It was 2016 when Lainey Morse fell on hard times and found solace in goats to help her get through.
This was the start of what would become a phenomenon called Goat Yoga.
While most people consider goats just another farm animal, the reality is they are actually pretty affectionate, intelligent and so darn entertaining.
Oh, and then there is goat milk, I did not realize how much better it was for both people and animal babies.
Because of their loving and playful nature it makes them a natural for a relaxing yoga session.
Goat Yoga has remained a popular and fun fundraising event for animal rescues too.
Lainey Morse did not imagine that her idea would become the success that it did but here we are.
She has licensed her brand Original Goat YogaTM to several locations around the country.
And now she has come up with a new offering for us goat loving people.
Your support of these locations helps keep these goats fed and cared for while you get to enjoy their company.
Goatel Vacation Rentals
If you are getting your next trip planned, a visit to a Goatel may be just what your stressed mind and body is looking for.
A hotel with goats, I cannot really imagine anything more magical.
The hotels were created to offer animal lovers a nature inspired haven that allows you the opportunity to spend some time in the great outdoors while enjoying the company of goats.
Each night you stay at at a Goatel you can join in the fun with an hour of Goat Happy Hour Yoga.
There are currently 4 locations where you can stay in a Goatel, and you never know when they may add more.
The Texas Goatel
This location offers a loft that is located on the Goats on the Bayou Ranch.
The 4 person loft is situated above the goat barn and offers heat and air conditioning to keep you comfortable.
The waterfront ranch allows you to enjoy views of the Chocolate bayou and every night you can enjoy an hour of Goat Happy Hour along the waterfront.
Other things to do include hiking, fishing and swimming to round out a perfect nature inspired weekend.
This location is run and managed by the Alvin, TX branch of Goat Yoga.
They offer goat yoga on their farm which is located on a 3 acre of waterfront property.
Learn more about The Goatel of Texas and book your stay today.
The California Goatel
This Goatel is run by they San Francisco Bay branch of Goat Yoga and is set on the top of Mount Madonna.
This location offers 360-degree views that overlook the Redwood Forest and Monterey Bay.
The Goatel is actually a Yurt retreat that sleeps up to 5 people and offers a woodstove for heat and AC for those hot days.
A wrap around deck offers gorgeous views and it is set in an area that offers so many other activities like hiking, biking, beaches and wildlife watching.
There is also an RV on site that can be rented as well if you need more room.
Every night you will enjoy a one hour session of goat yoga to destress and make your soul happy.
Learn more about the Goatel Yurt Retreat on Mt. Madonna and book your stay today.
The Oregon Goatel
This Goatel spot is located at No Regrets Farm + Sanctuary in beautiful Bellfountain, Oregon.
The location features amazing 360 degree views of the Southern Willamette Valley and you can enjoy some time along the Pacific Ocean which is less than an hour away.
This location features Goat Happy Hour experiences which offer small groups enjoying therapeutic yoga along side those frisky goats.
You will feel the stress slipping away as your body relaxes and your mind takes in the fun and entertainment that goats have to offer.
They also offer a Goatel Day Stay where 2 people can come and spend the day working or being creative.
It offers wifi, a pot of coffee or tea and of course a variety of assistants from pigs to goats to enjoy.
The location is currently closed and will re-open in Spring 2022.
Looking for another relaxing place to chill with animals and get back to nature? Check out Happy Compromise Farm too.
The Georgia Goatel
Last but not least is the Georgia Goatel located in Rabun Gap, Georgia.
Finally, an east coast location.
Whether you stay at the Goatel or enjoy their Goat Happy Hour, a little time on the farm will definitely do a body good.
This location is settled on a beautiful 5.6 acre farm and is home to goats and chickens.
There is ample parking, a restroom and hand washing station and they also have an indoor space in the event the weather does not want to cooperate.
The owner also offers classes in pottery, reflexology and painting as well as a restorative retreat.
A Goatel is a great way to get away and relax in nature!
Keep an eye on the Goat Yoga website for updates on new Goatel locations so you can find one that appeals to you.
If a getaway is not in your plan right now, you can always enjoy some goat time with a Goat Yoga class near you.