27-02-2025
How To Get R&R in D.C.
These days (and, to some extent, always), D.C. is a hotbed of political machinations.
For the rest of the country, it's possible to take breaks from the relentless news cycle, avoiding social media and various TV outlets. But here, Washingtonians are in the thick of it all the time.
That's part of what makes the new Salamander Hotel such a welcome reprieve.
Since first opening its doors in the city's lesser-known Southwest waterfront neighborhood in September 2022, within strolling distance via a special path to the new elaborate Wharf development, this 373-room property has become an upscale escape from the everyday. Housed in what was once a Mandarin Oriental property, the Salamander has been gradually face-lifted to refresh, but also shift, the vibe and aesthetic to something warmer and more inviting. 'It was important that guests felt like they were walking into someone's home rather than just a hotel,' says Manuel Martinez, the hotel's managing director. 'So, we went for a brighter, more residential-like design and moved away from the dark tones [and] dim lighting.'
Some travelers may be better acquainted with the original Salamander property, also owned by Sheila Johnson, a DMV (or D.C., Maryland and Virginia area) fixture and businesswoman who co-founded TV network BET. Located in Middleburg, Virginia, that five-star resort has a more bucolic feel, unique for its 25 acres dedicated to equestrian activities. In contrast, this newer hotel is decidedly citified. And yet the overall feel is meant to evoke a similar homeyness. 'We started by transforming the lobby into an inviting living room, adding soothing hues of whites and soft blues…creating a place for guests to gather around,' describes Martinez. A similar color scheme abounds in the hotel's new suites with details like giant tubs, twin sinks and products by boutique Provençal brand, Mistral.
Though perhaps subtle, the nods to horses still abound, from a bas-relief artwork behind the front desk to a horse-shoe-shaped bar in the reimagined lounge (where an elaborate afternoon high tea has become a major draw).
Also new, West African restaurant, Dōgon, just opened in September 2024. Helmed by chef Kwame Onwuachi, the eatery has quickly become one of the most elusive reservations in the city. In addition, the hotel is about to unveil their brand new Monument Club, an amenity-packed exclusive offering in a swanky but comfortable two-story space, decked out in tranquil creams and blues.
But it's the brand new spa—the only dual-level one in the district—that pulls the most focus. Since opening its doors in November 2024, locals and visitors have been flocking here for services that aren't offered elsewhere in town. Guests are welcomed into a stark white space with a thoughtfully curated shop, offering up products from Ignae's plant-based complexes to Knesko's detox kits. Next, they're escorted downstairs to a changing area and relaxation lounge, where a sauna, steam and hot tub await.
The hotel has considered all the details here: robes are extra plush and refreshments include requisite spa water, naturally, but also individual packets of dried tropical fruits and cookies. The treatment menu includes local specialities like a Cherry Blossom Ritual, new-fangled wellness offerings like Sound Bowl Therapy and zeitgeist-y options like the Sweet Dreams CBD Massage. But, truly, a simple Signature Massage is also heaven here (especially if you request Stella!).
Here, on a heavenly heated massage table, you can truly escape the stresses of the world—if only for a moment.
