Laab Alm Almabtrieb

The Laab Alm cattle drive

The Laab Alm Almabtrieb is the traditional cattle descent that takes place every September, bringing herds from the high-altitude pastures of the Laab Alm down to the valley and the village of Nova Ponente/Deutschnofen, in the heart of South Tyrol (Autonomous Province of Bolzano). The alpine hut is located just a few kilometers from the Nova Ponente plateau, near the Pietralba sanctuary, set in a landscape of forests and meadows overlooking the Eggental basin.

What is the Almabtrieb?

The Almabtrieb (often translated as "cattle drive" or "transhumance") marks the end of the summer grazing season: after months spent on mountain pastures, the cows are led back to the valley before the cold weather arrives. It is an ancient rite rooted in alpine agriculture, when bringing animals to shelter was a necessity for survival. Today, it has become a cultural celebration that honors the work of alpine farmers and the bond between the community and the mountains.

A festive parade

The most evocative moment is the parade of the festively decorated animals: if the summer passed without incident on the mountain, the cattle are adorned with flower garlands, branches, ribbons, and mirrors, while wearing large cowbells around their necks, the sound of which accompanies the entire descent. The herd travels along paths and pastures until it reaches the village, where it is welcomed by locals and visitors alike.

Atmosphere and gastronomy

• Parade of decorated cows from Laab Alm to Nova Ponente/Deutschnofen
• Tyrolean folk music and groups in traditional costumes (Tracht)
• South Tyrolean alpine specialties: dumplings (Knödel), Schmarrn, Strauben, alpine cheeses, and local products
• Authentic rural atmosphere of the Eggental, far from mass tourism

An authentic Eggental experience

Unlike the more famous and crowded Almabtrieb events in South Tyrol, the one at Laab Alm retains a modest and genuine character, tied to the life of the mountain hut and the community of Deutschnofen. It is the ideal opportunity to experience one of the most authentic traditions of the South Tyrolean Alps in a setting of high-altitude forests and meadows. The Laab Alm, open to hikers during the summer, is also a renowned destination for Tyrolean cuisine and walks along the plateau trails.