Design as Destination: Salamander Middleburg resort
Some people plan trips around landmarks. I plan them around beautiful spaces. Design as Destination is my collection of places where architecture, interiors, and thoughtful details are the main attraction. From iconic hotels to unexpected finds, these are the destinations that prove good design can be every bit as memorable as the journey itself.
Design as Destination: A Stay at Salamander Middleburg
We first learned of Salamander Middleburg shortly after our move to DC, where local friends raved about Salamander for the spa experiences. We have been able to visit for two short stays, one in November 2025, and one in June 2026. Salamander Middleburg is nestled in the rolling hills of Virginia’s famed horse and wine country, just about an hour west from Washington, DC, in Middleburg, VA. Set on more than 340 acres, this resort delivers a luxury and design focused escape. It was definitely DINKWAD approved by us, a perfect anniversary weekend or even honeymoon location. I saw many families there enjoying more kid centric activities, too.
A World-Class Retreat
Salamander Middleburg has earned multiple Forbes Five-Star Awards for its accommodations, dining, and spa experiencee, making it one of only a handful of resorts in the United States to receive such recognition for all three.
We had excellent interactions with all staff members. Professional, warm, attentive, and genuine. They made the stay feel extra special.
The classic equestrian themed rooms and suites offer panoramic views of the countryside, and many come with patios or balconies, perfect for morning coffee or watching the sunset. Our most recent stay we were upgraded to a suite with a fireplace, and that I think would be idlyic during a fall leaf peeping weekend.
The resort’s library-inspired lounge is perfect for curling up with a good book, enjoying a quiet cup of coffee, or simply soaking in the cozy. Think dark academia meets horse country, with rich dark wood, soft lighting, floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, tufted leather couches all around a central fireplace. We enjoyed a contentious and intense game of Scrabble. (Even the Scrabble set they have is luxury.)
What I appreciated most was how connected the design feels to its setting. Expansive windows allow views of rolling hills and horse country, centering landscape in the experience. My personal design aesthetic typically leans far more modern than traditional. Yet despite Salamander's capital T traditional approach, I deeply appreciated the thoughtfulness, craftsmanship, and design mindedness in their choices. It felt like cosplaying as Martha Stewart for the weekend.
Not to be Missed Experiences On-Site
Wellness seekers will love the 23,000 square foot spa, the only Forbes Five-Star spa in Virginia. I had the best massage of my life, no hyperbole, where a skilled masseuse worked out years-old knots.
There are two floors to the spa. The basement level is open to all hotel guests, and boasts a heated indoor pool, locker rooms, sauna, gym. Outdoor pool is a short walk away from the main building, also open to all hotel guests. It was under construction in 2025, but we got to visit during our June 2026 trip. They have landscaped this outdoor area beautifully, with lavender, flowers, and Japanese maples integrated into pool borders. I especially appreciate the 21+ section. One of the nicest hotel pools I’ve seen.
Fun fact: while I was taking these photos, a raccoon crept up in hopes of stealing my pizza! Reminding you just how much in nature you truly are.
One level up, at ground level, there is a spa that is open to guests with a spa services appointment (unfortunately they do not offer a spa day pass). This level contains relaxation loungers, indoor hot tub, rainwater style shower, steam room, and smaller outdoor pool with an infinity edge. Access to the spa area begins 2 hours before or after your spa booking (depends on what time of day you book). Spa appointments book up quickly, so they recommend booking well in advance. They were kindly able to fit me in same day, so you can always inquire if needed.
For outdoor adventure, the options are plentiful:
zip line
tennis / pickleball courts
putting green
walking and biking trails
equestrian center
For animal lovers, do not miss greeting Cupcake, the resident curmudgeon mini horse. There are other horses to visit in the stables, but none as tiny nor as sassy as Cupcake.
Dining, Wine, and Local Culture
Harrimans Virginia Piedmont Grill, onsite, features local ingredients. We dined there for breakfast, and had excellent french toast and pancakes, accompanied by lovely panoramic views of the countryside. It was neat to see seasonal differences in the menu offerings, accompanying the different seasons we visited in.
Beyond the property, the village of Middleburg offers boutique shopping, historic architecture, and some of the best vineyards in the state, all easily accessible via a short walk or drive into town. Guests can enjoy complimentary Lexus shuttle service for local destinations. This is top of my list to do upon a return trip, what a great way to explore local vineyards. Consider calling ahead, as times can get booked up, especially if you have a particular place in mind to visit.
Complimentary Lexus shuttle service available.
Exclusive Perks for Chase Sapphire Reserve Members
Salamander Middleburg is part of The Edit by Chase Travel, a curated collection of design-forward, experience-driven hotels available to Chase Sapphire Reserve cardholders. Book through Chase’s luxury travel platform and enjoy premium benefits like room upgrades (when available), daily breakfast credits, $100 property credit (for spa and/or onsite restaurants, welcome gift (Sugarfish candy), late checkout.
Why Salamander Middleburg Is Worth the Journey
Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, Honeymoon, a family escape, girls weekend, or a solo wellness retreat, Salamander Middleburg provides excellent quality and value in every category. Proving that Salamander Middleburg is more than a stay; it’s a destination in itself.
Thank you for the lovely stay, Salamander Middleburg!
