Where innovation and tradition coexist 

Malga Van is located just above Valmorel, nestled in an alpine meadow among the Dolomites. A simple and authentic place, where the craft of the mountain herder meets the 20th century and modernity.

It is an excellent rest stop and a must-visit for those walking along the trails of Valmorel seeking peace, tranquility, and perhaps something good on their plate.

It is managed by the Pascolando Cooperative: a group of friends – breeders and local experts – who work together and have found a new way to experience the mountains.

 « Here you can rediscover the flavors of the past, feel the passage of the seasons, and connect with nature! » 

A few more details, that make a difference

At an altitude of 980 meters, Malga Van is accessible by car, but it is recommended to reach it on foot, following one of the many scenic trails in the area.

The structure, owned by the Municipality of Limana, dates back to 1900 and has been modernized several times over the years.

The restaurant is open only during the beautiful season, from Easter to the end of October – it always concludes with the Desmontegada festival, a tradition that involves the parade of animals from the pastures to the square of Valmorel. The breeding and sales point, however, remains operational all year round, in collaboration with the Turnaria Dairy of Valmorel. 

The agriturismo keeps the kitchen open on Saturdays and Sundays (and public holidays), serving visitors to Valmorel and hikers. Additionally, between July and August, customers can also enjoy cold dishes and sandwiches made with local products during the week.
Reservation is recommended, as seating is limited. In any case, the folks at the Pascolando Cooperative will ensure you sample their products: always fresh and with authentic flavors. 

During the summer, unique and evocative events are often organized, which find in the wonderful setting of Malga Van the perfect venue! Tastings of typical products, moments of meditation, stargazing, concerts, educational visits about the life of the mountain herder, and much more...

All collaborations with other local entrepreneurs: a network of mutual support that guarantees a zero-kilometer supply chain, in full respect of sustainability and the history of the place. And which makes Malga Van a venue with a varied offering: suitable for all those who want to experience and live Valmorel.

In addition to preserving tradition, Malga Van is also a small laboratory of innovation. It is indeed the experimental hub of the Elserino Piol Foundation committed to developing technologies applied to the primary sector.

Here, tools and approaches related to sustainable agriculture, smart farming, and intelligent pasture management are tested. Smart collars, soil and distance sensors, data collection techniques... 
In short, Malga Van is a context in full evolution but grounded, acting as a bridge between the past and the present.

Lastly, the Cooperative is preparing to provide accommodation for those who decide to undertake long hikes along the ridges of the Dolomites, because the goal is not quick tourism but a slower, regenerative experience. 
For now, however, the Malga remains just a restaurant and sales venue.

And speaking of products... Every day, local companies take turns processing the milk collected using traditional techniques at the Turnaria Dairy of Valmorel. The cheeses and butter are always fresh and can be taken away or enjoyed on site.

 « At Malga Van, you don’t come just for the authentic food and rustic atmosphere... You come to discover the mountain that works and resists every day and to experience nature! »