During the Fall of 2022, right around the time of the Texas Renaissance Festival, I embarked on a slow travel adventure to the outskirts of Houston, Texas. My goal? To unwind and work remotely for a week at Happy Goat Retreat, a unique glamping destination.
Why slow travel?
I love the concept of slow travel. You stay at a place for an extended period of time (I'd say a week minimum), and you're encouraged experience your trip from a place of leisure. I typically spend a week or more at a new location, working remotely during the day and exploring as a tourist on evenings and weekends.
My tourist activities are low-key – hikes, brewery visits, historical sites – nothing too strenuous. Accommodation is another key element. I usually opt for glamping experiences, but Happy Goat Retreat offered something different: container homes.
Unique Container Homes
These weren't your typical camping accommodations. Each container home boasted a full bathroom (shower, toilet, sink) and a kitchenette with a sink, microwave, and mini-fridge. Some even had a private deck with seating, perfect for enjoying the scenery and sunshine.
The real treat? A fire pit for cooking and a grill for outdoor dining. The fire pit was my favorite way to cook dinner....errr after I got the hang of lighting a fire.
Beyond Your Tiny Cabin
For those seeking more interaction, Happy Goat Retreat offered a community barn with a game room, TVs, seating, and even a full kitchen for larger gatherings. A small lake provided fishing opportunities, and a heated pool ensured year-round swimming.
I was by myself so I didn't do much in the community barn, but it was beautiful to walk the property and view the lake, pool, and the goats!
The Stars of the Show: The Goats!
As the name suggests, goats are a highlight at Happy Goat Retreat. Inside your cabin, you'll find a brown paper bag of treats to feed the adorable pygmy goats. They were so cute and sweet like playful puppies – perfect for the animal lover and of course, the kids!
I had no idea if I was allowed in the gated area, when I first went over there, so I feed them through the fence. 😅
A Week of Relaxation
My week at Happy Goat Retreat was a perfect blend of work and relaxation. I relied heavily on Instacart to have groceries delivered, making it easy to stock up on ingredients for grilled dinners.
Chicken skewers and vegetables were a staple, cooked to perfection over the fire pit. Evenings were spent by the fire with a local beer, enjoying the peace and quiet.
Perfect for Solo Travelers Who Like to Embrace the Chill Life
As a solo slow traveler, I particularly appreciated Happy Goat Retreat's unique accommodations, beautiful pool, and of course, the adorable goats.
While I didn't venture far, I did visit a local winery with a lovely atmosphere, live music, and delicious dessert.
The retreat itself provided a welcome change of scenery, especially during a stressful time at work. It was a chance to escape the negativity, find solace in nature, and refocus my energy.
Ideal for Groups Too
While my experience might seem quiet for some, Happy Goat Retreat caters to all types of travelers. Couples, families, and even larger groups can enjoy the unique accommodations, community amenities, and peaceful atmosphere.
Tips for Your Stay
- If you don't have a car, like me, Uber is a great option for getting around the area.
- Consider exploring nearby Lake Conroe for a change of scenery.
- Don't miss the opportunity to feed the goats! They are the stars of the show.
- Utilize Instacart to have groceries delivered, making it easy to prepare delicious meals at your cabin.
Escape to Happy Goat Retreat in Texas
Overall, Happy Goat Retreat is a fun and memorable destination for solo slow travelers seeking a relaxing escape. This is a place that I'd visit over and over again, ESPECIALLY if I lived closer. With unique accommodations, a variety of amenities, and adorable goats, it offers a truly unforgettable experience.