Sheryl Jordan wanted to be the Equestrian Director at Sheila Johnson's Salamander Resort & Spa eight years ago when she first heard about it. Over the ensuing years until she was offered the position, she occasionally dropped a note to Prem Devadas, president of the company, to stay in touch.

"It was my dream job," she says smiling. "I grew up in Northern Virginia and I fell asleep on my rocking horse when I was little. I've been riding, eventing and hunting in this area forever, and I've and managed stables and directed equestrian programs for ten years. What could possibly be more magnificent than to build an equestrian program from the barn up for Salamander?"

More than 400 equestrian events including polo, steeplechases, horse shows and the internationally recognized Gold Cup are headquartered in Virginia horse country so it is not surprising that more U.S. Olympic riders have elected to train in the area than in any other region in the country. It is, therefore, only logical that a splendid equestrian center would be an integral part of Salamander Resort.

"I've been in the equestrian industry for 42 years and this is the first new barn that's been under my direction." What a magnificent barn it is: a masterwork of light, airy space and understated elegance that will provide comfort to every steed and stallion and a wonderful place to work and learn the equestrians way of life.

The tongue-and-groove knotty pine is settling in and the fresh sweet hay is securely stored in the loft. The tack rooms are ready and every horse is settled into a roomy stall that has double Dutch doors with yolks that allow each to catch an excellent breeze in fair weather and rest warmly in the winter.

The heart of the 22-stall stable is a vaulted space that provides plenty of room for traffic and would be a lovely place for a party.

"This is such a spectacular facility. I even have brand new washers and dryers," Sheryl pointed out. "We have two regular machines for every day washing and two commercial machines for blankets and heavier things. This is high luxury and great time saver in the stables."

Set on the edge of the Salamander estate, the barn opens onto miles of fine horse country, with sweeping views of green pastures and black fences. There are nine paddocks and 1-to-2.5 acre lots for turnout options.

During hunting season, the panorama across the fields and meadows will be spectacular.

"The Hunt has absolute right of way over our land," Sheryl continued. "We will happily defer to The Hunt in the traditional manner."

Sheryl will provide lessons in five disciplines but she wants to be careful not to infringe on the many riding lessons now available in the area. Partnering with existing teachers will be the best way forward according to the new equestrian director.

"We want to be good neighbors and foster a love of nature in our students whether or not they ride."

In fact, she will welcome people in the barn who simply love horses, but do not love to ride.

"Human-to-horse interaction is a specialty of mine," she explains. "A horse is truly an accurate reflection of its person and successful interaction is something that can be learned and enjoyed for a lifetime."

When Helen Thompson wrote, "In riding a horse we borrow freedom," she captured what so many riders will enjoy at Salamander Resort & Spa in the years to come. Racing or cantering across the beautiful meadows and through the ancient woodlands will free any individual from the cares of the day.

For more information, please visit the website www.salamanderresort.com.