Schafabtrieb Stilfs (Lausboden)

A pastoral ritual at the foot of the Ortler

The Schafabtrieb in Stelvio (Stilfs) is the festival celebrating the autumn descent of the sheep, one of the most authentic events in the farming tradition of the Upper Vinschgau Valley, in the Province of Bolzano (South Tyrol), in the heart of the Trentino-Alto Adige region. After grazing all summer on the high-altitude alpine pastures overlooking the Stelvio National Park, at the foot of the Ortler massif, the flocks are led back to the valley. The meeting point is the Lausboden, the vast plateau above the village of Stilfs, where the event attracts farmers, families, and visitors alike.

Transhumance, a living alpine heritage

Transhumance—the seasonal movement of livestock between the valley and mountain pastures—is a centuries-old practice recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. Throughout South Tyrol, between late summer and early autumn, the so-called Schafabtriebe and Almabtriebe mark the return of the animals to their valley stables. In Stelvio, this moment becomes a true village festival, an expression of a mountain economy still tied to sheep farming and the stewardship of the alpine landscape.

How the day unfolds

In the morning, usually at the break of dawn, the flock reaches the Lausboden after descending from the alpine pastures. The arrival of the sheep is followed by the traditional shearing, the highlight of the event and an opportunity to observe an ancient craft up close. Throughout the day, you will find:

• Food and drinks provided by the organizing committee;
• The shearing of the sheep and sorting of the livestock;
• A convivial and family-friendly atmosphere, immersed in the high-mountain landscape of the Vinschgau Valley.

Organization

The event is organized by the Schafzuchtverein Stilfs (Stelvio Sheep Breeders Association), which invites the community every year to participate in the sheep drive on the Lausboden. Given the nature of the event, held outdoors and at altitude, registration is generally required to participate; for up-to-date information on dates and procedures, it is advisable to contact the association or the Vinschgau Valley tourist offices.

Why it is worth visiting

Those visiting Stelvio during the Schafabtrieb witness an authentic slice of South Tyrolean alpine culture, far from mass tourism. It is an experience that combines nature, pastoral tradition, and conviviality in one of the wildest and most fascinating corners of Trentino-Alto Adige, at the foot of the Ortler and just a stone's throw from the famous Stelvio Pass.