Alpine Festival in Lenk Im Simmental, Switzerland

Come Autumn in Switzerland and it is time for some quintessentially ‘Swiss’ festivals that reflect the country’s unique customs and traditions. The Désalpe or cattle descent is one among the most popular of such festivals. A tradition since centuries, this one celebrates the return of cattle from the mountains to the plains and to their winter barns after grazing for four months in the sunny Alpine pastures.

Alpine festival Lenk im Simmental Cow Procession in the Alpine festival Lenk im Simmental

Cow processions in the Alpine valley are marked with festivities and is steeped in tradition. Cows decorated with bunches of colourful flowers and have large bells hanging around their necks while the herdsmen and women are dressed in colourful traditional attire. These festivals are held in various parts of Switzerland like Appenzell, Albeuve, Charmey, Semsales and Lenk im Simmental.

Cow Procession in Lenk im Simmental

I recently attended the festival in Lenk im Simmental and was fascinated by the display of cows, color and culture all around. Incidentally, the Simmental valley is one of the greenest in Switzerland and is dotted with idyllic Swiss villages offers ensnaring views of wooden chalets, grazing cows and the surrounding verdant landscape. Simmental cattle is famous in the country and is bred for its meat as well as milk.

A view of Simmental Valley A view of Simmental Valley

The festival was all things Swiss; with mountains, cows and cheese taking center stage. The entire town bore a celebratory look with hundreds of people waiting to see their favorite cows coming in. Small groups of cows made their appearance at regular intervals with some troups having donkeys and even llamas!

Cows being fed after the procession

As they moved their way up, cows were tethered to an enclosure where they were fed and visitors could see them upclose. It was also a way for visitors to vote for their favorite cow. Yes, each year the festival chooses the most beautiful cow in Lenk which is crowned “Miss Lenk”!

Last year’s winner of Miss Lenk!

I found the atmosphere and vibe similar to the region’s Christmas markets with scores of stalls selling handcrafted cheese, baked goodies, drinks, handmade goods like candles, knitted wear, scarves and even handicrafts made from wood.

Handcrafted cheese in Lenk Alpine festival Gourmet goods in Lenk Alpine Festival Stalls at the Alpine festival in Lenk Handcrafted goods at the Lenk Alpine Festival

There were games and play areas for children, dedicated areas where one could eat and drink as well as traditional music all around. All in all, a great day to witness native culture and age old traditions. Follow this link for more information on upcoming festivals of Switzerland.