Each spring, it is one of the most authentic gatherings of the Haute-Savoie mountains. From the month of May, the herds leave the valleys to reach the high-altitude pastures, marking the beginning of the summer season in the mountains. Called “montées en alpage” or “enmontagnées”, these festive days attract many visitors each year who come to discover agricultural traditions, walk alongside the cows, and share a friendly moment facing the peaks.
In 2026, several villages and resorts in Haute-Savoie will offer the chance to experience this unique event at the heart of the alpine pastures.
An iconic tradition of the Savoyard mountains
The montée en alpage marks the departure of the herds to the high-altitude pastures where the cows will spend the entire summer. Accompanied by farmers, the animals cross villages, roads, and mountain paths in a typical sound atmosphere punctuated by the ringing of bells.
Beyond the simple movement of the herds, these days have become true popular festivals combining agriculture, local heritage, gastronomy, and the discovery of mountain know-how. They also help to better understand the work of breeders and the importance of the alpine pastures in the production of famous Savoyard cheeses such as Reblochon or Abondance.
Combloux: a first festive montée en alpage facing Mont Blanc
In Combloux, the Young Farmers will organize in 2026 a very first montée en alpage open to the public. The meeting is set for Friday, May 15 to accompany more than 50 Abondance breed cows to the Beauregard alpine pasture.
On the program: coffee reception at the farm, ascent at the pace of the herd, exchanges with farmers, and a shared barbecue upon arrival with a view of Mont Blanc. A friendly and family experience that should quickly become a spring must-see in the Mont Blanc region.
Practical information:
- Place: Ferme d’Arvillon – 301 chemin d’Arvillon – 74920 Combloux
- About 6.5 km walk / 450 meters positive elevation gain
- Registration: online booking
Meet Friday, May 15, 2026, from 9:30 am to 2 pm for this day dedicated to sharing, tradition, and the mountains.
La Clusaz / Le Grand Bornand: the spectacle of herds at the foot of the Aravis range
In the Aravis, several farms still perpetuate this ancestral tradition. The ascents to the Confins pastures or the Beauregard plateau offer spectacular panoramas of the Aravis range.
During these days, visitors can follow the herds on foot, exchange with breeders, and enjoy a very friendly atmosphere around Savoyard specialties.
The dates are not yet known, but you can stay informed on the official website: https://saveurs-des-aravis.fr/
Abondance and the Chablais: immersion in the heart of the Abondance territory
In the Abondance valley, the montées en alpage take on a very special dimension. Here, herds of Abondance cows ascend to the high pastures that contribute to the production of the famous AOP cheese of the same name.
The enmontagnée at Mouët in Châtel
On Saturday, May 30, 2026, meet in Châtel to experience the traditional montée en alpage organized by Michel and Béatrice. In an authentic atmosphere punctuated by the ringing of bells, participants accompany the Abondance breed cows from the Linga area to the Mouët alpine pasture.
Departure from Chez Crosson in Linga from 8:15 am.
From 9:15 am: welcome drink at Châtel Tourism, then a friendly drink at the Barbossine chairlift.
Upon arrival at the alpine pasture, a meal (to be booked in advance) is organized at the Chalet du Mouët: specialties based on Abondance cheese, homemade tart.
Throughout the route, several convivial moments will punctuate this mountain ascent, notably a welcome drink and a friendly drink offered at the Barbossine chairlift.
Once arrived at the Chalet du Mouët, the celebration will continue around a warm meal highlighting local specialties based on Abondance cheese, not forgetting the homemade tarts and musical entertainment that will accompany this day dedicated to sharing and Savoyard traditions.
More information on the website châtel.com.
The montée en alpage of Chez Pépé Nicolas
Mountain and tradition lovers have an appointment on Saturday, June 20, 2026 to participate in the traditional montée en alpage organized by the alpine farm Chez Pépé Nicolas. From Saint-Martin-de-Belleville, participants will join the heights of Les Menuires on a friendly 6-kilometer walk through alpine landscapes.
Throughout this festive day, young and old will be able to discover mountain know-how through various craft and agricultural demonstrations, enjoy varied entertainment, and share a Savoyard lunch in a warm atmosphere.
Music, meetings, and surprises will also punctuate this montée en alpage which celebrates the start of the summer season in the high pastures. The festivities usually continue in the evening with an alpine atmosphere animated by a DJ, a catering area, and a bar to prolong this friendly moment facing the mountains.
Meet on Saturday, June 20 at 8:15 am in front of the Saint-Martin-de-Belleville town hall to welcome the animals in a mountain atmosphere. The detailed program is available on the website chezpepenicolas.com.
Praz de Lys
Montée celebration at the Praz de Lys alpine pasture “to the sound of bells,” Saturday, June 6, 2026. Meet at 11:00 am at the station departure to accompany the cows to the alpine pasture.
12:00 pm: Meal served at the Auberge du Lys Blanc with musical entertainment: €25
Reservation at 06-72-36-00-25
Why participate in a montée en alpage?
Beyond the magnificent landscapes, participating in a montée en alpage allows you to experience a true moment of sharing with farmers and mountain inhabitants.
It is also an opportunity to:
- observe the herds up close;
- discover pastoral traditions;
- taste Savoyard specialties;
- enjoy an accessible hike in a festive atmosphere;
- and live an authentic experience far from major tourist events.
Some advice before leaving
Although these events remain accessible to the greatest number, it is recommended to bring:
- shoes suitable for walking;
- clothing for the mountains;
- water and sun protection;
- and arrive early, as some montées attract many people.
The exact dates and detailed programs of the 2026 montées en alpage will be gradually announced in spring by the tourist offices and the municipalities concerned, and updated in this article as they become available.
Article mis à jour le 20 May 2026
