds every sinew: My excellent masseur Brian could even tell what side of my body I sleep on and unwound those jammed-up muscles.
How environmentally friendly is it?
Salamander uses products from lines like Zents, Acrely Farms, Oka-B, and Conscious Coconut, which focus on creating pure products and reducing their carbon footprint. They also donate towels, robes, and other spa items to charitable organizations that will give them new life.
Who can go?
Washingtonians keen for some time outside the beltway can drive up here for a one-night stay or for much longer. Dulles International Airport is so close (just 20 miles) that it’s incredibly convenient for out-of-staters to drop in. Staff will even arrange a “town and country” trip with dual stays at their Middleburg and DC hotels.
Booking details for Salamander Resort
Address: 500 N Pendleton St, Middleburg, VA 20117
Read more from Vogue’s Global Spa Guide.