Crowds of all ages gather in the valley, tourists mingling with locals as they celebrate this unique event - the homecoming of the animals, as well as thousands of Alpine herdsmen and dairymen who have spent their time in the highlands with the herds.
On the day of the grand cattle drive, stalls are set up in the street, selling all sorts of authentic Tyrolean specialties and refreshments. Brass bands are out in force as well and the streets become full of people in traditional Tyrolean lederhosen and dirndl costumes. A perfect opportunity to enjoy authentic Tyrolean customs!
Adding to the celebratory mood are stalls set up along the streets selling Tyrolean specialties and refreshments. The festival also features people dressed in traditional Tyrolean lederhosen and dirndl costumes, further emphasizing the region's rich cultural heritage.
The festival occurs in various locations, including Mayrhofen in the Zillertal Valley, where cows from areas like Zillergrund, Stilluptal, Tux, and Ginzling are brought down from the mountains. The event is not just a local celebration but also a significant tourist attraction, offering a unique experience of authentic Tyrolean customs and traditions.
The term 'Almabtrieb' combines 'alm' (high mountain pasture) and 'trieben' (to herd), symbolizing the herding of animals away from the mountains. This tradition, involving cows, sheep, horses, and goats, is known as 'vertical transhumance' and has been practiced since the Neolithic era. For example, pollen analysis from the University of Innsbruck indicates alpine pastures in the Ötztal were grazed over 6,000 years
Historically, high mountain pastures were utilized due to limited farming space in valleys and as a protective measure against marauding troops in the Middle Ages. The tradition of decorating the animals dates back to the 18th century, with the first reports from Tyrol. Interestingly, only selected animals were adorned, debunking the theory of these decorations being protective charms. If the summer saw any losses, the animals were driven home undecorated.
One notable festival is in Reith im Alpbachtal, known for its authentic folk festival atmosphere and a wide range of traditional Tyrolean dishes and crafts. Mayrhofen is another popular location, where herds from various valleys converge, each led by a decorated lead cow known as the Moarkuh.
Visiting an Almabtrieb festival is not just about watching the beautifully adorned animals; it's an immersion into Austria's rich cultural heritage, showcasing traditional music, local delicacies, and artisan crafts. It's an event that celebrates the close bond between the people, their livestock, and the alpine landscape, marking an important annual milestone in the rural communities of Austria.
Breathtaking! Nature Has Never Looked This Beautiful!
Check out some of the finest photos from National Geographic's 2017 'Nature Photographer of the Year' awards.
I Feel Like I’ve Traveled the World Thanks to These Photos
National Geographic's annual photography contest is nothing short of spectacular. Here are some of the amazing images entered that are sure to make you want to travel the world.
7 Gorgeous Dutch Parks We Recommend You Visit!
we have compiled a list of the top 7 national parks in Holland that should not be missed!
50 Fascinating International Borders From Around the World
It's fascinating to see what kind of borders there are between countries. Some just take a step, others would take an armed tank...
There is So Much Wildlife to See in the Amazon Forest
Let's visit one of the wildest places on earth, full of color and sound.
Australia is Just Full of Remarkable Places to See...
When visiting Australia, try to catch some of these terrific sights.
Touch Down in These Incredible Island Airports!
Here are some of the most fantastic island airports that you could be landing in on your next exotic vacation!
These 10 Super Island Cities Float Like Brilliant Boats
Some of the greatest cities in the world are actually like magnificent boats. They are islands of civilization and wonder floating in the world's seas.
Take a Romantic Stroll Through the French Gardens of Love...
The famous scenic Châteu de Villandry in central France is home to stunning ornamental gardens with some of the most romantic views and a beautiful love story behind it to boot.
I Would Be So Happy in One of These Beautiful Little Towns
When you get out of the big cities and start visiting the small ones, you realize you've missed some of the most beautiful places..
Vintage Photos Show What Life in Holland Was Like in 1890
These postcards of Holland in the late 1890s shed some light into what life was like back then.
Is This the Most Beautiful Place in Italy? We Think So!
Take a look at two breathtaking UNESCO sites in Tivoli, Italy: Hadrian's Villa and the Villa d'Este.
Poland's Castles Are Full of Medieval Mystery & Splendor
Poland, lying in the middle of Europe, has some of the most spectacular castles you've ever seen.
This Is Why Iceland Is a Country Like No Other
Iceland is a country full of interesting traditions and rich history - delve into this fascinating country with these 11 surprising facts!
This Dreamy Town in France Will Take Your Breath Away
This is one of France's most beautiful towns!
February Is a Gloomy Month, So Why Not Take a Vacation?
February isn't generally the most pleasant of months, so why not hop on a plane and go somewhere fun? These are the 10 best places to be in February.
Buffalo is Experiencing the CRAZIEST Winter This Time
Winter in Buffalo, New York, this season has been absolutely crazy.
