Switzerland Tourism has launched something special for this summer: the Bees & Friends campaign. An initiative where nature, sustainability and travel come together, with the bee taking centre stage. And let’s be honest: that instantly makes your trip just that little bit different. Not a standard list of highlights, but travelling with purpose. Staying overnight in places that take biodiversity into account, walking through flower-filled meadows and even sleeping in or near a beehive.
In this blog, I’ll share six unique locations in Switzerland where bees take centre stage, explain what makes these bee huts so special, and give you practical tips for a bee-friendly city break or nature trip through Switzerland.
What is the Bees & Friends campaign?
Through the Bees & Friends campaign, Switzerland is committed to protecting bees and their habitats. Across the country, you’ll find initiatives that contribute to biodiversity: from flower-filled gardens to special bee hotels and sustainable accommodation.
What do I particularly like about it? As a traveller, you can simply be part of it. By choosing certain hotels or activities, you directly contribute to a healthier natural environment. And that’s desperately needed, because bees play a crucial role in our ecosystem. They pollinate a large proportion of the plants and crops we eat. Without bees, many varieties of vegetables, fruit and flowers would disappear, with major consequences for both biodiversity and our food supply. So, by protecting bees, we’re actually protecting our entire environment.
Staying at bee-friendly hotels
During your trip, you’ll soon notice that more and more hotels are paying attention to their surroundings. You’ll stay in places where bees have been given a permanent home in the garden of the hotel itself, where flowers are planted with care, and where local produce takes centre stage. What makes these places particularly special is that, as a guest, you often become a real part of the story.
1. Hotel Eden Roc
Ascona, in the canton of Ticino in southern Switzerland
At Hotel Eden Roc, you can truly become part of bee life. Accompanied by a beekeeper, you’ll walk past the beehives and learn all about the bees and their work. You can even harvest your own honey – a unique experience where you literally see how the sweetest products are made. Later, you’ll taste this honey at breakfast or in the hotel’s dishes, completing the ‘from bee to plate’ experience.
An interesting fact: Hotel Eden Roc also has a rich history. Take the La Casetta restaurant, for example. It was here that the peace talks were held at the end of the Second World War.
Why would you want to stay here?
At Hotel Eden Roc, you’ll stay right on the shores of Lake Maggiore, with your own private beach, sun loungers by the water and views of the Ticino mountains. The atmosphere here feels almost Mediterranean: palm trees, lakeside terraces and plenty of sunshine mean you might even forget you’re actually in Switzerland. Fancy a bit of relaxation? Then head to the extensive wellness centre or head straight out onto the lake by boat or on a SUP.
2. Swiss Youth Hostel Grindelwald
Grindelwald, a mountain village in the Bernese Oberland
In Grindelwald, you’ll find one of the most creative beehives at the Swiss Youth Hostel. The beehive has been designed as a mini-accommodation, complete with views of the mountains and the starry sky. It’s a striking example of how design and nature go hand in hand.
The hostel itself is modern, accessible and geared towards sustainable travellers, with shared facilities and a strong focus on experiencing nature.
Why would you want to stay here?
At Swiss Youth Hostel Grindelwald, you’ll stay right amidst the famous mountain peaks of the Bernese Oberland, with views of the Eiger, amongst others. From the hostel, you can walk or ski straight into the great outdoors, making this a truly ideal base for outdoor enthusiasts. The hostel itself is modern and stylishly furnished, featuring plenty of wood, large windows and cosy communal areas where travellers gather after a day in the mountains. The panoramic views from the lounge and terrace, in particular, make this place truly special.
3. Hotel Bergwelt Grindelwald
In the heart of the Swiss Alps, with views of the Eiger, amongst others
At Hotel Bergwelt Grindelwald, everything revolves around the local honey experience. The hotel has its own bee colonies, which are looked after by a local beekeeper. This not only produces delicious fresh honey but also offers an educational experience for guests: you learn about bees and their role in nature whilst enjoying the products. It makes for a particularly bee-friendly stay.
The hotel itself combines modern design with Alpine influences and offers comfortable rooms, wellness facilities and a strong focus on local produce.
Why would you want to stay here?
At Bergwelt Grindelwald, you’ll wake up to views of the Eiger, whilst your balcony literally looks out over the Alps. The hotel combines a modern boutique feel with warm alpine touches such as wood, natural stone and cosy open fireplaces. After a day’s hiking or skiing, you can relax in the Fire & Ice Spa, which features several saunas, a steam room, an ice fountain and heated pools. Another highlight: the hotel makes extensive use of local produce from the region, so you can truly savour the flavours of the Swiss Alps at breakfast and dinner.
Various bee hotels
What makes this campaign particularly special is that the bee hotels haven’t simply been placed anywhere. Each design has been tailored to the surroundings and the hotel itself. As a result, no two bee hotels are the same, and they all tell their own story.
