The arolla pine tree, also known as the stone pine, grows in South Tyrol in places where hardly any other trees may be found: high up in the mountains. It is an extremely hardy fir tree that can grow to 25 metres in height and live for 1000 years. Its needles, measuring four to eight centimetres in length, produce red pine cones every six to ten years. The arolla pine has always been appreciated thanks to its health benefits. Find out why here.

An all-round do-gooder

Arolla pine wood is in demand, yet the tree only makes up 6% of the forest in South Tyrol. It is not only this fact that makes it precious, but the positive effects that it has on people as well. Thanks to its relaxing and sleep-inducing properties, this wood finds its way into lots of farm bedrooms. From the bed to the bedside table to the wardrobe or wood panelling, arolla pine is everywhere. Even baby's cribs used to be made of arolla pine so that the babies would sleep better.
Why is this? The essential oils in the wood are the reason why. You don't just sleep better because of the pleasant fragrance, but your whole body benefits from the positive effects. Your nights staying on your dream farm will be a holiday for body and soul.
Another arolla pine superpower is its longevity. The characteristic resiny-spicy fragrance lasts for a long time and can linger for decades. Last but not least, this light-coloured resiny wood with dark branches looks really nice, too.
 

Fragrant moments of wellbeing

Inextricably linked with the arolla pine in South Tyrol are 'Stuben', or farm parlours. Parlours are still the cosiest spot on the farm and have always been a central gathering point in the farmhouse. The arolla pine used in these rooms makes for a pleasant atmosphere. The wall panelling and wooden ceilings as well as the traditional 'Eckbank' corner benches are typically made from this light-coloured wood. The cosy ambience created by arolla pine may be the reason why the parlour is a favourite place for many. The benefits of this wood are also put to use in Alpine wellness treatments and create feel-good moments, especially in the sauna. The fragrance of the wood can unfold thanks to the high temperatures in the sauna and provide a extra dose of relaxation with its aromatic scent. Still not enough? The precious oil from the arolla pine envelops you with the scent of pine needles, pine buds and branches during the traditional 'Aufguss', or infusion sauna. Sauna lovers will have a sauna experience that stays in their memories for some time.
 

From the workshop

Thanks to the varied uses of the arolla pine, it's no wonder that is has applications in the farm workshop. Arolla pine has soft, light properties and is particularly suitable for wood carving and turning. Artistic products for everyday use include fruit bowls or chopping boards, as well as delicate sculptures or decorations. Bread bins from arolla pine are particularly popular. The reason for this is as practical as it is mysterious. Bread has been proven to stay fresh longer in these wooden bins. Even the little curls resulting from wood planing have their uses, and may be used to fill home-made cushions or bags and bring the tree's fragrance into your bedroom.