Désalpe of L’Etivaz

At the end of summer, L’Etivaz celebrates the return of the herds to the valley. Flower-adorned cows, bells, music, wrestling, crafts and local specialities bring this emblematic Pays-d’Enhaut tradition to life.

After spending the summer on the alpine pastures, the herds return to the valley for the winter. In L’Etivaz, this seasonal descent becomes a lively celebration where locals and visitors come together to enjoy the traditions of alpine life.

For the occasion, the cows are adorned with flowers and wear their finest bells. Accompanied by the armaillis, the traditional alpine herdsmen, they parade through the village to the applause of the crowd. Throughout the day, the festivities continue with alphorns, flag throwing, yodelling, Swiss wrestling demonstrations, bell ringers and a craft market.

The event also celebrates local flavours, with a special place reserved for L’Etivaz AOP. Traditionally made on the alpine pastures and matured in the village cellars, this emblematic cheese embodies the close connection between the mountains, craftsmanship and tradition.

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Programme From 8:00 am: the parade of decorated herds begins in the heart of the village. The cows make their way through the hamlet at regular intervals throughout the morning. From 9:00 am to 5:00 pm: the large craft market opens, with cheese-making demonstrations taking place in the festival area. Throughout the day: traditional entertainment including flag throwing, alphorns, yodellers, small animals and a cheese competition in the festival area. Around 2:00-3:00 pm: cheese tasting and judging by a panel including Laetitia Gaborit, Meilleure Ouvrière de France in cheesemaking, alongside several professionals. Three awards will be presented: the Children’s Favourite Award, the Adults’ Favourite Award and the Jury Prize. The winners will be announced after the jury’s deliberations and will be invited, together with their families, to the evening meal in the Désalpe marquee, where they will receive their prizes. From 7:00 pm: festive traditional evening in the heated marquee, with grilled food, raclette and live music. Access and parking Driving directly into the centre of L’Etivaz is strongly discouraged due to the herd parades and resulting traffic disruptions. Free park-and-ride areas are available on the outskirts, including at the Landi in Château-d’Œx. Daytime shuttles Free shuttle buses run continuously from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm between the parking areas and the centre of the event. Advance booking is not required. Evening shuttle buses For visitors wishing to stay for the evening, shuttle services between L’Etivaz and the Landi in Château-d’Œx are scheduled at 6:00 pm, 7:00 pm and 8:00 pm. A late-night “Pyjama Bus” is also available from 11:30 pm. Access by public transport The TPC bus line between Château-d’Œx and Col des Mosses serves the “Maison de L’Etivaz” stop every hour. Admission Admission is CHF 10.- per adult. Entry is free for children up to 16 years old. Tickets No advance booking is required. The admission pin can be purchased directly from volunteers at the various welcome points and shuttle departure areas. Payment via TWINT is accepted on site.