For a long time we have been looking for something that would entertain both us adults and children. And VIP excursion to a bee farm hit the spot. Or is it more like yellow? Either way - it was a day full of honey, laughter, unexpected discoveries and most importantly, real contact with the fascinating world of bees. And we fell in love with it!
First phase: The theory that really got us hooked
It started off in a relaxed way, in the comfortable surroundings of the apidomek, the owner (an enthusiast by the way) started telling us about the life of bees. And it wasn't just some dry talk - there were practical and clear tables with information made of honeycomb and examples of beekeeping tools. We learned about how the interstitial walls are made, how the honey meter works and what the bees have to do before the honey gets to the table. The kids absolutely devoured the microscoping. The stories were fun, funny and we were able to compete to see who could answer correctly the most times. Even our younger son was able to stay focused the whole time, which is proof that it was really fun. Meanwhile, my wife and I sampled the homemade mead and the kids sampled the sheep water. We ate a whole small jar of honey in the process.
The highlight of the theoretical part? The glass hive, in which we could see the bee life up close, yet safely.
Second stage: In suits, straight into the hive!
Then it came. We put on our bee suits (the kids were thrilled to look like little astronauts) and headed to the hives. And here's where we have to say this was a total blast! We pulled the honeycomb out of the hive, watched the bees in action, and even held the drones in our bare hands. The feeling you get when you are part of the bee buzz is indescribable.
What we must especially highlight, though, is that our son has had a huge fear of bees since he was a little boy. He was scared even at the mention of them. Thanks to a kind approach, a safe environment and a gradual introduction to bees, he was able to overcome his fear. At the end of the excursion, he even laughed while holding the drone in his hand. And for us parents, it was an absolutely touching moment.
We also tried our hand at honey bee work and can confirm that beekeeping is no fun. Especially when you're hauling heavy frames that weigh several kilograms and get all sticky with honey.
Sweet spot at the end
After all that experience, we had a fragrant workshop waiting for us. Making candles out of coloured interstitials. Everyone took home their own candles that smell like a whole beehive. My younger son was so excited that we had to buy candle making kits to take home. Now we have candles for about 10 years ahead :) But it was amazing to see how much he enjoyed it and even forgot about his cell phone and playing games on it.
Honey goodies, cosmetics etc can be bought on site so we didn't leave empty handed. For me I recommend rose pollen or pearl, super foods that cure everything.
It is no coincidence that the farm has won the "Experience in the countryside" and "Regional product - experience of the Bohemian Central Highlands" awards. For us, rightly so.
Close? You have to experience this!
The whole excursion is well prepared, authentic and yet safe (although a warning for allergy sufferers is in order). If you're looking for a meaningful family experience where you'll have fun, learn something and take away some beautiful scented creations, you've come to the right place.
And if someone in your house is afraid of bees? Here's your chance to break that fear. On our behalf, one big thank you and 11 out of 10 points!
