The “transhumance” is the twice-yearly ritual of moving flocks of sheep and goats down into the valleys in the fall and back up to Alpine meadows in late spring for summertime grazing. Many local shepherds have returned to the traditional practice of moving their flocks on foot rather than trucking them as the habit had become a few years ago.

In the Var, particularly around Montauroux, the move takes place in mid-June.

It’s a spectacle not to be missed either on foot (for the hardy) or by car (for the less-hardy). Patience is a virtue for those who get out to watch this age-old practice and people soon discover that hundreds of sheep won’t give way just because a hurried motorist wants to pass. So take your time, park the car, get out your camera and enjoy the stroll. Today’s shepherds are even wired – you can see pictures, hints on how to participate and local events to celebrate the occasion – on www.transhumance-tradition.com

From Riviera Reporter Issue 133: June/July 2009

TrackBack URI for this entry

Comments (0)

Subscribe to this comment's feed

Show/Hide comments

Show/Hide comment form