"Where the May tree kisses the elderflower"
Fresh spring cuisine & experiences - all May long!
May 01 to 31, 2025
in the entire Almenland Nature Park
As the last remnants of snow disappear from the mountain pastures and the first messengers of spring appear, a dense sea of blossom spreads across the valleys. The bright yellow of the dandelion meadows, the purple crocuses and the white of the beautiful snowdrops combine with the lush green of the meadows and forests, the blue of the sky and the bright, warm sun to create a magnificent spring symphony!
This is the time of the "Fresh Spring Awakening in the Almenland Nature Park"!
Taste the spring - make your plate bloom:
Under the motto "spring-fresh cuisine", the Almenland invite you to enjoy creative, spring-like dishes. Whether dandelion burgers, wild garlic risotto, dandelion dumplings with spinach sauce, hiking snacks, energy drinks and much more. Spring is on the table here! And there are also workshops, cooking courses and seminars where you can learn a lot about the heralds of spring and turn them into unique dishes yourself.
Spring-fresh experiences - nature, body & soul blossom:
"May makes everything new" says an old proverb - and this is exactly the case in the Almenland Nature Park. In May, not only does nature come back to radiant life, but body and mind also awaken from hibernation and are filled with new energy. Whether it's forest bathing, yoga on the mountain pasture, a nature park hike, tastings or herbal workshops with the spring bringers - it's all balm for the soul. A relaxing spring vacation awaits you!
In addition to the classic heralds of spring such as wild garlic, dandelion and daisies, we also bring two inconspicuous heralds of spring to the fore: "Where the May tree kisses the elderflower".
"Where the May tree kisses the elderflower"
In addition to the classic heralds of spring such as wild garlic, dandelion and daisies, we also bring two inconspicuous heralds of spring to the fore: "Where the May tree kisses the elderflower".
These two harbingers of spring not only represent the tireless cycle of nature, but are also valuable treasures for health, agriculture and the culinary arts. While the bright green May apple tree marks the beginning of new growth, the radiant white elderflower indicates the transition from spring to summer. Together they accompany us through the entire month of May - a time full of discoveries, delights and natural experiences.
The Maiwipferl
Herald of spring & nature's source of strength
The Maiwipferl, the young shoots of the spruce, is one of the first signs of spring. With its bright green color, it stands for new beginnings, growth and the irrepressible power of nature. It supplies the trees with new energy and signals the start of a new life cycle. It provides food for wild animals, protects the forest with its resilience and gives us natural healing power with its essential oils and valuable ingredients - ideal for the respiratory tract and immune system. A small miracle of spring that shows how lively and powerful nature is awakening!
The healing powers of the Maiwipferl
They are not only beautiful to look at, but also a natural source of strength for humans. They contain valuable essential oils, resins and vitamin C. These ingredients have a beneficial effect on the respiratory tract and support the immune system.
- Cough suppressant and cold protection: Maiwipferl syrup or tea helps to clear the airways, loosens stuck mucus and relieves coughing.
- Anti-inflammatory: The antibacterial effect of maiwipferl helps with inflammation in the mouth and throat.
- Invigorating and refreshing: after the long winter, the Maiwipferl gives the body new energy and supports the metabolism.
Culinary use
Maiwipferl have a fresh, resinous, lemony aroma that is wonderful in the kitchen:
- As a syrup for refreshing drinks or for sweetening tea
- Pickled in honey as a natural remedy
- Dried as a tea to strengthen the immune system
- As a fine ingredient in desserts or herb butter
These remind us that nature is not only beautiful, but also nourishing and healing - a gift of spring.
The elderflower
Symbol of spring and healing
The elderflower is a true harbinger of spring, heralding the awakening of nature with its delicate fragrance and white flowers. It stands for renewal and fertility and has a long tradition in naturopathy. Its flowers are known for their healing properties, strengthen the immune system and help with colds. A symbolic gift from nature that marks the transition from spring to summer and refreshes body and mind with its healing properties.
The black elderberry - the tree of life
The black elder (Sambucus nigra) is a true wonder of nature. It has been considered a sacred tree for centuries, symbolizing protection, fertility and renewal. No other tree accompanies the annual cycle so impressively:
- In spring, it opens its fragrant white flowers, which attract pollinators and bring life to the plant.
- In summer it bears lush flowers and shows itself in its full splendor.
- In the fall, its deep black berries ripen, providing food for humans and animals.
- In winter it stands bare and dormant - but its roots are full of strength for the coming spring.
The elderflower is one of the most important indicator plants in the course of the year. Its appearance marks the transition from spring to summer and, in traditional agriculture, signals that the first hay harvest is imminent. Farmers knew that when the elderflower blooms, spring is finally over and the warmest time of the year begins.
Healing power of elderberry
Elderberry is considered one of the most versatile medicinal plants:
- The flowers have a diaphoretic and antipyretic effect and help with colds.
- The berries are rich in vitamin C and strengthen the immune system.
- The leaves and bark were once used for ointments and tinctures.
Culinary use
The elderberry gives us an abundance of pleasure:
- Elderflower syrup for refreshing drinks and cocktails
- Hollerküchlein - baked flowers in dough
- Elderberry jelly or juice for a healthy boost
- Elderberry wine or liqueur for special moments of pleasure
Tourismusverband Oststeiermark
Nature Park Office Almenland
Fladnitz 100
8163 Fladnitz an der Teichalm
Phone: 0043 3179/23000
E-mail: almenland (at) oststeiermark. com
