The history of Swiss stone pine – Bad Kleinkirchheim
Why not take a short and informative tour of the history of Swiss stone pine. Over the millennia the pine has only remained in a few places of retreat such as in the Nockberge region.
Swiss stone pine was introduced to Central Europe from Siberia during the last Ice Age. The resilient pine quickly established itself and spread in the Alpine regions. A few centuries ago, local inhabitants used to eat the fruits of the tree which were certain to be filling, being 70% fat and 20% protein. Improvements in food provision led to these fruits no longer being used – only the distinctive Swiss stone pine schnapps remains of this former cultivation of the fruit.
The wood of the Swiss stone pine is highly sought-after. Residents of the Alpine regions began to use Swiss stone pine for furnishing their rooms very early on. The delicate smell and the fact that the atmosphere makes people feel more sociable and relaxed has now been scientifically proven. It was therefore a small step from here to using the pine in Swiss stone pine schnapps which is still drunk even today. The wood has also been used for centuries to make beds and wardrobes. Swiss stone pine works wonders in keeping moths away.
Swiss stone pine wood: furniture for rustic rooms.
If nature was allowed to roam free, there would be far more Swiss stone pine woods. However, many of the trees have been felled in various regions of the Alps in order to manage the pasture land. Only a few areas of the trees now remain. These include primarily Tyrol, South Tyrol and Switzerland in addition to the Nockberge region. Luckily, circumstances have led to the forests of Swiss stone pine recovering: the popularity of the wood as a raw material for use in furniture and furnishings fell over the last few decades and Swiss stone pine was regarded as too rustic and kitsch for many years.
Yet over the last few years, Swiss stone pine has undergone a real revival. Its typical grain, unrivalled scent and its positive effects on healthy sleep have increased interest in the wood again. Carpenters have also helped to give Swiss stone pine furnishings a new image. In the Nockberge region, many carpenters today use the wood to create modern designer furniture. Swiss stone pine is now available in accommodation for holidaymakers. And where better to recuperate than on holiday! The natural strength of the wood also fits in perfectly with the Alpine well-being philosophy of Bad Kleinkirchheim.
Why not book yourself accommodation in Carinthia with recuperative properties and traditional furnishings. Click here to complete a non-binding enquiry about Swiss stone pine rooms in Bad Kleinkirchheim.
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