10.09.2026

Throughout the summer, the animals graze on the high pastures – where the grass is flavourful and the air is clear. When the days grow shorter and the first frost covers the meadows, it's time to return to the valley. The cattle drive is more than a logistical act: it is a festival of gratitude. Gratitude that the summer went well, that the animals stayed healthy, that the alpine pasture shared its gifts.

The cows are adorned with colourful wreaths, flowers and bells – a sign that the season has passed without misfortune. Farmers in traditional costume accompany their herds on the way down, while in the villages, people wait to welcome them. A moment when time seems to stand still.

In Villnöss, the cattle drive takes place against one of the most spectacular backdrops in the Dolomites. The decorated animals descend to Ranui, where the baroque church of St. Johann stands before the mighty Geisler peaks – an image that attracts photographers from around the world.

A small festival accompanies the arrival: music, South Tyrolean specialities and the warmth of the locals who share this day with their guests. Here you experience tradition not as a performance, but as the lived daily life of mountain farmers.

The animals from the Lüsen Alp – South Tyrol’s longest alpine pasture – also return to the valley. The traditional cattle drive down from Kreuzwiesen Alm on September 12 is part of the “Lissna Kirchta” (church fair) celebrations, making the return of the cattle from the mountain pastures to the village a special experience. The Lüsner Kirchtag is a traditional village festival taking place from September 12 to 13.

For two days, Lüsen transforms into a feast for the senses: parades with brass bands, stalls with Krapfen pastries, Speck and new wine, encounters between locals and guests. A moment of gratitude, community and anticipation of autumn.

The cattle drive is not a show for tourists – it is a genuine piece of South Tyrolean life. Those who are there feel the connection of the people with their land, their animals, their traditions. The ringing of the bells, the laughter of children, the first sip of new wine in the autumn sun.

Come along, let yourself be swept up and take a piece of this magic home with you. The cattle drive in the Odles Slow Dolomites is a celebration of slowness – and a reminder of what truly matters.

Save the dates

Cattle drive Villnöss:  September 12,  2026
Location: Ranui, with views of St. Johann and the Geisler peaks

Cattle drive & Church Fair Lüsen: September 12 - 13, 2026
Location: Lüsen village, as part of the Lüsner Kirchtig