- French
Experience one of our most-loved traditions, in the heart of the spectacular They Valley!
This festive day marks the return of the They Valley Hérens to their summer pastures and is a unique opportunity for visitors and locals to admire impressive combats between the fighting ‘Queens’, as the cows battle to establish dominance within the herd.
The inalpe
- Also known as the poya in local dialect, the inalpe is the seasonal migration of livestock and shepherds up to the high alpine pastures at the start of summer. Taking place between late May and early June, the date is set according to snowmelt and grass growth at altitude. The Valais inalpe is renowned for its traditional ‘Combat des Reines’.
Practical information:
> Combats begin between 9:00 and 9:30, running until approximately 12:00, then resuming from 17:00.
> Delicious local specialities, a bar, and a lively atmosphere await under the cantine tent, with the Echo du Signal orchestra providing entertainment during the day and the Savoyard folk band Le Cocktail des Montagnes keeping the celebrations going into the wee hours.
> Regular shuttle service from the entrance to the They Valley road (near the Ranch), from approximately 8:30am.
> For further information, please contact the Vieux They agritourism restaurant at +41 79 261 35 09.