Bregenzerwald Cheese Road Show Dairy
Vorarlberg
The Bregenzerwald Cheese Road Show Dairy is part of the renowned Käsestraße Bregenzerwald, a network of cheese producers and marketers in the Bregenzerwald region of Vorarlberg, Austria. This dairy showcases the traditional alpine cheese-making processes that have been preserved and promoted to sustain the region's small-scale agriculture. The Käsestraße Bregenzerwald emphasizes the production of silage-free hay milk, a unique quality standard that makes the region the largest contiguous silage-free area in the European Union. Visitors to the dairy can experience the authentic methods of crafting Bregenzerwälder Alp- and mountain cheeses, celebrated regional specialties. The dairy is embedded in a cultural landscape that values the traditional three-stage alpine farming system, recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage. Besides cheese production, the dairy is part of a broader initiative to preserve local customs, dialects, and crafts, contributing to the vibrant gastronomic and cultural identity of the Bregenzerwald. The route along the Käsestraße also links numerous other producers, inns, and markets, creating an immersive culinary journey through the alpine villages and pastures. This makes the dairy not only a place to taste exquisite cheese but also a gateway to understanding the sustainable rural lifestyle and heritage of Vorarlberg.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to explore the Käsestraße route during the warmer months when alpine pastures are active and producers open their dairies for tours. Purchasing tickets or booking guided tours in advance is recommended, especially for groups. Discounts may be available for families or through regional tourism partnerships. Sampling local cheeses and attending farmers' markets along the route enrich the experience. The dairy can be reached by car or local transport from Bregenz, and combining the visit with hiking or cultural events in the region enhances the trip.
Interesting facts
- •The Bregenzerwald region represents the largest contiguous silage-free hay milk production area in the European Union.
- •The traditional three-stage alpine farming system practiced here was inscribed by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage in 2010.
- •In 2008, the Käsestraße Bregenzerwald hosted the world's largest cheese table, stretching 479 meters, attracting around 1,700 visitors.
- •The Käsestraße network includes about 170 members covering the entire cheese production and marketing chain, from alpine pastures to gastronomy.
- •The Bregenzerwald Cheese Road spans over 75 kilometers, connecting alpine villages and showcasing regional cheese specialties.
History
The concept of the Käsestraße Bregenzerwald emerged in the early 1990s as a response to economic challenges following Austria's 1995 entry into the European Union, which caused a significant drop in milk prices threatening small family farms.
The initiative began with the "First Vorarlberg Cheese Summit" in 1994, bringing together stakeholders from agriculture, tourism, and trade to secure the future of the region's cheese culture.
By 1998, the Käsestraße brand was established, encompassing around 170 members spanning farmers, dairies, restaurants, and tourism operators.
This cooperative effort helped preserve the traditional alpine farming system and promoted the region's cheese as a culinary specialty.
Over time, the Käsestraße has become a vital cultural and economic asset, supporting sustainable agriculture and tourism in the Bregenzerwald.
Place Guide
Show Dairy
The central exhibit where visitors can observe traditional cheese-making techniques using silage-free hay milk. Demonstrations often include the crafting of Bregenzerwälder Alp- and mountain cheeses, illustrating the artisanal processes preserved for generations.
Käsestraße Route
A thematic 75-kilometer route linking various cheese producers, alpine inns, and markets throughout the Bregenzerwald. The route offers immersive experiences including farm visits, tastings, and cultural events highlighting local craftsmanship and traditions.
Contact
Phone: 05514 30020
