Zirbenwald
Experience unique natural heritage
The Zirbenwald (Swiss Stone Pine Forest) south of Obergurgl is a real rarity for nature lovers. Since 1963 this area, with its up to 400 year old trees, has been a protected natural monument in the UNESCO “Gurgler Kamm” biosphere park. This ancient alpine woodland is a unique place to find peace and relaxation in summer or winter.
Nature resort
Breathe fresh mountain air and enjoy the view. You can completely relax in the Zirbenwald. Alpine meadows, stately pine trees and the red moss waterfall line your path. Such an ancient pine forest is a rarity: so many ancient alpine pine trees in one place.
Winter activities in the Zirbenwald
The stone pine forest is one of Gurgl's special facets in winter. It enables active relaxation in a winter wonderland, while you can be completely with yourself.
Summer activities
The Zirbenwald in Gurgl is the ideal place for several different summer activities with different levels of athleticism from trail running to gentle walks. It's a wonderful place to clear your head and seek fresh inspiration. A dedicated themed trail has been created in Gurgl to help you explore the Zirbenwald. 15 display boards and interactive stations tell you more about the “Queen of the Treeline”.
The history of the Zirbenwald
In most cases, pine trees grow alone or together with larches. It is unusual to find them at such high altitudes. That's why the Zirbenwald has been a natural monument in the UNESCO biosphere park “Gurgler Kamm” since 1963. The oldest trees in the Zirbenwald are almost 400 years old - and the “survivors” of a devastating forest fire in 1880. The pine forest today covers around 20 hectares, and its best-known resident is a brown-speckled mountain bird, the Nutcracker (in tirolish: ‘Gratschn’), whose main food is pine seeds. Another highlight are the marmots which inhabit the area.
Valley mobility
With public transport, conveniently & sustainably through the entire valley.