Salamander Middleburg

A four-season resort and equestrian center on 340 rolling acres in Virginia horse country.

This isn’t a small B&B, which is what the area is traditionally known for. Rush hour traffic also makes Middleburg seem farther than its actual 42 miles to Washington, D.C.

Travelers who are familiar with Middleburg might not believe that this 168-room property is within walking distance of the historic town’s main street. Built in traditional style, it manages to blend in beautifully with its Virginia country surroundings, a region known for its horse culture—fox hunting and the Gold Cup are fall and spring favorites—and, increasingly, vineyards. Novices and well footed equestrians can sign up for English-style riding lessons and oak-tree lined trail rides in the 22-stall stable, or skip the trot and spend a day in the 23,000-square-foot spa where some treatment rooms have gas fireplaces. Come evening, the resort’s public spaces—the soaring lobby, where creamy seating areas cozy up to fireplaces, the handsome wood-paneled Gold Cup Bar—are cheerful and social, as is the rotunda-style restaurant with near 360 degree views of surrounding green pastures. Four guest floors play up a light four seasons theme; Thomas Pheasant-designed have canopied beds and terraces or balconies. The hotel is also pet friendly.

Horse lovers will be in heaven, but even if you’re not hot to trot, the resort’s equestrian elegance is alluring. Also, thanks to its stone-fenced farms dotted with ambling cows, Middleburg can feel like a younger Cotswolds without the hassle of crossing the pond.

Sampling a flight of wine served in horseshoe carriers on the lobby’s stone terrace, as the sunsets over tall oaks and rolling green hills.

Harrimans Virginia Piedmont Grill - Highlights fresh, seasonal ingredients, captivating farm to table elements

Gold Cup Wine Bar - Takes a sophisticated spin on southern cuisine with locally sourced ingredients

Gold Cup Wine Bar

Billards Room