The treatment included a full body massage and I came away with the softest, smoothest skin and a calm mind. I was worried I'd find being coddled in what looked like tin foil less relaxing and more silly, but the whole thing was gloriously indulgent. Happy to start with a pamper sesh, I booked a Cashmere Quench body wrap treatment at their 5* spa, never having had a body wrap before. Go to the spaīack at the Salamander, there are many wellness endeavours you can enjoy. It wasn't just the wine we drank that was made from their homegrown grapes, but the cheese we feasted on was made from the dairy cows also raised on the land, too. We spent a boozy lunchtime getting to know Jenni McCloud, a former tech entrepreneur who sold her company for $40mil and thought she'd have a crack at wine, founding Chrysalis Vineyards. Sipping on wine in a gorgeous, countryside backdrop feels like a duty in Virginia since they have over 300 vineyards and counting. View full post on Instagram Go wine tasting The foggy conditions made for an eerie, atmospheric daytime stroll - especially after our ranger informed us we might spot a bear - but the beauty of our surroundings was still very clear even if the viewpoint wasn't, and alas, no furry encounters. We headed out on a particularly misty day, spotting fields of wildflowers at every turn, led by our park ranger Claire Comer. We opted for the Stony Man trail an easy breezy route that briefly joins the famous Appalachian Trail which passes through 14 states. With 500+ miles of trails we headed to nearby Shenandoah National Park. I recommend packing your walking boots because America's national parks are famously spectacular, and well, Virginia has 10 of them. I immediately made a tea (delighted to find they had English Breakfast!) and embraced the peacefulness of it all. I stayed in the Terrace King guest room, the word 'room' meaning 'ginormous suite the literal size of my flat', featuring dark mahogany wood dressers, plush deep brown velvet couch, a king size bed with draped curtains and double doors that lead out to a private patio. ![]() The various artworks and furniture are handpicked by Sheila, and even small details, like the reception being tucked around the corner, changes the vibe from hotel to family estate. The familiar atmosphere make sense, as we discover CEO and founder of Salamander resorts Sheila Johnson's aim is for you to feel like you're walking into her own home. Even though it was Spring we quickly noted how magical this place would be at Christmas. People were relaxing as if it were their own living room, sat back on the deep comfy sofas with their dog napping by the fireplace, acres of land stretching out through the windows behind. ![]() Inside, we were welcomed by a chic, grand lounge that felt just as homey. Pulling up the pristine driveway, I thought of those stately homes you see in comforting childhood American movies, with white pillars and an immaculate lawn. The Salamander resort and spa is immediately impressive. It's got wine, walks and lots of outdoorsy adventures and with Jackie O's seal of approval we were sold. Known as the nation’s horse, hunt and wine capital, or, the Hamptons with horses, we visited Middleburg a charming and quaint town that won the heart of Jackie Kennedy. Surrounded by lush green farmland, this beautiful, historic state promises all four seasons, which we almost experienced during our short stay. ![]() Virginia could feel like a home away from home, especially for Brits who grew up in our scenic countryside.
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