750-year-old stone pine. The oldest living tree in Tyrol
High above the medieval town of Hall in Tirol, not far from the Zirbenweg trail, has been home to the oldest living tree in Tirol/Austria for over 750 years: a pristine Swiss stone pine tree, which is not accessible via paths, stands in the middle of the 26-hectare Ampasser Kessel natural forest in unspoiled nature. Due to the inaccessibility of the area, it has not been of interest for timber exploitation over the centuries and has thus been preserved in its original state. The extraordinary tree has survived a number of major historical events in the course of its life. It was already growing as a young sapling before the Habsburg dynasty was founded in 1273.
The stone pine was designated a natural monument almost 90 years ago in 1926. The tree is also home to numerous species: various types of lichen, which speak for a very pure air quality, give the Methuselah an archaic appearance. Several families of woodpeckers have also chosen the 1,880-metre-high Swiss stone pine with its nesting cavities as a breeding ground: In addition to great spotted woodpeckers, black- and three-toed woodpeckers also live in the untouched natural area.
Above the oldest tree in Tyrol, the Swiss stone pine trail leads from Patscherkofel towards Glungezer through a large contiguous Swiss stone pine stand at 2000 meters. The Swiss stone pine, also known as stone pine (Pinus cembra), belongs to the pine family. Numerous positive properties are attributed to Swiss stone pine wood and the essential oils it emits. The typical scent of Swiss stone pine is said to ensure a deep and healthy sleep. From the high-altitude hiking trail, which is popular with hikers of all ages, you can not only take a look in the direction of the well-hidden oldest tree in Tyrol, but can also see over 300 Alpine peaks in fine weather.
