Cattle drive in Berchtesgaden

When summer comes to an end

Around St. Michael’s Day on September 29, you can experience the traditional Almabtrieb in Berchtesgaden and the surrounding area. This marks the end of alpine summer in the Berchtesgaden mountains.

Weeks in advance, starting on August 24—St. Bartholomew’s Day—alpine farmers begin crafting the animals’ elaborate headdresses by hand: the Fuikln and Latschenboschen. Using dyed wood shavings, they shape hundreds of small rosettes and stars, some adorned with delicate touches of gold. These are then woven into the tops of young spruce or larch trees, carefully bound into ornate crowns.

Cattle drive from Stoißer Alm

Almabtrieb from Stoißer Alm in the Rupertiwinkel region is a major event that draws crowds of spectators each year. You can experience it every September.

Alpine summer in Berchtesgaden

Alpine pastures
Nowhere else in Bavaria will you find as many actively managed alpine pastures as in Berchtesgaden. Discover rustic huts, scenic hiking trails, and mountain bike routes that turn these traditional alpine landscapes into unforgettable destinations.
Cattle drive across Lake Königssee
During the traditional Almabtrieb across Lake Königssee, decorated cattle and farmers cross the lake by boat as Alpine customs and mountain heritage come to life.
Staying safe around cows on alpine pastures
Learn how to behave around cows on alpine pastures in Berchtesgaden and enjoy safe, respectful hiking experiences across Alpine meadows and grazing areas.
Fuikln and Latschenboschen
Traditional Fuikln and Latschenboschen made for Almabtrieb, the traditional cattle drive back to the valley, reflect the living Alpine heritage of Berchtesgaden, shaped by mountain culture, craftsmanship, and Bavarian customs.