Stone Pine Paradise

Aletsch Forest

Unspoilt nature in the heart of the Jungfrau-Aletsch UNESCO World Heritage Site

Aletsch Forest is a unique natural paradise and part of the Jungfrau-Aletsch UNESCO World Heritage Site, and plays a vital role in preserving biodiversity in the Alps. This ancient protective forest is a living example of the region’s pristine nature and ecological balance. With its populations of Swiss stone pine, spruce and larch, the Aletsch Forest provides a habitat for numerous animal and plant species that have thrived here under ideal conditions for centuries. Hike through these majestic trees that watch over the mighty Aletsch Glacier like silent sentinels, and experience nature in its purest form.

are the oldest stone pines in the Aletsch Forest

is the year the Aletsch Forest was declared a nature reserve

is the total area of the magical Aletsch Forest

Aletsch Forest – a living legacy of the Alps

Aletsch Forest fulfils an important function as a protective forest that preserves the delicate ecological balance of the Alps and protects the region from erosion and avalanches. Having been under the protection of Pro Natura since 1933, the nature here is in a nearly unspoilt state. Sustainability is a fundamental principle of the woodland management practised here: dead wood remains in the forest, decomposes and creates habitats for a variety of plants and animals.

The ancient Swiss stone pines, which can live up to 1,000 years, make a crucial contribution to the stability of the forest. These trees brave the extreme weather conditions in the Alps and play a key role in the preservation of the Jungfrau-Aletsch UNESCO World Heritage Site. They provide protection against erosion and safeguard the ecological balance in the region. Aletsch Forest is not only a significant part of the World Heritage Site, but also an important example of the protection of the Alpine environment.

Ancient Swiss stone pines – the 1,000-year-old guardians of the Alps

The Swiss stone pines in the Aletsch Forest are among the oldest trees in Europe, some being over 1,000 years old. With their resilience and ability to adapt to extreme conditions over centuries, they are symbolic of the longevity of nature in the Alps. These remarkable trees play a decisive role in maintaining an ecological balance and provide an important habitat for many animal species, including chamois and golden eagles. The ancient Swiss stone pines watch over the Aletsch Forest like silent sentinels and lend this unique protective forest its powerful tranquillity.

Hiking and nature experiences in the Aletsch Forest – feel the soul of the Alps

Aletsch Forest is a very special natural wonder in the Jungfrau-Aletsch UNESCO World Heritage Site. The hiking trails, such as the Moraine Trail along the glacial lateral moraines or the circular hike to Lake Grünsee, offer breathtaking views of the Aletsch Glacier and showcase the unique alpine flora found here. In autumn in particular, the forest is engulfed in a fascinating blaze of colour that cloaks it in a golden glow. The unspoilt nature and the peace and quiet that fills Aletsch Forest make it a magical place for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in the unspoilt character of the Alps. Visit the World Nature Forum in Naters and deepen your knowledge of the history and protection of this unique ecosystem.

Experience the unspoilt nature of Aletsch Forest up close! Hike through the ancient Swiss stone pines and enjoy the vastness and tranquillity of this unique protective forest in the Jungfrau-Aletsch UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover it now!

Sleep better with the stone pine

Herbstwanderung in der Aletsch Arena — © ©aletscharena.ch / Christian Pfammatter - third parties editorial and touristic use only, Christian Pfammatter

The stone pine smells incredibly good. And it has a soothing effect on you thanks to the essential oils in the pine tree’s resin. Their captivating scent make for personal equilibrium and a good night’s sleep. But that’s not all: did you know that the scent of ancient stone pines calms even the most argumentative of people? The essential oils of the stone pine tree again play a key role here, which is true of many other conifers too. They soothe the senses and regulate stress hormones. Researchers have long been clear about the positive effect of the forest on people’s wellbeing, a fact confirmed by countless studies. So it’s good news that there is now a whole range of pine products – such as a Stone Pine Pillow filled with fine wood shavings, or an aromatic room fragrance.