The Zunerhof is a family-run farmhouse where the traditions of previous generations meet the open-minded spirit of today. This is how the farm describes itself on its website—and it captures its character perfectly. Beautifully situated at the foot of St. Andrew's Church and along the Chestnut Trail (Keschtnweg), this 12th-century farmhouse is a favourite destination for hikers, holidaymakers and anyone who appreciates authentic South Tyrolean home-style cuisine prepared to a high standard.
Among the most popular starters is "Zilli's Duo" – homemade pasta pockets filled with herbs and vegetables. Equally popular is the venison goulash served with porcini mushroom dumplings, one of the highlights of the meat dishes. Those with a sweet tooth are spoiled for choice with homemade cakes, plum dumplings, traditional farmhouse doughnuts, "Knieküchlein" and many other delicious desserts.
How long has Zilli been cooking? She explains that her father bought the farm almost sixty years ago. In 1985 she and her husband Thomas took over the property and opened the farmhouse restaurant. Holiday apartments were added a few years later.
"Cooking is my passion," says Zilli. "The kitchen is where I can express my creativity. I enjoy preparing delicious dishes from simple ingredients, many of them produced on our own farm, and presenting them beautifully. The greatest compliment is when guests come into the kitchen to tell me how much they enjoyed the meal. Their appreciation inspires me to keep creating new dishes."
Zilli is also delighted that the whole family is involved in the business. Her husband Thomas is the farm's all-rounder, taking care of the outdoor areas while also helping with table service. Whenever extra help is needed, their daughter-in-law Natalie is happy to lend a hand.
Their daughter Manuela has been working at the Zunerhof for the past six years and is responsible for guest service. Together with her partner Eric, she has developed an attractive cultural programme that has become one of the farm's trademarks. Known as "Stub'nkultur", it combines culinary enjoyment with cultural experiences, reflecting diversity and an open-minded atmosphere. In recent years, the summer event series "Zunersummer", featuring "Zilli's Koschterlen" tasting evenings accompanied by live music from a variety of bands, has been consistently fully booked.
Whether enjoying the popular Zuner Brunch or one of Zilli's seasonal specialities on the sunny terrace during the warmer months, listening to live music surrounded by nature, or experiencing traditional Törggelen evenings and South Tyrolean snacks in the historic 16th-century farmhouse parlours during autumn, the Zunerhof has earned an excellent reputation thanks to its unique "Stub'nkultur".
Helmut Tuschl from Holzkirchen, Germany, has been dining at the Zunerhof for more than thirty years. Over time he has become a close family friend. "I always feel at home at the Zunerhof," he says. "The Öhler family are wonderful people. Zilli's cooking is outstanding, I love the beautiful views, and I always enjoy chatting with the family. Every visit ends with a warm hug."