Packing list for the Chästeilet in Justistal - what you need in your rucksack!

The Chästeilet in the Justistal valley is no ordinary excursion - it is a centuries-old ritual that delights guests and locals alike. Once a year, in September, farmers, herdsmen and visitors meet at Spycherberg above Lake Thun. This is where the alpine summer comes to a festive end: The cheese wheels produced over the summer are divided up in the traditional way - accompanied by meter-high cheese towers, hand-picked lots, decorated cows, the sound of the alphorn and yodelling. A day that is deeply rooted in tradition and yet radiates pure joie de vivre.

So that you can enjoy this special occasion without a care in the world, it pays to pack smart. Here is our ultimate packing list for the Chästeilet:

The packing list for the Chästeilet

• Hiking boots - secure grip on alpine paths and meadows.

• Warm jacket - against cool wind and mountain weather.

• Sweater or Jäggli - perfect for layering.

• Hat or headband - protects your head and ears.

• Eduwishemd - tradition meets style, simply part of it.

• Backpack - practical for provisions, drinks and perhaps a piece of cheese.

• Wine glass - the small insider accessory with cult status.

• Wine - to toast and share.

• Beer - for those who prefer it hoppy.

• Sack knife - indispensable in the mountains and for cheese.

• Possibly dry spare clothing - in case the weather turns.

• Cash - card payment is not possible everywhere.

• Gloves - warm fingers make the day more pleasant.

• Water - to quench your thirst in between meals.

• Sandwich - a little snack for in between.
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Blog tip: Less is more - but the right thing to do

The Chästeilet is not a place for overloaded rucksacks. It is much more important to take the right things with you: weatherproof clothing, a pocket knife, some cash and a glass for the wine. This leaves your hands free - and enough space in your rucksack for memories, beautiful photos and perhaps a little snack from the party.

And: it's worth setting off early! If you experience the morning in the valley, you will feel the special atmosphere as the sun slowly rises over the mountain peaks, the sounds of the alphorn drift through the valley and the cheese wheels are carefully stacked into towers.

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Tradition - alive for centuries

The Chästeilet is much more than a festival - it is part of the cultural heritage of the Bernese Oberland. Cheese has been made in the Justistal valley during the alpine summer for centuries. At the end of the alpine season, it is collected at Spycherberg and divided up among the farmers and herdsmen.

This is done using a traditional method: The cheese wheels are stacked, lots are drawn and the shares are allocated. For the herdsmen, this not only means a whole season's yield, but also pride in their work and gratitude towards nature and animals.

A folk festival is created around the cheese distribution: decorated cows parade through the valley, yodelers and alphorn players create a great atmosphere, and visitors can experience the unique blend of tradition, conviviality and nature.

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Conclusion: A day for all the senses

The Chästeilet in the Justistal is more than just a tradition - it is an experience for the eyes, ears, nose and palate. With the right equipment, you can enjoy the day to the full: the ringing of cowbells, the scent of alpine herbs, the sight of cheese wheels and, of course, the tangy taste of fresh alpine cheese.

So: pack your rucksack, lace up your hiking boots, set off early - and immerse yourself in a piece of living Swiss tradition that you are guaranteed not to forget.

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