Cow parade and dairy shows near Interlaken, Zermatt in spring
Tadej is planning a trip to Switzerland and wants to know when cows go to the pastures in spring, particularly in the Lauterbrunnen Valley. He’s eager to see large herds grazing and visit a modern Swiss farm that keeps the Brown breed, but needs advice on where to find such experiences during his visit.
- The Alpaufzug (cattle ascent) usually occurs between May and June, so Tadej should plan to visit during this time to see the cows going to pastures.
- Check for local spring or summer festivals in the Jungfrau region, which may feature cattle shows and traditional Swiss celebrations.
- Since he’s interested in observing cows from a distance, he should consider hiking in areas known for alpine pastures around Lauterbrunnen and Zermatt.
AI-generated summary-
Dear Friends,
I am curious to know when do cows go to the pastures in spring. I am aware of the traditional cow parades in September-October when they return from the alpine pastures to the valleys, but I haven’t found any similar events marking their journey to the pastures in spring.
Cows have been my favorite animals since birth, and as someone educated in animal sciences, I am eager to gain some firsthand experience with them during my visit to Switzerland.
I plan to visit the Lauterbrunnen Valley (Gimmelwald and Grindelwald), as I’ve heard there are many cows in the region. I would love to know where I could see large herds of cows grazing or even hike through such alpine pastures. (P.S. I would only observe the cows from a distance, as I am aware of the rules regarding approaching them.) I will primarily be in the areas around Zermatt, Interlaken, and Lucerne—mainly in southern, central, and eastern Switzerland.
Additionally, I would love to visit a renowned and modern Swiss farm, preferably one that keeps the original native Swiss Brown breed.
I have heard of La Maison du Gruyère cheese dairy, but it is too far from my planned route. Instead, I will visit Emmentaler Schaukaserei. The Kabier farm also seemed like an interesting choice, as they offer farm visits and interaction with the animals, but unfortunately, they only organize group tours. Do you have any similar recommendations?
I would greatly appreciate any tips and suggestions!
Thank you in advance for your response.
Best regards,
Tadej
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Hi Tadej,
Welcome to MySwissAlps.
The Alpaufzug (cattle ascent) usually takes place between May and June depending on the region. This seasonal custom sees farmers guide the cattle up the mountains to graze in alpine pastures and stay there for up 100 days until mid September or early October. In Lauterbrunnen, this usually takes place around June. However this is usually not widely celebrated like the Alpabfahrt (cattle descent) at the end of summer.
There are cattle shows and cow parades at some spring or summer festivals in the Jungfrau region. This usually takes place between June and August. In June there is a Mountain Spring Festival on Männlichen (https://www.myswissalps.com/activity/mannlichen/) near Wengen. Not sure there will be cows on show but you’ll definitely get to experience Swiss music and tradition there.
Regards,
Anna
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