Three larch trees - witnesses of times past

These three larch trees, to be found near Santa Gertrude/Sankt Gertraud in Val d'Ultimo/Ultental, are considered to be the oldest conifers in Europe. Legend has it that these ancient larch trees are more than 2,000 years old, however, the decaying interior of the trees makes an accurate annual ring count almost difficult. In 1930 one uprooted larch was reported by count to have had close to 2,000 rings.

The maximum circumference of the thickest trunk is more than 8 meters - a very impressive tree indeed. The trees, which are more than 35 m high, show signs of storms and adverse weather conditions, and one tree top remains completely lifeless after a lightning strike.

But year after year, in the leaf flushing phase of spring, the larch trees assume a tender green color, demonstrating nature’s incredible survival instincts.
If you are in the area, make sure you don't miss out on this amazing natural phenomenon!