Fête de la Transhumance des Vosgiennes

The Vosgienne Transhumance, a Living Pastoral Heritage

The Fête de la Transhumance des Vosgiennes in Saulxures-sur-Moselotte celebrates each year the spring departure of the herd towards the Vosgienne chaumes, these characteristic high-altitude pastures of the massif. Organized by Laura and Lionel Vaxelaire, passionate breeders from the Au Petit Gravier farm, this day perpetuates a pastoral know-how that had almost disappeared in the 19th century in the Vosges. For about twenty years, committed breeders have revived this ancestral practice, bringing back to life the mountain paths once trodden by the marcaires, these emblematic farmer-cheesemakers of the Vosges massif.

The Route to Les Prenzières

The day begins at 10 a.m. with the welcome of visitors at the Au Petit Gravier farm, nestled in the Moselotte valley. At 11 a.m., the procession sets off: the Vosgienne breed cows, recognizable by their black coat with a white stripe down their back, start along a three-kilometer trail towards the Prenzières farm-inn. Decorated with gleaming bells, polished for the occasion according to custom, they move through fir forests and flowery meadows under the encouragement of walkers. A stop at the stream allows both animals and participants to drink before the triumphant arrival on the heights.

Music, Terroir, and Marcaires Traditions

The enchanting sounds of the Alpine horn and the lively melodies of the accordion accompany the ascent, creating an atmosphere that is both solemn and joyful. Upon arrival at Les Prenzières, a small open-air snack bar offers local Vosgienne specialties: tourte lorraine, farm-fresh Munster cheese, smoked charcuterie, and blueberry tart. The famous repas marcaire — a hearty Vosgienne stew, smoked meats with potatoes, cheese platter, and homemade desserts — is served at the farm-inn for guests who have booked, as it is highly sought after.

A Heritage Recognized by UNESCO

Since December 2023, transhumance has been inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list, recognizing the breeding methods, pastoral management, and artisanal know-how associated with this millennia-old practice. In the Vosges, more than fifty breeders now perpetuate transhumance, contributing to the maintenance of the chaumes landscapes, mountain biodiversity, and the production of exceptional cheeses. The Fête de la Transhumance in Saulxures-sur-Moselotte embodies this revival, offering families and mountain lovers a moment of rare authenticity in the heart of the Hautes-Vosges.