Salamander Resort (Middleburg, VA) Rating: A

Salamander Resort (Middleburg, VA)

Rating: A

Salamander is one of the few resorts near Washington that actually delivers on the fantasy it sells. This is quiet luxury done correctly--polished without being stuffy, elegant without trying too hard, and exactly what you hope for when escaping to Virginia horse country.

The location is a huge advantage because you can walk into town instead of feeling trapped at the resort. The grounds are beautiful, the rooms are spotless, the service is excellent, and everything feels thoughtfully maintained. Some of the activities are definitely overpriced, but if you're already spending over a thousand dollars a night, you've probably made peace with that reality before arrival.

Verdict: A true luxury retreat that earns its reputation. I do have a bone to pick with Harrimans, their fancy restaurant, but that rant lives under Restaurants of the USA.  Ass hats there.