Almabtrieb in Schlinig

The autumn transhumance of Slingia

The Almabtrieb in Schlinig is one of the most genuine rural festivals in Upper Vinschgau (Obervinschgau). It takes place in the tiny valley of Slingia (Schlinig), part of the municipality of Mals (Malles Venosta), in the province of Bolzano, in the heart of Trentino-South Tyrol. Every late summer, as temperatures drop at higher altitudes, the livestock that spent the warmer months on high mountain pastures is driven back down to the valley: this is the ancient ritual of transhumance, known here by its German name, Almabtrieb.

A festive cattle procession

The most anticipated moment is the arrival of the herds. The finest dairy cows are adorned with flowers, conifer branches, ribbons, and large cowbells, as a sign of recognition for the season spent on the mountain pasture. The procession descends from the alpine hut to the valley floor, welcomed by the applause of residents and visitors. Decorating the animals is not just folklore: it is a gesture of gratitude for an alpine summer that concluded without incident, with both men and beasts returning safely to the valley.

Celebration, gastronomy, and tradition

Surrounding the arrival of the livestock, the Slingia community organizes a rural festival featuring South Tyrolean culinary specialties, traditional desserts, and local drinks. The gathering point is the Langlaufzentrum in Schlinig, the valley's cross-country skiing center, which welcomes Nordic skiers in winter and becomes the heart of the festivities on this occasion. It is a family-friendly event, immersed in an untouched alpine landscape where the German-speaking culture of South Tyrol and the rural traditions of the Vinschgau valley coexist.

Where and when

Slingia can be reached from Mals by traveling up the side valley of the same name. The Almabtrieb is traditionally held in September, marking the end of the alpine grazing season, and is organized by the Ferienregion Obervinschgau tourist association. It is one of the many transhumance events that enliven the South Tyrolean autumn, offering a close-up look at a centuries-old custom of the Vinschgau mountains.