Salamander Hotels and Resorts CEO Sheila Johnson has differentiated her emerging brand by making relaxation and de-stressing the mission of her resorts—and their serene spas a focal point.
The flagship Salamander Resort & Spa in Middleburg, Va., embodies her wellness philosophy by offering an immersion wellness experience including a state-of-the-art cooking studio, culinary garden, equestrian center and zip-line.
With a dedicated equestrian facility, attendees can also take advantage of the resort’s one-of-a-kind EquiSpective program. The goal is to unite horse and human to help develop leadership expertise, regardless of experience. The resort also has the Washington, DC area’s largest destination spa at 23,000 sf.
Johnson, who co-founded Black Entertainment Television and is part owner of the three sports teams in the NHL, NBA and WNBA, views Salamander’s properties more like manors or homes than hotels—places where people are relieved from stress and gain a sense of balance. She recently guided the improvements to the 18,000-sf spa at the newly rebranded Salamander Spa, Tampa Bay at Innisbrook Resort and added a new outdoor yoga and event terrace located in a serene private courtyard. Plans are to host workshops on meditation, yoga, mindfulness and nutrition. The Henderson Beach Resort also offers a variety of wellness classes, including its unique Aqua Zumba, a water-based, full-body workout. Salamander’s two other resorts, Hammock Beach Resort and Reunion Resort, also have full-service spas.
“Planners are constantly seeking out wellness-centric experiences to encourage mental and physical well-being among attendees,” says Matt Owen, corporate director of public relations, Salamander Hotels & Resorts. “Our properties offer an array of activities for the mind, body and spirit.”
