718 Outdoors Retreat

Location: Gardiner, New York

Set against the dramatic cliffs of the Shawangunk Ridge—known locally as The Gunks—Gardiner, NY is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and seekers of scenic beauty. This close-knit town in Ulster County blends rugged landscapes with small-town charm, offering sweeping views, exceptional climbing and hiking trails, and a laid-back yet adventurous spirit. It’s the perfect launchpad for a restorative weekend filled with movement, good food, and community.

The Chef: Oliver Levitch

Chef Oliver’s culinary journey is rooted in a deep love for nourishing others. Whether cooking for friends or curating a full retreat menu, his focus remains the same: healthy, vibrant meals prepared with the freshest local and seasonal ingredients. Trained in kitchens across the Bay Area, the Santa Barbara Riviera, New York City, Denmark, and London, Oliver brings a global range of techniques to a grounded, produce-forward approach. His cooking allows the quality of the ingredients to shine—simple, elegant, and always satisfying.

The Host: 718 Outdoors

Founded by Joe Nocella, 718 Outdoors was born from a lifelong love of biking—first for freedom, then function. A former NYC bike messenger, Joe’s passion was reignited in 2008 after his own bike was stolen, leading him to start building bikes in his backyard. When a neighbor asked if he sold them, the spark turned into a business. Today, 718 Cycles represents a hands-on, community-first philosophy of biking—rooted in resilience, craft, and a refusal to stop riding.

Arrival Day Ride (Optional)

If you're taking the train, bring your bike and enjoy a beautiful 19-mile ride from Poughkeepsie to Wright’s Farm. The route is mostly car-free, featuring a stunning ride over the Walkway Over the Hudson and along the Empire State Trail through New Paltz, with a final stretch on the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail. Estimated ride time: 2–3 hours.

Ride Day: Minnewaska Adventure

30.8 miles · +2,896 ft / -2,998 ft
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Grab your bike and a packed lunch and join Joe from 718 Outdoors for an epic ride through the carriage roads of Minnewaska State Park. Starting with a 12-mile approach from Wright’s Farm, we’ll head southwest toward the shores of Lake Awosting, continue to Rainbow Falls for lunch, and then explore the beaches and looping paths of Minnewaska Lake before riding back to base.

Skill level: Moderate. Expect some elevation and carriage road terrain (~32% of the ride). The relatively short distance and daypack only riding make it accessible and enjoyable for most cyclists.

The Bar Program

All weekend long: specialty cocktails, local beers, natural wines, and plenty of non-alcoholic bevvies.

Food

• Friday dinner: Campfire classics—hot dogs and burgers

• Saturday: Continental breakfast, packed lunch, chef-driven dinner

• Sunday: Continental breakfast

• Snacks: Available throughout the weekend

Amenities

• Flush toilet

• Scenic farm setting

• Outdoor gathering space

Run of Show

Day 1 – Friday

• 10:00 AM: Train to 19 mile ride

• 5:00 PM: Arrival + icebreakers

• 7:00 PM: Dinner (campfire-style)

• 9:30 PM: Bonfire + stargazing

Day 2 – Saturday

• 8:00 AM: Breakfast

• 9:00 AM: Ride Day (w/ packed seasonal lunch)

• 4:00 PM: Return + unwind

• 5:00 PM: Workshop

• 7:30 PM: Dinner with Chef Oliver

• 9:00 PM: Ghost stories + s’mores

Day 3 – Sunday

• 9:00 AM: Breakfast + time to relax

• 11:00 AM: Departures

***No Transporation provided for this retreat. You will be taking the train and cycling to site!