FRESH ORGANIC VEGETABLES FROM THE VILLNÖSSTAL
At 1,350 meters above sea level in the Villnösstal, the farm grows its own fresh organic vegetables, supplying the natural cuisine at the Lüsnerhof with seasonal ingredients. Sustainable farming, dedicated gardeners, and the unique location at the foot of the Geisler peaks provide the foundation for a healthy and nutritious kitchen in South Tyrol – connected to nature, regional, and full of flavor.
CHALLENGES OF A HIGH-ALTITUDE GARDEN
Gardening at 1,350 meters comes with its own rules. The weather is unpredictable, and the growing season is much shorter than in the valley. “While tomatoes are already flowering elsewhere, we’re just planting our seedlings,” explained Raphael.
With careful planning, the season can be maximized: up to four different crops are grown on each bed – from spinach and kohlrabi to lettuce and winter radishes. Interplanting ensures no space is left unused.
YEAR-ROUND COMMITMENT TO HEALTHY NATURAL CUISINE
After harvest, the work continues. Preserving, fermenting, drying, and storing ensure supplies for the winter. Each season is carefully documented to continually optimize cultivation. This guarantees a steady supply for the fresh, healthy kitchen, focused on sustainability and local ingredients.
BENEFITS OF MOUNTAIN AIR FOR VEGETABLES
High-altitude conditions offer advantages: moderate temperatures prevent heat stress, and many crops develop richer flavors. At the farm, artichokes, eggplants, peppers, tomatoes, pumpkins, broccoli, cabbage, and fruit such as plums, pears, Indian bananas, and berries thrive – all grown pesticide-free with pure spring water and fertile soil.
SUSTAINABILITY & BIODIVERSITY IN CULTIVATION
Raphael combined permaculture and market gardening: trees, shrubs, flowers, and herbs create habitats for beneficial insects and birds, while the vegetable beds are cultivated biodynamically, by hand, and without machines. “You can taste the difference,” he said.
TASTE THE DIFFERENCE: FRESHNESS, NATURE, FLAVOR
Guests at the Lüsnerhof experience the aroma and flavor of vegetables straight from the farm. In the natural cuisine, they are transformed into healthy, seasonal dishes – a culinary experience reflecting regionality, sustainability, and true freshness.
STAY AT THE MOUNTAIN FARM BLAUER
The farm also offers the holiday apartment Blauer with space, tranquility, and direct views of the Geisler peaks. Guided hikes in the Villnösstal are part of the weekly program, including a farm visit and insight into the cultivation of organic vegetables.
Today, a new team of passionate gardeners manages the farm, ensuring that the philosophy continues: sustainable farming, fresh and healthy cuisine, and a love for vegetables – for guests who value both nature and flavor.
How fresh mountain-grown organic vegetables are turned into culinary delights is revealed by the chefs of our natural cuisine HERE.