Traditional Swiss Cow Fighting (Leukerbad)

Imagine bullfighting in Spain.

Now, take away the bullring, heat, bulls and torreros and add mountains, snow and a bunch of temperamental black cows with huge bells around their necks.

We are talking about Swiss cow fighting. These cow fights involve less human influence and violence compared to bullfighting. Instead, fighting is a part of a cows' natural behavior for determining their place of dominance in the herd's hierarchy.

Eight typical Hérens cows from Valais will fight each other in a direct duel, and the winner will be honored as the Queen. The traditional cow fights in Leukerbad offer a unique atmosphere, and admission is free. So, before you soak in those warm Leukerbad springs, make sure you visit Flaschen for this event!

(Photos copyright Leukerbad Tourismus/torrent.ch)