These Photos of Machu Picchu Are Simply Stunning
Machu Picchu is one of the few places everybody wished to visit, and these gob-smacking pictures show just why.
Welcome to the Most Densely Populated Island on Earth
What happens when you cram 800 people in 13,000 square meters? Apparently, heaven on earth. Welcome to Santa Cruz del Islote...
The World's Best Underground Train Systems, Revealed
Today, let us take you on a ride on some of the most impressive metro systems in the world.
This Fantastic Tour of New York City Will Leave You in Awe
Ever wanted to visit New York City, but haven’t had the chance yet? This great video will whet your appetite until you get a chance to visit yourself!
Pearl of Southeast Asia: 5 Reasons You Need to Visit Burma
A comprehensive travel guide to Myanmar in Southeast Asia
I Bet You've Never Heard of These 20 Picturesque Towns
These 20 hidden towns of Europe are beautiful! Almost nobody knows about these stunning locations and I can't figure out why.
Discover the Ancient Italian City Where Time Stood Still
The city of Pompeii was destroyed by a volcano in 79 C.E., but much of it remains preserved, giving us a glimpse to the Roman times.
Stave Churches Are Among Norway's Most Precious Treasures
Throughout the middle ages, dozens of wooden churches were erected. Today many of them can still be found standing proud in beautiful Norwegian villages.
Let's Visit the 10 Most Beautiful Castles in France!
France is renowned for its many castles. With a very long and rich history, there are many structures still left from medieval times throughout this beautiful country, many of them still intact or rebuilt. Here are 10 of these stunning French castle
Visit the Most Remote Inhabited Islands on Earth!
These islands are hundreds, if not thousands of miles, from civilization. Take a look at 9 of the world's most remote inhabited islands.
12 Must-See Sights in the Galicia, Spain
Today we will reveal to you what awaits you there and which 12 places should not be missed for those visiting Galicia.
Nature's Canvas: 15 Awe-Inspiring Outdoor Spaces
Get ready to be mesmerized by the perfect blend of nature and human creativity in these stunning landscaping photos!
19 Timeless Treasures of Our World You Need to See
Uncover the world's most captivating and awe-inspiring creations through the lens of history, archaeology, art, and architecture.
10 of North America’s Most Stunning National Parks
North America has so many gorgeous national parks with breathtaking views. Discover 10 of the most stunning parks this nature-rich continent has to offer.
The Most Fascinating Archaeological Finds in Recent Years
These recent archaeological discoveries left us awestruck.
Indonesia is an Island Paradise With Many Hidden Charms
Explore the culture and natural beauty of Indonesia with this immersive travel guide.
Welcome to the Coldest Town in the Whole World...
You think you know cold? For the people of Oymyakon in Russia, your idea of cold is laughable. When Amos Chappel, a photographer from New Zealand, traveled to this frozen location, he brought back incredible pictures depicting the daily lives of the
A Walk Through Israel and the Palestinian Territories
This visual adventure is sure to leave a lasting impression and deepen your understanding of this multifaceted and fascinating part of the world.
15 Magnificent Royal Residences From All Around the World
In this article, we’ll show you 15 of the most magnificent and extravagant royal palaces around the world, many of which are open to visitors
The Wild Story of the Most Isolated Island in the World
Have you heard of Pitcairn? It’s the world’s most remote island. Come, let’s explore it.
Tour 20 of the World's Finest Wine Regions Right Now
Where does the most delicious and refined wine in the world come from? From these 20 sensational wine regions all over the world. Take this fine wine tour.
The World is Full of Wonders, Here are a Fascinating Few...
From the mysterious sailing stones of death valley to red tides, ornage moons and ice circles - our world is full of these bizarre phenomena! Here are 13 of the most interesting wonders of this planet!
What 16 Different Countries Consider the BEST Comfort Food
Here is a list of the most indulgent dish from 16 different countries around the world, all of which are widely considered to be comfort foods
These Hotels Are SO Cool, No One Wants to Leave!
The problem with these beautiful hotels is that, once you get there, you never want to leave!
Take a Scenic Ride Through Europe’s Highest Alpine Railway
Embark on a journey all the way to Jungfrau mountain in the Swiss Alps, 3.454 meters (8.051 ft) above sea level, on a train!
Scotland Is One of the Most Beautiful Places on Earth
Scotland, as these 16 photos will prove, truly is a place of remarkable beauty.
15 Photos That Show Why Japan is an Amazing Place to Live
Take a look at these pictures which show why Japan is light-years ahead of the rest of the world.
12 Great Wineries for Fine Wine and Architecture
These wineries are spectacular! Their impressive facilities are without a doubt, a sight to behold.
10 of the Most Beautiful Places of Worship in the World
Houses of worship are often the most shining example of artistic architecture, and these are the most beautiful examples of that.