Bees are important. We know that by now, don’t we? They are the reason flowers and wild plants exist, the reason we have honey and nature is what it is. In an ideal world, we should protect them carefully and a beekeeper’s job is dedicated to doing just that. But what does a beekeeper do exactly and what is this propolis we so often hear is good for us? An upcoming workshop invites participants to explore the majestic world of bees and learn all about propolis.

Ecophysis Bee & Nature Centre in Vavla, Larnaca is organising day workshops on Sunday with propolis sessions, beekeeping tasks and a meal infused with honey. The workshops are part of the new programme by the Deputy Ministry of Tourism which offers several free seminars on traditional handicrafts and local rural activities.

The day will be split into two sessions. People can join the 11am to 1pm workshop or the 3pm to 5pm workshop to immerse themselves in the bee kingdom.

Upon arrival, participants will watch two short documentaries on the life and importance of bees as well as the threats they face, followed by a brief discussion about the production of propolis. In the same space visitors can observe the bees working inside a glass hive. Then, they will attend and participate in the entire production process of oil and tincture of propolis. Afterwards, guests will visit the laboratory for the export of honey and other beekeeping products before finally trying all kinds of honey produced in the last year as well as other beekeeping or processing products.

After the two-hour workshop, visitors will be invited to indulge in an outdoor meal of honey-cooked dishes. The rich meal includes fresh produce from the mountainous Larnaca region specially cooked with honey under the shade of the trees. Dishes cooked with honey, dessert, seasonal fruit and refreshing drinks are included in the meal. This part however has a fee of €14 per person or €5 for children aged 3 to 10 and you can choose to enjoy it at a table or on a mat on the grass for a relaxing picnic.

There is a discount of 15 per cent for families and groups of four or more people which should be mentioned when booking. And book soon, only a few days remain until the workshop and even fewer spots yet it is bound to be a fascinating day, close to nature and all that bees procreate.

Propolis Workshops

Day event at a bee farm learning about bees and propolis. Extra outdoor meal offered for a fee. July 18. 11am-1pm and 3pm-5pm. Meal 1pm-3pm. Free. Booking is necessary. Tel: 96-373013, [email protected]