The greatest pride of the Montafon. With a height of 70 cm.
Montafon people are modest, proud, honest and robust. And perhaps it is these characteristics that are also reflected in their own breed of sheep: the Montafon Steinschf (stone sheep).
The Montafon Steinschaf, with its pretty, straight nose and shiny coat, is undemanding, weatherproof and friendly. Alongside the Montafon brown cattle, it is the only animal breed originating from Vorarlberg. When the breed was almost extinct, enthusiasts such as Martin Mathies and Peter Kasper became involved in its preservation. Thanks to their efforts, the population grew from 40 animals in 2010 to around 600 to 700 today. Around 30 breeders in the Montafon now look after this special breed of sheep.
"They are simple, tame animalsthat you quickly take to your heart."
Martin Mathis
Together with breeder Peter Kasper, Martin Mathies has come up with a number of ideas to popularize the Montafon Steinschaf. With a lot of perseverance, commitment and in cooperation with other breeders and regional partners, they created the best conditions for the future of this original Vorarlberg breed.
the "Montafon Stone Sheep" initiative was founded in 2011?
In the beginning, Martin Mathies and Peter Kasper had to do a lot of convincing, but today their work is widely recognized. Interest in the local breed has grown and many people are seeking contact with the breeders and their animals.
Martin now keeps around 30 Montafon stone sheep, Peter discovered the breed for himself later and has been enthusiastic about it ever since. Visitors are welcome to visit the farms - especially in the fall when the lambs are frolicking around. For 200 euros a year, you can become a sponsor and receive news and a wool or meat product.
Our Montafon stone sheep can be found on the Maisäß Rüti in the Gargellnertal until mid-September. Come and see them!
Martin Stone sheep breeder
Products from the Montafon stone sheep
The wool of the Montafon stone sheep is known for its quality and is available in natural shades from white to black. It is shorn twice a year and processed in Austria. For felting work, Martin and Peter rely on the handiwork of Kerstin Keßler from Tschagguns, who is also a stone sheep breeder.
