Cattle Homecoming / Almabtrieb Langalm and Flodige Alm

A farming tradition of the Dolomites

The Almabtrieb — the traditional cattle homecoming from alpine pastures — is one of the most authentic autumn rituals in the Upper Puster Valley. In Dobbiaco/Toblach, a municipality in the Autonomous Province of Bolzano in Trentino-Alto Adige, the descent involves the herds from the Langalm and Flodige Alm mountain pastures, which return to the valley after a summer spent grazing at high altitudes.

When the alpine grazing season draws to a close, the cows are led back to the village in a long procession. The most deserving animals — those that produced the most milk during the summer — lead the herd, decorated with large flower crowns, ribbons, and bells. It is a gesture of gratitude toward the animals and, according to tradition, toward the heavens for protecting the herds from accidents and bad weather throughout the season.

The procession through Dobbiaco

The approximately 200 cows arrive in town around 1:00 PM, entering from Via Tiefen; they continue along Via Conte Künigl in the town center, pass in front of the Parish Church Square, and take Via Gustav Mahler until they reach the Troger farm, in the direction of Santa Maria. The herd is accompanied by riders, farmers with traditional whips, and vintage tractors, in a festive atmosphere that involves the entire town.

Gastronomy and celebration

The day concludes at the Troger farm with a small party featuring music and dancing. Along the route and at the refreshment points, there is no shortage of local farming culinary specialties: typical dishes from the Puster Valley and local cheeses, including the famous Stanga di Dobbiaco (Toblacher Stangenkäse), recognized as a traditional Italian agri-food product.

The Dobbiaco Almabtrieb is part of the Autumn³Mountain (Herbst³Zeit) calendar, the festival celebrating autumn in the Three Peaks and Upper Puster Valley region. For those visiting the Dolomites during this period, witnessing the cattle homecoming is a unique opportunity to experience alpine culture up close and the deep bond between mountain communities and their pastures.