🌱🍯The island’s diverse flora—including thyme, sage, heather, and wild herbs—makes its honey among the most aromatic in the Cyclades. Local beekeepers still use traditional and sustainable practices, respecting both the bees and the environment. Taking part in a beekeeping workshop or visiting a honey farm is an excellent way to learn about this essential part of rural life, while directly supporting local producers.

1. Melisses of Andros (Apikia)

Description:

Located near the green village of Apikia, this family-run beekeeping farm offers :

• guided tours of their hives, educational sessions on bee behavior, and tastings of various honeys (thyme, pine, wildflower).
• Visitors can also learn how bees contribute to pollination and ecosystem health.
• The tour ends with a visit to the small honey museum and a shop with local products.

Why it’s sustainable ? :

• The apiary uses traditional wooden hives and follows low-impact methods.
• Supporting them helps preserve local biodiversity and traditions.

Website : mélisse andros

2. Cyclades Organic Farm (near Gavrio)

Description:

Situated near the port of Gavrio, this organic farm combines beekeeping with eco-farming and herbal cultivation.

• Workshops include hands-on beekeeping activities, honey extraction, and organic farming principles.
• It’s ideal for eco-conscious travelers interested in sustainable food systems.

Why it’s sustainable ?:

• The farm operates entirely organically and educates visitors on the importance of pollinators in local food chains.

Website: abritel.fr

3. Local Honey Tasting at Andros’ Open-Air Markets (Batsi & Chora)

Description:

While not a beekeeping experience per se, visiting the local markets in Chora or Batsi offers a chance to meet honey producers, taste different types of honey, and purchase directly from the source.

• Some stalls also sell honeycomb, royal jelly, and beeswax-based cosmetics.

Why it’s sustainable ? :

• By supporting local markets, you reduce your ecological footprint and contribute directly to small-scale island producers.

Website:

Listings vary seasonally—check Google Maps or ask your accommodation for market days and stall recommendations.

 Example: batsis.

Conclusion:

🌍Beekeeping in Andros is deeply tied to the island’s biodiversity, agriculture, and culture. Participating in these activities allows travelers to support local traditions, learn about pollinator protection, and enjoy truly sustainable and delicious products. It’s a sweet way to connect with the land and its people.