For example, in mountainous areas you’ll often find beehives built from wood that resemble small chalets, so they blend in well with the landscape.
1. Six Senses Crans-Montana
A luxury mountain resort in the canton of Valais in the Swiss Alps
At Six Senses Crans-Montana, the beehives have been designed in the same style as the hotel, complete with the typical sloping roofs of the Alps. These are not just ordinary beehives, but small architectural masterpieces that blend perfectly into the mountain landscape. This way, bees enjoy a safe environment in their ‘bee hotel’ whilst guests enjoy a stunning view.
The hotel is also renowned for its focus on wellness, sustainability and high-quality architecture.
Why would you want to stay here?
At this hotel, you can look out over the Alpine forest from your balcony. The luxury hotel exudes the atmosphere of a Swiss chalet and brings guests into contact with nature thanks to its light and airy style, huge bay windows and doors opening onto a private terrace. Natural materials have also been used in the design of our accommodation in Crans-Montana, from quartzite stone façades to locally sourced larch and oak timber and slate roofs. Would you like to truly unwind during your stay? Then be sure to visit the hotel’s wellness centre and spa.
2. Beau-Rivage Palace
On the shores of Lake Geneva in western Switzerland
In a completely different setting, such as at the Beau-Rivage Palace in Lausanne, you’ll find Bee Rivage, a unique bee sanctuary designed by architects. It’s situated in the hotel’s garden and has been constructed as a small ecosystem, with different nesting sites for various bee species.
The hotel itself has a rich history and offers classic luxury, with extensive gardens and views over the lake.
Why would you want to stay here?
At Beau-Rivage Palace, you’ll stay in one of Lausanne’s most iconic hotels, right on the shores of Lake Geneva. From the garden, you can stroll straight down to the water’s edge, whilst on the other side you’ll have views of the Alps. You’re also just a short walk from the city centre. What makes this place so special is the contrast between the city and nature. You’re close to the centre of Lausanne, yet at the same time surrounded by greenery, flowers and biodiversity.
“ Did you know? Some hotels have roofs sown with flowers and herbs, so that bees can always find food. ”
MySwitzerland
3. Villa Carona
A picturesque village near Lugano in the sunny canton of Ticino
Villa Carona’s bee house is a miniature version of the historic villa itself, featuring the same colours and classic details. Set amidst a lush Mediterranean garden full of flowers, it is home to around 30,000 bees.
The design takes into account both the environment and the needs of bees. For example, natural materials have been chosen, along with ample shelter and a peaceful location. The garden surrounding the hotel plays an important role in this: it is rich in flowers and plants that attract bees and provide them with food. Biodiversity is also taken into account by avoiding harmful pesticides.
The hotel itself is small-scale and charming, with a strong focus on fine dining, tranquillity and personalised service.
Why would you want to stay here?
The hotel is situated in a small, quiet village near Lugano and is surrounded by a Mediterranean garden full of flowers, citrus trees and shaded terraces where bees find plenty of food. Inside, it’s all about charm and character: antique details, colourful rooms and an intimate atmosphere that makes your stay feel very personal. You’re also in for a culinary treat here. The hotel is renowned for its strong focus on gastronomy and local ingredients from Ticino. As a result, you not only get a taste of the local area, but you also truly experience the tranquil way of life in southern Switzerland.
You may have already noticed: travelling with a focus on nature and biodiversity not only makes your trip more sustainable, but also a lot more special. With the Bees & Friends campaign, you can discover Switzerland in a way that is peaceful, local and SPECIAL.
Here’s a tip from me: let go of your plans a little and just follow the buzz.
Love,
Fenna
Read more about Switzerland Tourism’s Bees & Friends campaign.
The summer months (July and August) are the most beautiful. That’s when the flowers are in bloom and the bees are at their most active, allowing you to truly experience the countryside.
Would you rather visit Switzerland in winter? Then have a read of *The Grand Train Tour through Switzerland*
Yes, in some parts of Switzerland you can stay in or near a beehive. These are often small-scale accommodations surrounded by nature, designed to offer peace and a unique experience.
Curious about which hotels? Think of Hotel Eden Roc or the Swiss Youth Hostel featured in this blog.
Absolutely. Even if you’re simply looking for a peaceful and special trip, these places are well worth a visit. You’ll notice, above all, that the surroundings feel greener and more relaxed.
Are you a true nature lover looking for something a little closer to home? Then do have a read of: 6 trips with the forest ranger
Bees play an essential role in the ecosystem by pollinating flowers and plants. This is necessary not only for the growth of fruit, vegetables and flowers, but also for the preservation of entire landscapes and biodiversity. Without bees, many plants would be unable to reproduce, which would ultimately affect animals and the food supply for people.
Would you like to know which hidden gems in the Netherlands have a connection to bees? Then have a read of: 6 sustainable flower-picking gardens in the Netherlands or 6 flower and tulip fields in the Netherlands away from the crowds
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