Myli: Beekeeping Secrets Guided Tour with Traditional Meze

When you think of Greece, images of ancient ruins, crystal-clear waters, and delicious food probably come to mind. But on a trip to Naxos, you can add a fascinating, sweet twist to your itinerary with the Myli Beekeeping Secrets Guided Tour. This experience combines the charm of a traditional village walk, an eye-opening glimpse into the world of bees, and an authentic Greek meze dinner — all for around $229 per person.

One of the most enjoyable aspects? The opportunity to safely observe a working bee colony through a glass beehive, which perfectly blends education with entertainment. However, a potential drawback is the walk to the meeting point—a 10-minute, 300-meter path with stairs—which might not suit everyone.

This tour is perfect for travelers who love local, hands-on experiences and are curious about nature, food, and traditional Greek life. If you’re after a meaningful way to understand Naxos beyond beaches and ruins, it’s an excellent choice.

Key Points

• Authentic Village Setting: The tour starts with a walk through the picturesque village of Myli, featuring traditional houses and small streams.
• Educational & Interactive: Learn fascinating facts about bees, their behavior, and their vital role in our world.
• Hands-On Observation: See a real bee colony in a glass hive, with the chance to identify queen bees, eggs, larvae, and worker bees.
• Tasty Honey & Beekeeping Products: Sample various kinds of honey, pollen, and other hive products.
• Cultural & Culinary Experience: End with a traditional Greek meze dinner at a local café, full of surprises and seasonal delicacies.
• Flexible Booking & Local Insights: Book now with the option to pay later, and enjoy a tour that is guided in English and Greek.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting in the Village of Myli

The tour begins with a gentle walk through Myli, a village that radiates authenticity with its traditional stone houses, old cisterns, donkeys, and tiny streams. It’s an ideal setting that instantly transports you back in time, offering a serene contrast to the more touristy spots. The walk to the meeting point takes about 10 minutes from the main Chora, with a 300-meter path that includes some stairs.

Travelers note that the walk might be challenging for those with mobility issues or anyone uncomfortable with stairs. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a bit of light trekking and are prepared for an authentic village stroll.

The Fascinating World of Bees

Once gathered, the guide—who is usually well-informed and friendly—begins by sharing compelling facts about bees and their importance to both local and global ecosystems. Visitors love how approachable and passionate the guides are; one reviewer mentioned, “The guide was very knowledgeable and eager to answer all our questions about bees.”

The highlight is the opportunity to safely observe a working bee colony through a glass-paneled beehive. Seeing the bees in action, identifying the queen, eggs, larvae, and worker bees, provides a tangible connection to nature. It’s an experience that demystifies these tiny creatures and reveals their complex social structure.

Learning Beekeeping Secrets

Visitors are introduced to beekeeping equipment and practices used by local beekeepers. It’s fascinating to learn about how the bees are kept and cared for, and what products they provide: honey, pollen, beeswax, and royal jelly. Several reviews mention the surprise element—each stop offers new insights and samples.

One guest shared, “It was eye-opening to see how much effort goes into harvesting honey for the local market, and how traditional methods are still used.” This authentic approach means you’re not just a tourist; you’re getting a glimpse into a living craft that’s been passed down through generations.

Honey Tasting & Beekeeping Products

Tasting different varieties of honey is a true treat. The guide explains the differences between nectar, pollen, and honey, helping you appreciate the nuances of each. Alongside honey, you might sample pollen and other hive products, which enhances your understanding of their health benefits and culinary uses.

Many reviewers highlight that “the honey was delicious and diverse,” with some saying, “We tasted honey that was so fresh and fragrant, I couldn’t stop at just one spoon.” If you’re a foodie or just love natural flavors, this part of the tour is a definite highlight.

The Traditional Meze Dinner

After the educational part, the experience shifts to the culinary side. The tour concludes with a dinner at a local café, which is a charming, family-run hotel. Here, you’ll enjoy an assortment of local meze, which are small, shareable dishes, often seasonal and prepared the traditional way.

