FARM TO TABLE: THE JOURNEY OF CARING FOR HAPPY CHICKENS AT ANA MANDARA VILLAS DALAT

Nestled halfway up the lush pine-covered hills of Ana Mandara Villas Dalat, overlooking the valley and cityscape, Le Jardin Organic Farm is not only a place where fresh vegetables and herbs are lovingly grown, but also a “little home” for happy chickens that spend their days freely roaming amidst the pristine nature of Dalat.

At Ana Mandara Villas Dalat, the concept of “Farm to Table” goes beyond simply bringing fresh ingredients to the dining table. It reflects the resort’s commitment to kindness and care in every process, where all ingredients begin with an understanding of nature, respect for natural rhythms, and a dedication to sustainable well-being.

Le Jardin – An Organic Farm Among Dalat’s Pine Forests

Every morning at Le Jardin begins with the cheerful songs of birds calling to one another on the bare persimmon branches, the scent of dew-kissed grass, and gentle sunlight filtering through dense tree canopies, casting long rays onto the ground. This organic garden is nurtured like a miniature ecosystem, where vegetables, herbs, and animals thrive together in a natural and balanced environment.

Without the use of chemical pesticides or industrial farming methods, Le Jardin embraces a sustainable organic model with natural compost, handcrafted care, and meticulous daily observation. Fresh greens, tomatoes, herbs, and aromatic plants are harvested daily to serve guests at Le Petit restaurant, located just across from the farm.

And tucked away in a special corner of the garden stands a charming brown wooden house, home to the chickens — the resort’s little “local residents” proudly born and raised in Dalat.

Raising Chickens with Happiness and Care

Unlike conventional industrial farming models, the chickens at Le Jardin are raised solely for egg production and are never used for meat. The priority here is not productivity, but the quality of life the chickens enjoy every single day.

With a mobile chicken coop model, the chickens are free to move around comfortably, bask in natural sunlight, and enjoy Dalat’s cool, refreshing air. They spend their days naturally running, foraging, resting, and living according to their own biological rhythms.

No loud noise, no cramped environment, no pressure for accelerated growth — everything about the chicken area is maintained as gently and naturally as possible. This low-stress environment helps the flock remain healthy, active, and balanced both physically and behaviorally.

Organic Feed from the Garden Itself

One of the key factors behind the quality of Le Jardin’s eggs is the chickens’ nutritious diet.

Their feed is carefully selected, with priority given to ingredients sourced directly from the resort’s organic garden. Fresh greens, herb leaves, organic kitchen by-products, and natural grains are thoughtfully combined in balanced proportions to ensure clean and nourishing nutrition.

By minimizing the use of industrial feed, the chickens absorb nutrients more naturally while reducing unnecessary long-term health impacts.

Thanks to their nutrient-rich diet and healthy living environment, the eggs collected each day feature richer yolks, a naturally creamy flavor, and higher nutritional value. These eggs are also used in many dishes throughout the resort, from Western-style breakfasts and handcrafted pastries to comforting family meals.

When “Farm to Table” Is More Than Just a Trend

In recent years, “Farm to Table” has become a popular trend for its direct connection between farms and dining tables. However, at Ana Mandara Villas Dalat, the concept carries a deeper meaning. It represents transparency in ingredient sourcing, respect for the natural life cycle of food, and the understanding that the quality of a meal begins with the health of the soil, plants, and animals.

A delicious egg comes not only from a good breed of chicken, but also from a peaceful environment where the chickens can thrive every day. Likewise, a delightful breakfast is not simply about the recipe, but also about the reassurance that the ingredients have been cultivated with genuine care.

A Nature-Inspired Experience for Families

Le Jardin is also one of the favorite spaces for families staying at Ana Mandara Villas Dalat. Children have the opportunity to observe how animals are cared for, harvest fresh vegetables, and learn about the journey behind the ingredients that appear on the dining table each day. Through these hands-on experiences, children can gain a deeper appreciation for nature, the value of clean food, and the importance of living harmoniously with the environment.

Amid the pace of modern life, sometimes the simplest moments — watching chickens wander under the morning sun, listening to the rustling pine trees, or hand-picking a bundle of fresh greens — become the most unforgettable memories of a holiday journey.