In autumn, a festively decorated herd makes its way from the Alpe di Siusi/Seiser Alm back down to the valley. Experience this colourful tradition with local specialities and folk music.


Flowers, folklore, and summer finale on the mountains

How do you know that summer is slowly drawing to a close? In some places it shows in the shorter days, the cooler air, and the first brown leaves. Around the Alpe di Siusi/Seiser Alm, by contrast, the mountain summer takes its leave with the ringing of cowbells, brass music, and culinary specialities.
On Saturday, 3 October, cattle, horses, goats, and sheep return to the valley after their summer on the Alpe di Siusi/Seiser Alm. From 10.30 a.m., the first festively decorated animals arrive in Compatsch as part of the traditional “Almabtrieb”, the ceremonial descent from the high pastures. Around midday, the colourful procession moves on towards Kastelruth. So that you can experience this special tradition at first hand, the Alpe di Siusi/Seiser Alm cable car is offering the return trip on that day at a special price of 16.00 euros.



From flower crowns to traditional costume
As befits the occasion, animals and people alike dress up for the “Almabtrieb”. The livestock wear elaborately woven crowns of natural materials, flowers, and brightly coloured ribbons, with bells swinging from their necks. The finest animal in the herd is given the largest and most splendid headdress and leads the procession as the “Kranzkuh”, the garlanded lead cow.
The farmers, too, put on their finest for the occasion and turn out in traditional dress: Lederhosen, Dirndl dresses, and richly decorated hats set the tone. So it’s not only the cattle that catch the eye during the cattle drive.


A fitting programme of events
Sending the summer off in style calls for a fitting programme of events. From 10 a.m., the procession in Compatsch is accompanied by live commentary. The alphorn players from Kaltern, the Kastelruth brass band, and the folk group Schellrodelmusig then provide the musical accompaniment.
In Kastelruth, the Garner Schuhplattler entertain visitors with traditional slap dances, while the Goaßlschnalzer crack their whips loud enough to be heard right across the village. Food and drink round off the traditional programme in both places.