Alpine cattle drives held across Germany and Austria

Traditional cattle drives, known as Viehscheid or Almabtrieb, are taking place across the Alpine regions of Germany and Austria. These seasonal events mark the return of livestock from summer pastures to the valleys.

In Germany, major celebrations include the Gunzesried Viehscheid, featuring approximately 1,600 animals from 19 Alpine pastures, and the Obermaiselstein event, which expects over 1,300 animals. In Oberstaufen, approximately 1,400 animals returned to the valley. During a visit to Oberstaufen, Bavarian Agriculture Minister Michaela Kaniber emphasized continued support for mountain farmers, noting that the state will not cut funding for the Bavarian Mountain Farmer Program despite challenges like drought and heat.

In Austria, festivities are occurring in the Montafon and Bregenzerwald regions, including St. Gallenkirch, Tschagguns, Schwarzenberg, and Warth. Additionally, the village of Reith im Alpbachtal in Tyrol has scheduled its Almabtrieb for two Saturdays in September 2026, featuring farmers' markets and traditional music.