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Testing e Waters
Alas horseless, but bearing a suitcase packed
with riding clothes, I arrived at Salamander on
a glorious spring weekend. Beyond riding, the
equestrian center offers "Yoga at the Stable,"
which begins at sunrise in the immaculate center
aisle of the new barn and ends on horseback in
the round pen. e 23,000 square-foot spa also
caters to the equestrian, providing a "Rider's Re-
lief " massage focusing on the muscles most used
in riding. While you probably shouldn't come
here to buckle down and perfect your dressage
test, you'll definitely leave with a feeling of se-
renity.
Massive and bearing a distinct air of new-
ness, the hotel is still reminiscent of a gracious
old manor house and is based on Johnson's own
nearby estate. e equestrian motif echoes
throughout the decor and is tastefully integrated
along with an impressive collection of original
paintings and sculptures, most by local artists,
including many by Johnson herself.
e wing housing the 168 guest rooms is
four stories, one for each season, and the art and
decor corresponds accordingly (room numbers
are displayed on silhouettes of riding helmets).
e first floor is reserved for those traveling with
dogs, each accessible to the outside for quick
walks around the grounds.
Many rooms include their own fireplaces
Yoga on horseback
is one of the many
novelties offered at
Salamander Resort
and Spa.
PHOTO
COURTESY
OF
SALAMANDER