Alpine cattle ascents and descents in the Bern Region

For more than 350 years, the traditional Schafscheid, a sheep descent from the alpine pastures, has taken place in Riffenmatt near Guggisberg in Gantrisch Nature Park on the first Thursday in September. From around 8 am, the flocks return from their summer pastures and make their way into the village, where the sheep are reunited with their owners. Throughout the day, a lively village market invites visitors to discover regional specialities, sheep wool products such as duvets, jumpers and sheepskins, as well as various attractions. The festivities continue until 11 pm.

The “Gstaad Züglete” is one of the most beautiful traditions in the Bernese Oberland. In September, local farmers lead their lovingly decorated cows down from the mountains into the village of Gstaad. The opening is performed by the Trychler – participants who ring large traditional metal cowbells to keep Alpine customs alive. Afterwards, the colourful parade of cows makes its way through Gstaad’s promenade. You can then enjoy a lively village festival with market stalls, regional specialities, music and a varied family programme, creating unforgettable moments in Gstaad.

The alpine ascent and descent on the Engstligenalp above Adelboden are among Switzerland’s most impressive traditions. On 11 September 2026, the alpine summer comes to an end as 500 cows make their way down from the high plateau to Adelboden along steep, narrow mountain paths. Please note: The hiking trail is closed during the alpine descent. The cable car starts operating from 6 a.m. Coffee, croissants and a hearty traditional alpine breakfast are served at the mountain hotel. Tip: Combine the alpine descent with a visit to the Engstligen Falls.

The Alpine cattle descent in St. Stephan, located between Zweisimmen and Lenk, is one of the region’s most authentic alpine traditions. Every September, more than 100 beautifully decorated animals return to the village of St. Stephan, accompanied by a colourful festival atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy traditional live music, browse local market stalls and taste regional specialities. The annual celebration takes place on the airfield in St. Stephan and attracts guests from near and far who want to experience Swiss alpine culture up close.

The Alpabzug Hofstetten invites you to experience authentic Bernese tradition by the scenic Lake Brienz. Each September, beautifully decorated cows and goats make their way from Gummenalp through Hofstetten, passing the Trauffer World of Experiences and continuing to the Ballenberg Swiss Open-Air Museum. Along the route, you can enjoy festive atmosphere, live music, and regional delicacies. At the festival grounds, the animals can be admired up close, children can have fun on the bouncy castle and in the evening a lively party with DJ sets the mood. An unforgettable highlight in the Bernese Oberland.

The Alpine cattle descent in Innertkirchen is both a traditional parade and a lively village festival! When the lovingly decorated cows return from the Gental and Engstlen Alps to the village of Innertkirchen, their arrival is celebrated with market stalls, regional delicacies and musical entertainment. Children can enjoy a varied programme of their own. In the evening, the festivities continue in the big tent with music, dancing and a cheerful atmosphere that creates unforgettable moments.

Did you know that a cattle descent also takes place right through the heart of Bern? During the traditional Sichlete harvest festival, beautifully decorated cows set off from the Nationales Pferdezentrum at 1:30 pm and make their way through Bern’s Old Town to Federal Square, arriving at around 2:00 pm. The festival also features bell ringers, alphorn music, flag throwing, Schwyzerörgeli music, cheese-making demonstrations and regional specialities. At 4:50 pm, the cows follow the same route back to the Nationales Pferdezentrum.

Experience the alpine descent in the heart of Eggiwil in the Emmental: around 40 festively decorated animals make their way through the village, accompanied by alphorn music and traditional folk entertainment. At the same time, the Eggiwil autumn market invites visitors to browse and enjoy its varied stalls. The alpine descent is especially popular with locals and is celebrated in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. After a short break, the herd continues towards Geissschwand. Like all alpine ascents and descents, this event is free of charge.

The Alpine cattle descent marks the end of the approximately four-month summer grazing season in the mountains, when the herds return to the valley. In Plaffeien, more than 1,000 festively decorated animals make their way through the village, accompanied by around 20 herding families who are celebrated for their work throughout the Alpine summer. The elaborate grooming and decorating of the animals is as much a part of the tradition as the warm welcome from the applauding crowds. Each year, the event attracts more than 10,000 visitors. A market with regional products, food and drink and entertainment rounds off the festivities.

The two-day Lenk Alpine Festival marks the end of the cattle descent season. The alpine cattle descent takes place on Saturday, when the herdsmen proudly present their lovingly flower-decorated cows, adorned with traditional bells, during hourly processions. From 25 cows, you can choose the “Miss Lenk”. Swiss traditions, folklore and a farmers’ market with local specialities make the festival a truly special experience.