Mount Havana, located in the heart of Gampola, Sri Lanka, among green landscapes, is a symbol of luxury and a champion of sustainable methods and environmental stewardship. Mount Havana offers a beekeeping experience that promotes sustainability, education, and an appreciation for nature’s intricacies, among other eco-friendly activities.
Bee Populations
Globally, pollinators play a crucial role in pollinating about 75% of the world’s flowering plants and nearly 35% of crops. Without these hardworking critters, our food supply would be radically different, as many fruits, nuts, and vegetables we eat rely on bees for pollination. Despite their importance, bee numbers are rapidly dropping due to pesticide use, habitat loss, and climate change. Millions of beehives have been lost over the last decade, endangering not only biodiversity but also global food security.
The Buzzing Beginnings
Bee farming at Mount Havana is more than just harvesting honey; it’s an educational journey through the bee’s life cycle and its critical part in our ecology. The process begins with an awareness of the various sorts of bees in a colony, each with a distinct role in maintaining the hive’s health and productivity. From the diligent worker bees to the nurturing queen, each bee contributes to the colony’s success.
Smoke and Harmony
One of the most fascinating features of beekeeping is the use of smoke. Smoke is softly injected into the hive to relax the bees and make them less inclined to sting. This age-old technique is fascinating to observe and essential for properly inspecting hives. Smoke replicates the effect of a forest fire, causing bees to consume honey in preparation for evacuation, making them less aggressive and simpler to control. Visitors to Mount Havana can witness this delicate balance, as the beekeeper expertly employs just enough smoke to soothe the bees without causing them distress.
From Hive to Honey
For many visitors, the highlight is the extraction procedure, which involves harvesting the sweet, golden honey directly from the combs. This hands-on exercise not only shows guests where their food originates from but also emphasises the significance of sustainable food production. Mount Havana’s honey is a pure, organic product free of commercial processing, with a taste as natural as the environment from which it is derived.
The Impact of Beekeeping on Local Biodiversity
Bees have an important role in pollinating adjacent ecosystems, in addition to producing honey. A single bee colony is reported to pollinate up to 300 million flowers per day. The beekeeping effort is only one component of Mount Havana’s overall commitment to sustainability. Our villa is situated on 25 acres of beautiful land that consists of verdant gardens and mixed farmland. The land is managed using sustainable practices. These measures ensure that the area around the bees is free of dangerous pesticides, creating a safe habitat for them and other species.
Furthermore, Mount Havana’s location provides beautiful views of the Knuckles Mountain Range and Adam’s Peak, creating an unforgettable setting for our guests. The luxurious lodgings, together with our devotion to the environment and the local community, make for an outstanding experience.
Educational Outreach and Guest Engagement
The beekeeping experience at Mount Havana is carefully scheduled to align with the natural rhythms of bee activity and to ensure the best experience for both the bees and our guests. The best time to visit the beehive is in the morning, between 8 and 10 a.m., when the bees are most active and the temperature is lower, making it easier to handle the hives and observe the bees’ behaviour.
Education is an important part of our beekeeping experience. Mount Havana provides guided tours in which visitors can wear protective gear and learn about the complexities of bee behaviour, hive management, and the essential role bees play in the ecosystem. These encounters are not only enriching but also eye-opening, leaving guests with a greater understanding of the importance of bees in our world.
Conclusion
Mount Havana is more than just a destination; it’s a doorway to enjoying the perfect combination of opulent lifestyle and environmental stewardship. Set against the gorgeous background of Gampola, near the historic city of Kandy, our villa provides a one-of-a-kind blend of calm and adventure. Whether you’re a nature lover, an aspiring beekeeper, or simply inquisitive about the origins of your food, Mount Havana offers a rewarding adventure that enhances every visit to this exquisite Sri Lankan retreat.
Each visit to Mount Havana provides an opportunity to unwind in luxury while also participating in important, sustainable practices that make a difference. Beekeeping is just one of the ways we connect with nature and increase awareness of its beauty. Our guests leave with memories of the stunning landscapes and luxurious amenities, as well as a newfound appreciation for the natural world.
During your visit, we encourage you to discover Mount Havana’s distinct features. Mount Havana offers the ideal blend of luxury and nature, and your stay has a good impact on the environment. Book your stay at Mount Havana and discover the true meaning of eco-friendly luxury.
