Almabtrieb in Pfalzen

The descent of the herds in Falzes/Pfalzen

The Almabtrieb in Pfalzen is the autumn event that draws locals and visitors alike to witness one of the most evocative rituals of South Tyrolean Alpine culture: the transhumance, or the descent of livestock from high-altitude pastures (the Almen) to the valley stables. We are in Falzes/Pfalzen, a municipality in the Puster Valley, in the Autonomous Province of Bolzano, within the Plan de Corones/Kronplatz area, just northwest of Brunico.

An ancient ritual marking the end of the alpine summer

At the end of the grazing season, when the first frosts herald the arrival of winter, farmers lead their cows, calves, and flocks back down to the valley. If the summer in the alpine dairy has passed without incident, the animals are festively adorned: crowns of flowers and conifer branches, large cowbells, small mirrors, and colorful ribbons transform the herd into a festive procession that parades through the village. It is a gesture of thanksgiving and a moment of joy shared by the entire community.

Almabtrieb and Kirchtag together

In Falzes, the Almabtrieb traditionally takes place on the same October weekend as the Kirchtag, the village's religious patronal feast. The two events merge into one great autumn celebration, featuring Tyrolean folk music, brass bands, groups in traditional costumes (Tracht), food stalls, and the convivial atmosphere typical of South Tyrolean villages. It is the perfect opportunity to taste South Tyrolean culinary specialties and experience customs and traditions still deeply rooted in the Puster Valley.

An authentic mountain experience

More than just a folkloric event, the Almabtrieb represents a living heritage of the German-speaking farming tradition of South Tyrol. Attending it means connecting with an Alpine world defined by hard work, seasonality, and respect for nature, set against a landscape that stretches from the Dolomites to the Zillertal Alps. Falzes, nestled on a sunny plateau, also offers numerous trails and scenic viewpoints to explore during the autumn season.