My 3-Day Itinerary at the Alpabzug Festival in Switzerland

#springitinerary Switzerland in autumn is magical, and one of the best ways to experience its traditions is by attending the **Alpabzug (or Désalpe) festival**—a vibrant celebration where farmers bring their cows down from the high alpine pastures to the valleys, adorned with flower crowns and bells. Here’s how I spent three unforgettable days immersed in this Swiss cultural spectacle. --- ## **Day 1: Arrival & Exploring the Festival Grounds** ### **Morning: Arrival in a Picturesque Village** I arrived in **Lauterbrunnen** (though popular spots like **Erlenbach** or **Schwarzsee** also host amazing Alpabzug events). The crisp mountain air and golden autumn hues set the perfect mood. ### **Afternoon: First Glimpse of the Parade** The highlight was the **cow parade**—herds of decorated cows with giant bells marched down, led by farmers in traditional costumes. The sound of the bells (called *Trychle*) was mesmerizing! ### **Evening: Local Feasts & Folk Music** I joined a **festive dinner** at a local guesthouse, indulging in Swiss specialties like **raclette, rösti, and alpine cheese**. A **folk music band** played traditional tunes, making it a lively end to the day. --- ## **Day 2: Deeper into the Tradition** ### **Morning: Visiting an Alpine Dairy Farm** I took a short hike to a nearby **alp (mountain pasture)** to see where the cows spend their summers. The farmers explained the cheese-making process, and I got to taste fresh **Alpkäse (alpine cheese)**—absolutely delicious! ### **Afternoon: More Parades & Market Stalls** Different villages had their own versions of the procession. I explored **handicraft stalls** selling wooden cowbells, embroidered textiles, and local honey. ### **Evening: Sunset Hike & Fondue Dinner** A short hike to a viewpoint rewarded me with a **stunning sunset** over the Alps. Dinner was a cozy **fondue** experience with fellow travelers, sharing stories of the day’s adventures. --- ## **Day 3: A Scenic Farewell** ### **Morning: Scenic Train Ride** I hopped on the **GoldenPass Line** for breathtaking views of the autumn landscape—rolling hills, quaint chalets, and lingering morning mist. ### **Afternoon: Final Stop at a Local Creamery** Before leaving, I visited a **small dairy** where they demonstrated butter-making. Of course, I couldn’t resist buying some **freshly churned butter** and more cheese to take home. ### **Evening: Reflecting on the Journey** As I headed back, I felt grateful for experiencing such an authentic Swiss tradition. The **Alpabzug** isn’t just a festival—it’s a beautiful blend of nature, culture, and community. --- ### **Final Thoughts** If you love **culture, nature, and food**, the Alpabzug is a must-see. The combination of stunning landscapes, joyful parades, and warm Swiss hospitality made this trip unforgettable.