Alpine cattle processions
Gstaad Züglete
The traditional Züglete procession of local farmers and their cattle through Gstaad is always an experience. In between, visitors have the opportunity to enjoy the concert of the Menuhin Festival at the Kapälli Gstaad and stroll among the many market stalls.
Sheep allocation in “Vreneli’s village”
The Guggisberg “Schafscheid” event, which marks the return of the flocks from their summer pastures, has taken place on the first Thursday of September for more than 350 years. Early in the morning the streets fill with the returning sheep, which are then herded into pens and handed back to their owners. Sheeps wool products such as duvets, jumpers, sheepskins and many other goods are available to buy at the village market that is held throughout the day.
Alpine cattle ascent and descent Engstligenalp
The impressive Alpine ascent takes place at the end of June, when the cows walk on narrow rock paths up to the Engstligenalp. The Alpabzug procession of cattle back down to the valley is scheduled for early September. On the day of the procession itself, the gondola operates every twenty minutes from 6.10 a.m. onwards.
Alpine cattle descent St. Stephan
In September, more than 100 animals return to the valley. Musical entertainment, market stalls and refreshments are all provided. The annual festival is held on the airfield in St. Stephan.
Alp Gental cattle descent
An Alpine cattle descent and village festival in one: the return of the cows from the Gental valley is celebrated in Innertkirchen with market stalls, musical entertainment and a children’s programme.
Suldtal cattle drive
The Suldtal is considered a hidden gem for animal and plant spotting. Well fed after a long summer on the high Alpine pastures, the cows and goats return to the valley groomed and decorated and accompanied by lots of children in traditional dress. Sample a variety of local cheese and meat specialities at the Alpine market and listen to alphorn music as you take in the wonderful atmosphere and setting amid the majestic nature of the Suldtal.
40 to 50 animals are expected in the village of Eggiwil. After a short break they continue in the direction of Geissschwand. At the same time, the autumn market of Eggiwil takes place, offering a wide variety of regional products from Emmental.
