Goat Yoga in Central New York
by Jacalyn Meyvis.
I recently spent a weekend in South New Berlin, New York at the NY Goat Yoga Glamping Retreat. Where’s South New Berlin? Located in Chenango County in Central New York, the grounds are nestled between Cortland and Cooperstown, just about three hours from my home in Rochester.
The retreat was held at the Gilbertsville Farmhouse, a unique event venue specializing in weddings and overnight retreats in the lush Central New York Region countryside. The family owned farm is located on 125 acres of field and forest with killer views!
Friday
We arrived on the farm Friday evening and we were welcomed by Sharon, the owner. She helped us unload our things and drove us in the golf cart to the tenting area. This is where the ‘glamping’ comes in. Glamorous camping! There are ten tents, each with its own beautiful décor. The bathhouse was also impressive with its seated area, swinging saloon like doors, and built in fireplaces. Sharon then invited us for a glass of wine back up at the farmhouse where she and her family live.
Our Friday evening started right out with Goat Yoga at 7:30p. Yoga was held outside in the grass by the pond. The family owns several baby goats which join attendees at the start of class. The goats roam around and feed on the hay laid out among everyone’s yoga mats. Before you know it, the rambunctious little guys are jumping on you mid-pose! The class is fun, playful, and not your typical yoga class. Guests are encouraged to take photos and feed the goats animal crackers throughout. After yoga we had a catered dinner in the barn. To end the night, we sat around a bonfire and watched a movie projected onto the side of the milk barn.
Saturday
Saturday began with breakfast outside of the main barn. Goat Yoga began at 10:00a inside the barn. Same deal here: goats running around everywhere! One jumped on my back during child’s pose and starting nibbling at my hair! It was entertaining to watch the goats jump around from person to person. After lunch we had free time until dinner at 6:30p.
At this time, attendees are free to use however they’d like. Some went on a hike, found some breweries nearby, played volleyball at the house, and relaxed in the hammocks which are set up behind the tents with blankets and pillows provided by the farm. My mom and I made the hour drive to nearby Cooperstown–a quaint little historic town with much more to see than just its famous baseball related activities.
When we returned, we met up with the rest of the group and finished our Saturday with dinner in the milk barn and followed it with Hip-Hop Yoga. This final yoga session didn’t feature goats, but the barn was dimly lit by candles and chandeliers that made for a great setting to wind down with.
Sunday
We checked out Sunday morning and the family gifted us with fresh farm eggs to take home! The gesture was a great way to finish off a fun weekend of relaxing.
The Gilberstville Farmhouse has been hosting weddings and events for the past four years. This is the second retreat the farm has held but they’re planning a couples retreat sometime this coming October. Stay tuned to their website and Facebook page for upcoming announcements–and of course, photos of adorable goats!
Jacalyn Meyvis is a freelance photographer in Rochester, NY. When she’s not planning the next adventure, find her moon gazing and touching plants. Follow her on Instagram and see her work at www.jacalynmeyvis.com
