Myrtha Joos, Valendas - A dining table overlooking happy cows

A dining table overlooking happy cows

Chamois directly at the front door? Those who drive up to the Joos family farmhouse for the first time will have no doubt about this statement. Although the hamlet of Dutjen "only" lies at 1,500 metres above sea level, the narrow, winding road running from Valendas to Ober-Dutjen ascends 700 vertical metres in just six minutes over 6.6 kilometres! Guests looking for real Alpine farming cuisine and mountain air are in the right place here.

From the farm's newly adjoining winter garden, the view stretches down into the valley and on to the Brün alpine pasture located opposite. Cheese is produced here during the summer months and is served by the Joos as part of their drinks reception. Some of the milk used in the cheese originates from the Joos-family cows. And they're looking over at my plate right now – from the table you cannot only see the valley and surrounding mountains, but also the open-space barn.

The family sells its organic beef under the label "Weidebeef". It only makes sense that Myrtha Joos prepares her main course with it. The ragout melts in your mouth and the sauce is creamy and full of flavour.

Cooking is part and parcel of Myrtha Joos' everyday life. "I love to entertain guests. This is also the reason that I applied for the Tavolatas. We lead a fairly secluded life here end enjoy meeting new people".