The Désalpes

ALBEUVE, CHARMEY, L'ÉTIVAZ

The Désalpe celebrates the herds' descent to the plains after more than four months on the mountain pastures. In autumn, the herdsmen and their flocks leave the mountain pastures, cows in the lead, bells on their collars and horns in bloom. Traditional dress is also on show, with bredzons (a jacket embroidered with edelweiss, shirt and trousers) for the men and dzaquillons (a combination of dress and apron) for the women. Folk music accompanies the procession. There is also a market selling local produce.

The Désalpe d'Albeuve, known as the Foire d'Albeuve, brings together the various local companies. Numerous artisans offer their wares at the stands, with demonstrations such as the making of bricelets and cheese. Alpine horns accompany the livestock and farm animal displays. Children are also welcome, with activities specially designed for them.

The Charmey Désalpe is also an opportunity to discover local produce at the market. Alphorns and flag-throwing punctuate the festivities. Children are not left out either, with the chance to take a ride on horseback. A large canteen and food stalls provide visitors with something to eat. The canteen also plays host to a folk orchestra for the evening dance. The evening continues with a DJ.

As well as the traditional market selling local produce, the Désalpe de l'Étivaz offers tours of the Étivaz cellars and cheese-making demonstrations. On the music front, the Pays-d'Enhaut bell ringers will be performing, and there will also be Alp horns and a folk music group. There are also activities for children, including face painting, an introduction to wrestling and throwing the Étivaz stone.

Information : La Gruyère Tourisme, +41 (0)848 424 424 ; Pays-d'Enhaut Tourisme, +41 (0)26 924 25 25