Viehscheid Missen

What is a Viehscheid?

The Viehscheid – also known as Almabtrieb in the Bavarian-Austrian Alps – is one of the oldest traditions of alpine farming. In summer, herdsmen drive the cattle to the high pastures ('Alpen'), where they graze on fresh mountain herbs and alpine grasses for about 100 days. In September, when the higher altitudes become frosty, the cattle return to the valley. This return is more than a logistical event: it is celebrated as a Volksfest (folk festival), with decorated cattle, festive music, and thanksgiving services.

Missen-Wilhams – An Allgäu Climatic Health Resort

The municipality of Missen-Wilhams is located in the Oberallgäu region, nestled in the Allgäu foothills of the Alps, with just under 2,000 inhabitants. Recognized as a climatic health resort, it is one of the less touristy communities in the Allgäu – which is precisely what makes the Viehscheid here such an authentic event, far from mass tourism.

The Cows – Stars of the Day

Around 350 animals descend from four different alpine pastures each year. Before the drive, the animals are festively decorated by the herdsmen: wreaths of flowers on their heads, large bells around their necks, sometimes elaborate headdresses with mirrors and ribbons. The most beautiful cow from each pasture wears the most magnificent decoration – the 'Kranzrind' (wreath cow).

The Scheidplatz

At the Scheidplatz in Missen, the animals are returned to their owners by the herdsmen ('geschieden' – separated). This is a highly concentrated but emotional moment: each cow has a name, each farmer knows their animals. The herdsmen have built a trusting relationship over 100 days – the farewell is a little sadness and great joy at the same time.

Program on the Viehscheid Day

The day begins around 09:30 AM with the ceremonial reception of guests by alphorn players and the master of ceremonies. The Missen-Wilhams music band plays all day. In the afternoon, the bell tombola takes place – a humorous competition between herdsmen and guests with alpine bells as prizes. From 7:00 PM, a live band plays, and the dance evening lasts until late into the night.

Kesselfleisch with Kraut

The culinary highlight is Allgäu mountain cuisine: Kesselfleisch mit Kraut – boiled pork with sauerkraut and farmer's bread – is the traditional specialty of the Viehscheid day. Other offerings include Käsespätzle (cheese noodles), Allgäu mountain cheese, mushroom soup, roast pork, pretzels, and Allgäu beer.

Organizers and Traditional Association

The festival is jointly organized by the Viehscheid Association, the Missen-Wilhams Music Band, the Fire Department, and the traditional costume association 'D'Bergstätter Börlas'. This joint ownership ensures that the Viehscheid remains a genuine village event and does not become a mere tourist spectacle.

An Authentic Allgäu Day

Anyone who wants to experience a real Viehscheid – with real farmers, real animals, real Allgäu culture – will find exactly that in Missen. Those looking for mass tourism with helium balloons are in the wrong place. It is precisely this authenticity that makes it so appealing.