Saddle up! Entertainment mogul Sheila Johnson opens sumptuous new riding resort on 340 acres of Virginia wine country
PUBLISHED: 13:02 EST, 24 August 2013 | UPDATED: 07:50 EST, 25 August 2013
Come next week, Washington DC’s moneyed elites and power brokers with a taste for equestrian sports will have a new over-the-top vacation destination.
Millionairess and founder of Black Entertainment Television Sheila Johnson will open the doors of her high-end Salamander Resort and Spa in the historic village of Middleburg, Virginia, next Thursday.
The posh 340-acre property nestled in the heart of Virginia’s lush horse and wine country an hour away from the capital features 168 well-appointed rooms and suites, a 23,000-square-foot spa and a full-service equestrian center.
Playground for the rich: Millionairess and founder of Black Entertainment Television Sheila Johnson will open the doors of her high-end Salamander Resort and Spa in the historic village of Middleburg, Virginia
Giddy up: A short distance from the resort are miles of trails where riders can bring their own horses
Salamander was built on the former estate of Pamela Harriman, a glamorous English-born socialite and one-time daughter-in-law of Winston Churchill, who was described by one of her numerous lovers as ‘the greatest courtesan of the century.’
Envisioned as a playground for the rich, Salamander offers all the trappings of luxury, from well-appointed guestrooms to fine dining options, a full-service riding center and a high-end spa.
Salamander comes with a full-service equestrian center offering horse lovers riding lessons, jumping and polo.
Just a short distance from the property’s 22-stall stable and riding ring are miles of trails where riders can bring their own horses.
Black Female Equestrians 