It is one of those special days when you can feel that summer is slowly making way for autumn. The air becomes clearer and fresher, and the first cool mornings remind us that the warm season is gradually coming to an end – while life returns to the valley from the mountains above.

On September 19, 2026, it is that time again: the traditional cattle drive takes place in Sexten.

After spending the summer months high up on the mountain pastures, the cows return to the valley. For the farmers, it is an important day; for the animals, it is the journey home to the farm – and for locals and guests alike, it is a wonderful expression of a South Tyrolean tradition that is still very much alive.

When the cows make their way through Sexten, beautifully decorated with large bells, flowers and colorful ribbons, their return home becomes a little celebration. The sound of the bells echoes through the village, children watch in amazement from the roadside, and there is a special feeling in the air – a wonderful mixture of joy, pride and just a little nostalgia.

The cattle drive also tells the story of the summer that has passed. Of long days spent on the lush mountain pastures, fresh mountain air and the hard work that goes into a summer on the alpine meadows. The animals have spent the warm months up there and now return to the valley – well-fed and accompanied by their herders.

A Piece of South Tyrol You Can Feel

Perhaps this is exactly what makes the cattle drive so special: it is not a staged spectacle. It is part of everyday life here. Part of the mountains, the farms and an agricultural tradition that has shaped the landscape of our home for generations.

At a time when everything seems to be getting faster and more modern, moments like these are precious. They remind us where we come from and how closely life in the mountains is still connected to the changing seasons.

And so we love watching the cows return from the mountain pastures to the village. We listen to the familiar sound of the bells, admire the beautifully decorated animals and enjoy the unique atmosphere of this special day.

For us, the cattle drive is a sign that summer is slowly saying “goodbye” and autumn is already knocking at the door.

Perhaps that is the magic of Sexten in autumn: the busy summer months are behind us, the mountains become quieter and nature slowly begins to prepare for the season ahead. And while the first cool days can already be felt high in the Dolomites, everyone in the valley comes together for one more celebration.

A heartfelt South Tyrolean tradition – and a wonderful reason to experience Sexten on September 19. 🍂🔔🐄