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First up , the Pentagon is just across the George Mason Memorial Bridge as you leave the city behind . You can either marvel at it on a quick drive by or sign up for an hour tour of the headquarters of the U . S . Department of Defense and world ’ s second-largest office building . Then , just up the road is Arlington National Cemetery : the globally recognized burial location hosts the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the eternal flame at President John F . Kennedy ’ s grave .
Finally , hit the road for about 40 miles then stop for lunch or an afternoon snack and tasting at Quattro Goombas winery and brewery , suggests freelance writer and local guide , Austin Graff . (@ austinkgraff on Instagram ). “ There ’ s something for everyone — beer , sour ales , wine , pizza , and weekend live music ,” he shares , adding that there ’ s plenty of space for everyone , too , including a family section and separate adults-only area .
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GREENHILL WINERY AND VINEYARDS
SALAMANDER MIDDLEBURG
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QUATTRO GOOMBAS WINERY AND BREWERY |
38 I SALAMANDER 2024 |
Middleburg , Virginia
The trip to Middleburg is like driving through the English countryside . Stone stacked fences line the roads , which are dotted with one small town after another . But , there are very few with the history and culture of Middleburg , and none that can showcase 15 stars — which in the case of Salamander Middleburg represents three separate Forbes Five-Star ratings for accommodations , spa and dining . This makes the resort one of only five in the United States and 13 worldwide to achieve these designations .
We recommend checking in at the resort first before venturing out , as you can easily walk into the village or use Salamander ’ s car service . There are plenty of local attractions to explore in this historic town , including numerous boutiques , specialty shops and restaurants . With just one stop light , but several side streets with hidden gems , Middleburg has a particular charm and celebrates the equestrian lifestyle , which has drawn many famous residents for decades . President John F . Kennedy and First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy would often spend their White House weekends out in the countryside and were building a home in the area before President Kennedy was tragically killed .
After exploring Middleburg for all it has to offer and more , we suggest retreating
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back to the resort to either relax or choose from an expansive list of activities from horseback riding to mountain bike tours , mixology classes , cooking demos , foraging hikes and more . Many also come to enjoy the Salamander Spa , which boasts tailored wellness treatments and a private outdoor courtyard with a heated pool , while an evening at Salamander is not complete without a dining experience at Harrimans Grill , which is the newest Forbes Five-Star-rated restaurant in the mid-Atlantic .
With a nightcap in hand , take a seat at the outdoor fire pit , reflect on a star-filled dining experience and take in the clear night sky .
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COURTESY OF UNITED STATES BOTANIC GARDEN |