La Désarpa di Valtournenche

The ritual of Aosta Valley transhumance

La Désarpa — in Aosta Valley Patois Dézarpa — is one of the most cherished traditions of the Alps: it marks the return of the herds from the high-altitude pastures to the valley floor at the end of summer. In Valtournenche, at the foot of the Matterhorn, this moment turns into a grand village festival that attracts locals, hikers, and tourists.

The parade of the Queens

The absolute stars are the Aosta Valley red-pied cows, which parade adorned with flowers, colorful ribbons, and cowbells. Breeders proudly present their animals: among them are the Queen of the Horns (distinguished by red) and the Queen of the Milk (in white), coveted titles that reward the strongest and most productive animals. Alpine guides, ski instructors, soldiers, associations, and locals in traditional costume also participate in the procession.

A day of taste and folklore

The route starts from the center of Valtournenche and reaches the hamlet of Maën, where the festival continues with the traditional Aosta Valley lunch, the spectacular Bataille des Chèvres (a non-violent goat fight, related to the famous Batailles de Reines), and an afternoon dance. It's a perfect opportunity to discover the rural identity of the Aosta Valley and its typical products.