Homecoming of livestock in South Tyrol

In summer, South Tyrol’s sheep, cows and goats live on the idyllic mountain pastures. Here, the air is fresh, the grass is refined with Alpine herbs and the night is full of stars. In autumn, however, they return to the warm stable down in the valley.

The homecoming of livestock in autumn is celebrated all over South Tyrol when summer comes to an end. The best cows are decorated with elaborate wreaths, the healthy calves are crowned with flowers and the sheep are marked with different colours. The animals are welcomed with traditional sounds, farmers’ markets, folk festivals and applause down in the valley and get back to their winter home.

The transhumances in South Tyrol take place between the middle of September and the end of October. For instance, the homecoming of livestock in Terenten, organised during the “Terner Schmelzpfandl” event, the transhumance in Meransen which is one of the biggest in South Tyrol and the transhumance in Schnals near Meran and in Kematen in Ahrntal.

Other appointments for homecomings of livestock in South Tyrol can be found in our event calendar.

Images

Simmental cows during thecuttle drive
Simmental cows during thecuttle drive

The cows of Simmental breed are among the most beautiful!

Internet Consulting - Isabel Gräber
Return of the cattle in Reschen/Resia
Return of the cattle in Reschen/Resia

Once returned to the valley the animals are returned to their rightful owners.

Ferienregion Reschenpass
Return of the cattle in Reschen/Resia
Return of the cattle in Reschen/Resia

The return of the cattle is an ancient tradition still alive today and cause for great celebration.

Ferienregion Reschenpass
Cattle drive
Cattle drive

The largest bell get always to the most beautiful cow that will surely be proud to carry it!

Internet Consulting - Isabel Gräber
Cattle drive
Cattle drive

From the mountain do not return only cows but also goats, sheep, horses, ponies and donkeys.

Internet Consulting - Isabel Gräber
Cattle drive
Cattle drive

Cows come home in shape and ready for winter!

Internet Consulting - Isabel Gräber
Cattle drive in South Tyrol
Cattle drive in South Tyrol

Even the calves are festively decorated!

Internet Consulting - Isabel Gräber
Return of the cattle
Return of the cattle

The farmers are always very proud of their cows!

Internet Consulting - Isabel Gräber

Traditions

Selected accommodations in South Tyrol

Blumenpension Weinberg - Riffian in Passeiertal
  • Surrounded by orchards and vineyards
  • In-house bar
  • Panoramic sun terrace and swimming pool
  • Starting point for many excursions to Merano and the surrounding area
  • Electric car charging station
from 95.00 € per night
Stammhaus Vetterer - Lana in Meran and environs
  • Idyllic location surrounded by orchards
  • Large apartments with 3 bedrooms
  • Sunbathing lawn with outdoor pool
  • Farm produce & breakfast basket
  • Playground & animals
from 160.00 € per night
Steinerhof - Hafling in Meran and environs
  • Rooms & apartments with breakfast
  • Large lawn with barbecue
  • Fresh bread service
  • Possibility of helping with farm work
  • Hiking, riding, skiing and tennis in the surrounding area
from 43.00 € per night
Hotel Innerhofer - Gais at Mt. Kronplatz
  • Quiet location in the Kronplatz Dolomites region
  • Rooms, suites & apartments
  • Spa & wellness area
  • Regional cuisine
  • Summer & winter activities
from 87.00 € per night
Service