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Transhumance in the Venosta Valley

An ancient tradition of colours and culture

The traditional cattle drive, also known as the Transhumance, has always been a significant highlight in the farming cycle of the Venosta Valley. This centuries-old ritual transforms the mountain landscape into a colourful festival where nature and rural culture merge in harmony.

As summer draws to a close, the cows are artfully adorned with lovingly designed wreaths, the calves shine in fresh flower arrangements and the sheep wear colourful markings. This procession is a feast for the senses and a sign of the farmers' gratitude for a successful grazing season. The cattle drive in the Venosta Valley is not only a visual delight, but also a culinary experience. Visitors can look forward to peasant fare that reflects the regional flavours and the quality of the local products. The "Goasslschnöller" create a great atmosphere with their impressive performance, accompanied by traditional folk music. In addition to the cattle drive, visitors can also experience the "Schafschoad", the traditional shearing of sheep, which focuses on handicraft skills and local traditions.
Transhumanz - UNESCO's intangible cultural heritage
The autumn cattle drive "Transhumanz" in the Schnalstal Valley is an ancient tradition that is still practiced today and is part of UNESCO's intangible cultural heritage.

This custom, also known as transhumance, is unique because it is the only sheep drive in the world that crosses both a glacier and an international border.

Every June, shepherds with three to four thousand sheep move from the villages of Vernagt/Vernago and Kurzras/Maso Corto in the Schnalstal Valley, crossing the Nieder- and Hochjoch passes to reach the summer pastures in Austria's Ötztal Valley near Vent. In September, they return to the Schnalstal Valley. During this journey, people and animals cover up to 44 kilometers in two days, with parts of the route traversing snowfields and rocky gullies.
Autumn cattle drive events
From Langtaufers Valley to Schnalstal Valley: autumn cattle drives near your accommodation
At the end of the alpine summer, the herds return from the pastures to their stalls and are warmly welcomed in many places. Transhumance between mid-August and mid-October has always been an important time in the farming year.
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