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Transhumance in the Venosta Valley

An ancient tradition of colours and culture

The traditional cattle drive, also known as the Transhumance, has always been a significant highlight in the farming cycle of the Venosta Valley. This centuries-old ritual transforms the mountain landscape into a colourful festival where nature and rural culture merge in harmony.

As summer draws to a close, the cows are artfully adorned with lovingly designed wreaths, the calves shine in fresh flower arrangements and the sheep wear colourful markings. This procession is a feast for the senses and a sign of the farmers' gratitude for a successful grazing season. The cattle drive in the Venosta Valley is not only a visual delight, but also a culinary experience. Visitors can look forward to peasant fare that reflects the regional flavours and the quality of the local products. The "Goasslschnöller" create a great atmosphere with their impressive performance, accompanied by traditional folk music.

In addition to the cattle drive, visitors can also experience the "Schafschoad", the traditional shearing of sheep, which focuses on handicraft skills and local traditions.
Transhumanz - UNESCO's intangible cultural heritage
Autumn cattle drive events
From Prad am Stilfserjoch to Schnalstal valley: autumn cattle drives near your accommodation
At the end of the alpine summer, the herds return from the pastures to their stalls and are warmly welcomed in many places. Transhumance between mid-August and mid-October has always been an important time in the farming year.
 
 
 
Sheep herding in Vernago
Handicrafts/customs
Up to 2,200 sheep and 300 goats set off from the Niedertal Alm Mountain hut in Vent valley (A) in the early morning, moving upwards through high-Alpine terrain (not dangerous) to Giogo ...
 
Saturday 9/13/2025
Schnalstal Valley
Sheep herding in Stelvio
Handicrafts/customs
The Stelvio Sheep Breeders' Association invites you to the sheep herding festival in Stelvio on Saturday, September 20th, 2025, at the Lausböden in Stelvio. The sheep will arrive at the Lausboden at ...
 
Saturday 9/20/2025
Stelvio
Sheep herding in Trafoi
Handicrafts/customs
The Ortler-Trafoi Sheep Breeders' Association invites you to the traditional Schofschoad (sheep herding) in Trafoi on September 7th and 21st, 2025, starting at 10 a.m. at the Untere Tartscher Alm in ...
 
Sunday 9/21/2025
Trafoi
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