The heroic animals of the Wasserngrat ridge
The first rays of sun bathe the mountain peaks in the holiday region Gstaad in warm light – but all is quiet on the steep slopes high up on Wasserngrat ridge. The flock of sheep moves across the lush mountain meadows, a living image of peace and harmony. Nature’s beauty is everywhere: amidst the crisp mountain air, the sound of the sheep’s bells and the soothing buzzing of insects, day-to-day life becomes a distant memory.
Summer on the alpine pasture, high above the valley
Alexandra and Sarah from Biohof Giferspitz organic farm walk along the Wasserngrat ridge, sure of step. They’re gathering their flock – a rare breed of Oberland sheep – in the steep terrain where they’ve spent the summer so far. It’s now time for the flock to move on, after a hundred days in their first summer location. They’re heading further upwards, towards Giferspitz, where a veritable buffet of deliciously tender herbs and nutritious grasses awaits. In the distance, you can see the familiar silhouettes of the llamas Ari and Benji, calm and attentive on the edge of the flock. The llamas stay with the flock all day, providing order and safety. They play an indispensable role on the alp, thanks to their instincts: they mark boundaries, keep wolves and foxes at bay and protect the sheep from danger. The two organic farmers care deeply about this unique relationship and the harmonious interaction between the animals. Everything is set for the move the next day. The sheep and llamas are fenced in, and the animals spend the night together – full of anticipation.
Moving the animals – llamas and sheep in harmony
Things get going bright and early before daybreak the next morning. Alexandra opens the fence and leads the way. The flock starts to move: the sheep set off on their journey along the ridge, dotted along it like a string of pearls. They follow the lead sheep, while Ari and Benji keep guard at the edge of the group. With their natural authority, the llamas guide their sheep to the new grazing spot. The llamas gaze calmly at the scenery and only get involved when necessary: their protective instincts make them ideal companions in the Alps, where wolves, lynxes and foxes lie in wait.
Alpine diversity: the basis of life for humans and animals
The mountain landscape around Giferspitz is a testament to the region’s untouched nature, illustrated by the impressively diverse array of grasses and flowers in the summer meadow. Every detail reflects the power and beauty of the Alps: the scent of the herbs, the vibrant colours of the petals, the gentle movement of the wind through the grasses. Far from merely keeping the animals alive, nature also serves as a source of inspiration and satisfaction for the two organic farmers. Sarah grew up in the holiday region Gstaad and has travelled all over the world – but she feels most at home in the Turbachtal valley. Alexandra moved to Saanenland many years ago for work and can’t imagine living anywhere more beautiful than here in the Bernese Oberland.
Peaceful moments in harmony with nature
The time on the alp is shaped by a profound sense of connection with the surroundings. The shepherdesses watch their sheep resting on the mountain pasture and drink in the landscape. Up here, every moment is a gift – surrounded by mountains and meadows that imbue you with strength. Life mirrors nature’s rhythm, with its simplicity imparting a deep-seated feeling of contentment and gratitude.
Wonderful evening atmosphere on the Wasserngrat.
Happiness as the journey
While the sheep are spending the night on the alpine pasture – under the watchful eye of the llamas – Sarah and Alexandra are back on their organic farm. As the sun slowly sinks behind the mountains, a peaceful stillness settles over the Turbachtal valley, and the sky steadily takes on a dusky hue. Sky, the dog, relaxes in the grass in front of the house after the strenuous day, while the aroma of fresh spinach tart floats out of the kitchen. Over dinner, Alexandra and Sarah contemplate the process of moving the animals to their new summer home. The moment nourishes their souls – a reminder of the close connection between humans and nature. The beauty of the mountains, the crispness of the air and the deep bond with the animals leave the two farmers feeling a genuine sense of happiness. Happiness that’s not the destination – but the journey.