Cows on the Hochalpe | © Kleinwalsertal Tourismus eGen | Photographer: Andre Tappe

07 Jul. 2021 · Summer Activities
Jasmin Gabler

10 Rules for a safe holiday around cattle

At the beginning of the Alps season, you will encounter free-range grazing livestock on your hikes. To ensure that you can continue GrenzenlosWandern (borderless hiking) in  Kleinwalsertal in the future, we rely on good cooperation on the Alps and pastures. To avoid misunderstandings between humans and animal, you should follow some tips.

Safe mountain pastures - Rule 1 | ©  Federal Ministry for Sustainability and Tourism

Tip 1

Avoid contact with grazing animals. Do not feed the animals, maintain a safe distance at all times!

Safe mountain pastures - Rule 2 | ©  Federal Ministry for Sustainability and Tourism

Tip 2

Try not to be loud. Do not startle cattle! 

Safe mountain pastures - Rule 3

Tip 3

Mother cows protect their calves. Avoid cows with calves, especially if you have a dog with you! 

Safe mountain pastures - Rule 4 | ©  Federal Ministry for Sustainability and Tourism

Tip 4

Always keep dogs under control and on a short leash. If it becomes clear that a cow is going to attack: Let your dog off the lead immediately!

Safe mountain pastures - Rule 5 | © Federal Ministry for Sustainability and Tourism

Tip 5

Do not stray from the path!

Safe mountain pastures - Rule 6 | © Federal Ministry for Sustainability and Tourism

Tip 6

If cattle block your path give them the widest berth you can!

Safe mountain pastures - Rule 7

Tip 7

If a cow approaches you: Stay calm, don’t turn your back on the animal and give it a wide berth! 

Safe mountain pastures - Rule 8 | © Federal Ministry for Sustainability and Tourism

Tip 8

At the first sign of the animals seeming unsettled, remain calm and leave the area quickly!

Safe mountain pastures - Rule 9 | © Federal Ministry for Sustainability and Tourism

Tip 9

Respect fences! If there is a gate, please use it and close it afterwards, then cross the meadow swiftly! 

Young shepherds on the Bärgunt | © Kleinwalsertal Tourismus eGen | Photographer: Andre Tappe

Tip 10

Treat the people who work here, the countryside and the animals with respect!