Almabtrieb in Rodeneck (Kiahkemma)

The Kiahkemma of Rodeneck

In the heart of the Isarco Valley, the small municipality of Rodeneck, nestled at an altitude of about 850 meters on the sunny plateau of the Gitschberg Jochtal holiday area, celebrates one of the most cherished rites of South Tyrolean alpine culture every autumn: the Almabtrieb, known in the local dialect as Kiahkemma (literally, the return of the cows). After a full summer spent on the high-altitude pastures of the Rodenecker Alm, the livestock descends to the valley in a true celebration of gratitude and community.

One of the most authentic in South Tyrol

Unlike large-scale tourist cattle drives, the Kiahkemma in Rodeneck is among the smallest and most intimate in all of South Tyrol, and for this very reason, one of the most genuine. The cows, adorned with flower crowns, branches, and bells, are led along the route to the Spritzenhütte, near the hamlet of San Benedetto/Nauders (Vill). The colorful procession of animals is expected in the village around noon and is the most exciting moment of the day.

Music, dance, and traditions

The festival accompanying the cattle descent is a concentration of Tyrolean folklore. Musical entertainment is provided by the Woazgruiba group, while traditional dancers from the Ronegga Schuichplattla perform the acrobatic Schuhplattler, the slap-dance typical of the alpine valleys. There is no shortage of Goaslkrocha, who crack their long whips according to an ancient custom, and the Preismelken milking competition, which tests the skill and speed of the participants.

Farm flavors

Gastronomic hospitality is provided by the Bauernjugend (the young farmers) and the Bäuerinnen (the farm women) of Rodeneck, who serve typical local specialties along with locally produced schnapps and small leavened sweets called Minggelen, offered along the route. It is the ideal opportunity to discover the genuine flavors of the Isarco Valley's farmhouse cuisine.

An event in the heart of the Dolomites

The Kiahkemma of Rodeneck is part of the long tradition of South Tyrolean Almabtrieb, which mark the return of men and animals from the alpine pastures at the end of summer. Immersed in a landscape of meadows, forests, and ancient farmsteads, with the backdrop of Rodeneck Castle (Schloss Rodenegg), the event offers visitors and families an authentic dive into the rural culture of Trentino-South Tyrol, where mountain customs are still alive and passed down from generation to generation.