Almabtrieb over the Königssee

Unique Almabtrieb in the Alpine Region

The Almabtrieb over the Königssee is one of the most extraordinary traditional events in the Berchtesgaden Alps. Unlike classic Almabtriebs, where cattle are driven down into the valley, the cows from the Saletalm and Fischunkelalm alpine pastures in the southern Königssee must be transported back to the valley by boat – a custom that is unique throughout the Alpine region.

From St. Bartholomew's Day to the Almabtrieb

Preparations begin on August 24th (St. Bartholomew's Day), the traditional closing day of the alpine summer in the Berchtesgaden region. From then on, the Fuikl are made – artfully handcrafted floral and fir branch decorations with which the cow heads are adorned. Farmers spend around 30 hours decorating each animal, but only if the summer on the alpine pasture has been accident-free. If a dairymaid or an animal dies on the alpine pasture, the Almabtrieb remains undecorated – out of respect for the deceased.

Across the Lake with the Landauer

The cows are loaded onto flat wooden boats specially constructed for the Königssee cattle, the Landauer. The crossing from the southern shore to the Seelände near Schönau takes about an hour. For about a hundred years, engines have taken over the task of rowers; however, the tradition itself has remained unchanged for centuries. Around 30 animals are brought back to the valley this way each season.

Deliberately No Advance Dates

No fixed dates are deliberately announced. The exact day depends on the weather and the course of the alpine summer; the Almabtrieb usually takes place between early and mid-October. "We ask for your understanding that no dates can be announced," it is officially stated. Those who wish to experience the Almabtrieb should inquire locally or follow the daily press.

Location on the Königssee

The Königssee is located in the Berchtesgaden National Park in the Berchtesgadener Land district in Bavaria. The Seelände in Schönau am Königssee is the central landing stage for the electric Königssee boat service – the Landauer with the decorated animals also dock there.

For Whom?

• Lovers of extraordinary traditional events
• Photographers and nature lovers (Berchtesgaden Alps, Watzmann)
• Those who want to experience authentic, un-staged alpine traditions
• Visitors to the Berchtesgaden National Park