Traditional transhumance festival returns to Belledonne massif in French Alps

Sheep and goats are guided into alpine pastures at Le Collet d’Allevard as France’s traditional transhumance festival returns to the Belledonne massif. The event, which has been a hallmark of the region’s pastoral heritage for centuries, marks the seasonal migration of livestock from lower valleys to higher summer grazing grounds.

The festival, held in late spring, follows a route that has been preserved for generations, with shepherds leading herds through the rugged terrain of the Belledonne range. Local authorities and cultural organizations have coordinated the event to showcase the region’s agricultural practices, support rural economies, and attract visitors interested in heritage tourism.

By re‑establishing this centuries‑old tradition, the Belledonne community highlights the continued relevance of transhumance in contemporary France, reinforcing the link between the land, its people, and the seasonal rhythms that have shaped the area’s identity.