Petra Top
The Allgäu, my home, is known for its breathtaking Alpine scenery and deeply rooted traditions. One of the most fascinating and colourful of these celebrations is the “Viehscheid,” an annual event in which decorated cows are driven down from the mountain pastures to mark the beginning of autumn. In this blog article, I would like to introduce you to this tradition.
The Tradition of the Viehscheid in the Allgäu
The cattle drive (another term for Almabtrieb) has a long tradition in the Allgäu. In spring, grazing cattle are driven to the high pastures of the Allgäu Alps, where they spend the summer feasting on lush, herb-rich grass until they are brought down again in autumn. If no harm befalls any animals in the herd during their summer stay in the alpine pastures, they are festively decorated with flowers, ribbons, and bells. On the day of the cattle drive, shepherds who have spent the summer with the animals on the alpine pastures move down into the valley with the decorated herd. There, the cattle are then “divorced” (Viehscheid) and handed over to their respective owners.
Preparations and Festive Atmosphere
Preparations for the Viehscheid begin early in the morning. The cows are adorned with flowers, colourful ribbons, and large bells that produce melodic sounds. Herds’ men don traditional Allgäu costumes and take pride in safely bringing their herds home.
The Spectacle of the Cattle Drive
As the sun rises, locals and tourists gather along the Viehscheid route to witness the spectacle. It is an impressive sight when the cows’ bells ring, and music fills the air as the herds descend into the valley. The vivid colours of traditional costumes and floral decorations create a picturesque backdrop.
Fellowship and Enjoyment
Once the animals have safely arrived in their home villages, the real celebration begins. There is music, dancing, and delicious Allgäu specialities. People gather in festival tents and beer gardens to savor local delicacies such as Käsespätzle, Weißwurst (white sausage), and, of course, beer.
Conclusion
The Viehscheid in the Allgäu is not only a traditional festival but also an occasion to celebrate and preserve regional culture. Despite the modern lifestyle, this custom remains an important tradition passed down from generation to generation. It offers an opportunity to experience Allgäu hospitality and its close connection to nature. If you are fortunate enough to visit the Allgäu in autumn, you should not miss this colourful spectacle. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget.
When is the Viehscheid in the Allgäu?
Viehscheid dates in the Allgäu 2025
9. September 2025
- Rettenberg-Kranzegg from 9 am
11. September 2025
- Bad Hindelang from 8.30 am
12. September 2025
- Balderschwang from 9 am
- Oberstaufen from 8.30 am
- Schöllang near Oberstdorf from 8.30 am
13. September 2025
- Pfronten from 8.00 am
- Oberstdorf from 9.00 am
- Grän-Haldensee from 11.00 am
- Jungholz from 9.00 am
14. September 2025
- Nesselwängle from 11.00 am
15. September 2025
- Viehmarkt Buchung (Halblech) from 09.30 am
- Unterjoch from 10.00 am
16. September 2025
- Nesselwang from 9.00 am
17. September 2025
- Gunzesried from 9.00 am
18. September 2025
- Wertach from 8.00 am
19. September 2025
- Riezlern (Kleinwalsertal) from 9.00 am
- Schattwald (Tannheimer Tal) from 11.00 am
- Thalkirchdorf (Oberstaufen) from 9.00 am
20. September 2025
- Immenstadt from 8.30 am
- Obermaiselstein from 9.00 am
- Missen-Wilhams from 9.30 am
- Pfronten-Röfleuten from 10.00 am
- Wengen from 10.00 am
- Zell bei Eisenberg-Zell from 10.00 am
- Tannheim from 11.00 am
27. September 2025
- Haldenwang from 10.00 am
03. October 2025
- Memhölz from 11.00 am
2 Comments
We are trying to attend one of these events in September 2026, in the dates of the 25-26. Do you have any insight into what events are scheduled for these dates?
Yes – if you are planning to visit around 25–26 September 2026, there will be Viehscheid (cattle drive) events taking place.
Currently, there is a Viehscheid scheduled for 26 September in Haldenwang and another one on the same day in Haslach (near Oy-Mittelberg). We would recommend the one in Haslach, as it offers the nicer scenery and a very authentic Allgäu atmosphere.
As not all 2026 dates have been fully confirmed yet, it is also possible that additional Viehscheide will be announced for these dates.
If you like, we can keep you updated as more dates are officially confirmed.