Transhumance: An Ancestral Journey to the Heart of our Valleys
Every year, throughout the seasons, a lively and moving spectacle brings our mountains to life: the descent of the herds, a true return to their roots for the shepherds and their animals. Here, around the gîtes of Château de la Robine, this ancestral tradition punctuates life in the valleys and testifies to a strong bond between man, nature, and animals.
A ritual throughout the seasons
At the end of summer, when the first chills of autumn are felt, it’s time for the herds to leave the verdant mountain pastures where they spent the summer months. Guided by shepherds, sheep, goats, cows, and even horses begin their trek toward the valley, returning to their sheepfolds to spend the winter in shelter.
This journey is not only essential for the survival of the herds; it’s also a time of sharing, where the local community often gathers to celebrate and perpetuate this tradition.
A live show
In our region, the herds descend through breathtaking landscapes: steep trails, shimmering streams, forests golden in autumn… Watching the animals advance in harmonious file is a spectacle both peaceful and impressive.
The sheep bells echo through the valley, accompanied by the calls of shepherds and the barking of sheepdogs, forming a natural symphony. It’s a unique experience that reconnects us with the agricultural and pastoral roots of our region.
A strong link with the gîtes of the Château de la Robine
The gîtes at Château de la Robine, nestled in the heart of this unspoiled environment, offer an ideal setting to witness this magical moment. Staying here, you can experience the transhumance up close, meet the shepherds, and learn more about their way of life.
Our gîtes are also a perfect starting point for exploring the trails used by the herds and discovering the richness of the local flora and fauna.