The owner’s approach is to keep it simple and authentic, so the menu varies daily based on what’s available — a true “surprise” element that many guests find delightful. The dishes are hearty, flavorful, and presented in a relaxed, welcoming setting. One reviewer mentioned, “The meze was a perfect showcase of Naxian flavors, simple yet delicious,” emphasizing the value of local, home-style cooking.

It’s also noteworthy that this café operates both as a shop for local honey, herbs, and beeswax products, giving you a chance to purchase souvenirs or gifts directly from the source.

Practical Details & Tips

• Transportation: Not included, but easily arranged. The village is 10 km from Naxos town (Chora), roughly a 15-minute drive.
• Accessibility: The walk involves stairs, so consider this if mobility is an issue.
• Weather & Timing: The tour is best enjoyed in mild weather; extreme heat or cold might require rescheduling.
• Allergies: If you have allergies to honey, pollen, or beeswax, it’s advisable to avoid this tour.
• Children: Under 3 years old cannot participate or sample beehive products, which is good to keep in mind.

Price & Value

At $229 per person, the tour offers a well-rounded, immersive experience. You’re paying for more than just the walk—you get educational insights, tastings, and a home-cooked meal. When you consider the value of the honey and products available for purchase, plus the unique opportunity to see a working hive in action, it’s a thoughtfully priced activity.

Many visitors highlight the quality of the guide and the genuine nature of the experience, making it feel like an authentic local activity rather than a commercialized attraction. If you love learning about local crafts, trying regional flavors, and experiencing Greece beyond its beaches, this tour provides strong value.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those interested in local traditions, natural foods, and hands-on learning. It’s suited for curious travelers, families (with children over 3), and anyone who enjoys a relaxed pace and authentic cultural encounters. If you’re someone who appreciates delicious, simple food and wants to see behind the scenes of a traditional craft, it’s a perfect fit.

On the flip side, if stairs or walking long distances are difficult, or if you have allergies to hive products, it might not be the best choice. Also, those seeking a fast-paced, high-energy tour might prefer more active options.

The Sum Up

The Myli Beekeeping Secrets Guided Tour offers a charming blend of education, culture, and culinary delight. You’ll walk through a picturesque village, learn about the critical role bees play in our ecosystems, and see a hive in action — a rare, engaging window into nature’s busy workers. The honey tasting and traditional meze meal add a flavorful, authentic finish, making it a well-rounded cultural experience.

This tour shines for its value for money, especially considering the opportunity to purchase local honey and products directly from the source. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to connect more deeply with Naxos’ local traditions, enjoy tasty food, and gain meaningful insights that go beyond typical sightseeing.

Overall, it feels less like a tourist trap and more like a heartfelt local activity, perfect for those eager to embrace the island’s authentic side. Whether you’re a food lover, nature enthusiast, or curious traveler, this experience will leave you with a new appreciation for bees, local craftsmanship, and Greek hospitality.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
No, transportation is not included. You can come with your own vehicle or arrange a taxi to the village, which is about 10 km from Naxos town.

How long is the walking part of the tour?
The walk to the meeting point takes around 10 minutes and involves a 300-meter path with stairs.

Can children participate?
Children under 3 years old cannot participate or try the beekeeping products.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking and stairs are recommended. No special gear is required, but dress appropriately for the weather.

Are the guide’s explanations in English?
Yes, the tour is guided in English and Greek.

What if I have allergies to honey or pollen?
It’s best to avoid the tour if you have allergies or intolerances related to hive products.

How much does the tour cost?
The price is approximately $229 per person, which includes the guided walk, honey tasting, samples of hive products, one drink, and a traditional meze dinner.

Is the honey tasting worth it?
Absolutely. Guests rave about the freshness and variety of honey, often describing it as a highlight of the experience.

Can I buy honey or other products?
Yes, the café/shop at the end of the tour offers honey, pollen, royal jelly, beeswax cream, herbs, and other local products for purchase.

Is the experience suitable for all weather conditions?
It’s best enjoyed in mild weather; in extreme conditions, the tour may be rescheduled.

If you’re after an authentic, educational, and delicious way to experience Naxos, the Myli Beekeeping Secrets Guided Tour is a honey of a choice. You’ll not only learn about bees but also taste the flavors of the island, all while supporting local traditions.