Bee Activities & Beekeeping Classes
at Hemlock Neversink

Connect with Nature's Most Vital Pollinators in the Heart of the Catskills

At Hemlock Neversink, our vision of wellness extends beyond traditional spa treatments to embrace the profound connection between humans and nature. Our beekeeping classes and honey tasting experiences offer guests the unique opportunity to learn from expert beekeepers while supporting the vital pollinators that enrich our 230-acre mountain sanctuary.

Whether you're seeking a bee class to deepen your understanding of these remarkable creatures or hoping to develop your palate as a honey sommelier, our programs provide both education and enchantment in equal measure.

Watercolor illustration of a tall green pine tree with a bunny sitting underneath on fallen leaves.

The Bee Check: Expert-Led Beekeeping Classes

Follow the Expert

Join Bill, our resident expert beekeeper, for intimate hive inspections that reveal the fascinating world within our active beehive farm. These hands-on beekeeping classes transform curiosity into knowledge as you witness the intricate dance of thousands of bees working in perfect harmony.

What You'll Experience:

  • Safe, guided entry into our active beehives

  • Learn to identify the queen, workers, and drones

  • Understand seasonal hive behavior and bee communication

  • Observe honey production and comb construction

  • Hands-on experience with beekeeping tools and techniques

Honey Tasting: Become a Honey Sommelier
Location: Neversink, New York in the Catskills (just 2 hours from NYC)

Awaken Your Senses

Our honey tasting classes offer more than just sweetness—they're a journey through the terroir of the Catskills. Like wine, honey carries the essence of its landscape, and our expert-guided tastings will train your palate to discern the subtle differences that make each variety unique.

2026 Beelicious Honey Tasting Schedule
First Saturday of every month. Please call ahead to confirm, schedules are subject to change.

Honey
Bees 
Our Living Beehive Farm: 230 Acres of Pollinator Paradise

Hemlock Neversink serves as a thriving beehive farm where our resident colonies contribute to the rich ecosystem of our mountain property. Our wildflower-filled meadows provide diverse nectar sources throughout the growing season, while our 70+ year-old apple trees offer spring blossoms and autumn abundance.

Seasonal Bee Activities on Our Farm:

  • Spring: Apple blossom honey production and new colony inspections

  • Summer: Peak foraging season with wildflower honey harvesting

  • Fall: Final honey collection and hive preparation

  • Winter: Colony monitoring and equipment maintenance

Supporting Natural Pollinators

Beyond our managed hives, our property supports native bee species, butterflies, and other pollinators essential to our mountain ecosystem. Every bee class includes education about these wild cousins and their crucial environmental role.

Our vision of wellness isn't about achieving perfection. It's about achieving happiness, having fun, and feeling restored.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hemlock Neversink’s Bee Activities

  • Not at all! Our beekeeping classes welcome complete beginners through experienced apiarists. Expert beekeeper Bill tailors each session to the group's experience level, ensuring everyone learns something new while feeling comfortable and safe.

  • Absolutely. We provide all necessary protective equipment including full bee suits, gloves, and veils. Our expert beekeepers guide every interaction, and we work with gentle, well-managed colonies. While bee stings are rare during our supervised activities, please inform us of any known bee allergies when booking.

  • All bee activities are complimentary for overnight guests, including The Bee Check hive inspections, honey tasting classes, and access to our beehive farm areas. This is part of our all-inclusive daily wellness programming, along with spa facility access and three farm-fresh meals.

  • Many guests discover their fear transforms into fascination once they understand bee behavior. Our gentle approach allows you to observe from a comfortable distance initially, and our expert guidance helps build confidence. You're never required to get closer than feels comfortable.

  • We provide all protective equipment, but we recommend wearing long pants and closed-toe shoes underneath. Light-colored, smooth fabrics work best. Avoid strong perfumes or scented products, as these can agitate bees.

  • Yes! Our bee program follows the natural seasonal rhythm. Spring through fall features active hive inspections and honey production, while winter activities include hive winterization and educational sessions about bee biology and beekeeping equipment.

  • We keep groups small—typically 8-12 guests maximum—to ensure personalized attention, safety, and meaningful interaction with our colonies. This intimate setting allows for plenty of questions and hands-on learning.

  • Absolutely. We can arrange private beekeeping sessions for couples, families, or groups. These customized experiences can include extended hive time, specialized topics, or combination packages with our other wellness activities.

  • Light rain doesn't stop our bee activities—bees continue working, and our protective gear keeps you dry! However, we'll reschedule during severe weather for safety. Indoor alternatives include honey tasting sessions and educational presentations about bee biology.

  • Following our property policy, bee activities are available for guests 16 and older. This ensures safety and allows for more advanced educational content. Check our sibling properties for family-friendly alternatives.

  • While bee activities are included with overnight stays, we recommend booking accommodations well in advance, especially for our popular Honey & Hive Weekend during Memorial Day. Specific activity slots are assigned upon arrival based on availability.

  • You're welcome to bring personal equipment if you prefer, but it's not necessary. Our gear is professionally maintained and suitable for all experience levels. We're happy to discuss equipment recommendations if you're interested in starting your own beekeeping journey.