Traditional Völs Almabtrieb Cattle Drive and Festival

The traditional cattle drive of Völs am Schlern

The Völs Almabtrieb is one of the most cherished autumn events in Völs am Schlern (Fiè allo Sciliar), a village in the Seiser Alm region of the Autonomous Province of Bolzano, in Trentino-Alto Adige. It marks the traditional transhumance, the annual ritual where livestock is brought down from mountain pastures at the end of the summer season, symbolically heralding the arrival of the colder months.

From Tuff Alm to the village

In the morning, around 10:00 AM, the cattle are prepared at the Tuff Alm: approximately 120 animals are decorated according to South Tyrolean custom with flower crowns, branches, bells, and religious images. From there, the procession descends toward the village, accompanied by the rhythmic sound of cowbells, reaching Völs between 11:30 AM and 12:00 PM. It is a captivating spectacle that draws both locals and visitors to the streets of the town center.

The blessing and the festival in the square

At 1:00 PM, at the Festplatz (the festival square on the Peterbühel), the blessing of the animals takes place, followed by the folk festival that gives the event its name. The celebration is brought to life by the Goaslschnöller (traditional whip crackers) and folk dance groups performing the Schuhplattler, the iconic Tyrolean dance, all set to live music.

South Tyrolean flavors and traditions

The culinary experience, prepared by the local women, is a highlight: visitors can enjoy traditional krapfen and Tirtlen, along with other South Tyrolean farm-style delicacies and seasonal drinks. The atmosphere is that of a genuine mountain village festival, where rural tradition, community, and hospitality come together.

A Dolomite ritual

The Völs cattle drive is part of the grand Almabtrieb tradition of the Seiser Alm (Alpe di Siusi) area, a living cultural heritage of the Dolomites. For visitors, it offers an authentic opportunity to discover the deep bond between Alpine communities and the mountains, set against a backdrop of rare beauty at the foot of the Schlern.