Westendorf Almabtrieb

Westendorf Almabtrieb 2022 : Took place – Saturday 17th September.

The crowning glory of a beautiful summer in Westendorf is the traditional return of the cattle to the village from the high, mountain pastures.
The „Almabtrieb“ takes place every year from 10:00h. There has already been a dusting of snow on the peaks above 2000 metres (6562 ft). The cows are accompanied by their new calves, born on the high mountain pastures during the summer.

This annual tradition is an important regional celebration that goes right to the heart of the Tirolean traditional way of life. Farmers, their wives and families will spend hours preparing adornments of flowers and colourful handmade decorations ready to festoon the cattle along with each animal’s individual cow-bell. The sight and moving sounds of this ancient festival draw visitors to Westendorf from many countries. „The tradition goes back many centuries“, says Silvia Holaus, owner of the popular village restaurant „Reiterstüberl“ in the Bichlinger Straße. „If, sadly, a farming family has suffered a bereavement whilst the cattle have been away for the summer months, their herd will be decked out in black head-dresses, out of respect.“

The festival also provides culinary delights at the „Hoamfahrerfestl“ organised by farming families and clubs (including the young farmers) held in the meadow next to the Klausnerhof.

Reiterstüberl Restaurant…

 

CD 2022