The honeycomb cottage is where the gentle hum of bees and the soothing scent of honey fill the air. Our innovative design brings you closer to nature, with a "bee side" on the south and west sides to fill the beds with the amazing aroma. You are separated from the thriving activity via a screen. Meanwhile, on the calm "human side", you can relax on a comfortable bench, safely above the hives, and breathe in the benefits of "beehive air".

Inspired by the European practice of apitherapy, our Honeycomb Cottage offers a unique experience of "Hive Aerosol Apitherapy". Indulge in the same beneficial properties found in honey, said to promote health and wellness. Whether you're seeking relaxation, rejuvenation or a family/ small group once in a lifetime experience, the Honeycomb cottage can provide you with what you need.

Indulge in the sweet serenity of our apiary! Spend a session surrounded by the intoxicating aromas of cedar and honey, crafted by our busy bees as they collect nectar from up to 1,000 flowers daily. As the bees work a mesmerizing vapor is released, carrying amino acids, vitamins, and antioxidants. The soothing hum of tens of thousands of wings creates a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for meditation, relaxation, and even a rejuvenating nap. Let the stress melt away and your senses come alive in our enchanting Honeycomb Cottage.

Apitherapy is a broader term that encompasses various bee-related therapies. While beehive air therapy is a specific type of apitherapy that involves breathing in the air from a beehive to potentially reap health benefits.

Beehive Air Therapy, also known as Bee Air Therapy or Api-Air Therapy, is a specific type of apitherapy.

It involves inhaling the air from an active beehive, which is rich in aerosolized bee-derived compounds, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), terpenes, and phenolic acids.

These compounds are believed to have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties, which may contribute to potential health benefits.

With approximately half a million bees we take precautions seriously.

But don't worry, we've got you covered!

To minimize the chance of getting stung:

- Be "smell-neutral" (avoid perfumes, colognes, etc.)

- Avoid white clothing (bees might confuse you with our beekeeper!)

- Wear red (bees can't see it!)

- Stand to the side or behind beehives

- Approach the Honeycomb cottage on the front door and people side. 

- Walk away calmly if a bee approaches

- Hold still if a bee lands on you

- Avoid swatting or waving arms 

- If you do get stung, don't panic! Remove the stinger promptly and let us know. We're here to help and ensure your safety

Breathing beehive vapor, or "Hive Aerosol Apitherapy," is a recognized treatment in several countries for respiratory issues like asthma and bronchitis.
We're homesteaders, not medical professionals, but we want to share the magic of bees with you! Research suggests many potential health benefits.

Here are some other links that provide more information on the positive benefits of breathing beehive air:

- Study from Saudi Arabia

- Healthy With Honey

- Hey Sweet Drop

- "How Slovenia uses the sound of bees to relax"

- The Bee Therapy House

Remember, if you're considering using Bee Huts for medical treatment, consult your doctor or medical professional first.

We are located in scenic Stillwater, Minnesota. The address to Honeycomb Cottage will be provided when your appointment is scheduled.

Yes you need to book in advance.
You can do so on the Appointments & Packages page.

Our small group package is capped at 7 people providing the opportunity to accompany families and groups large or small.

Guests of all ages are welcome to join us, and we kindly ask that you respect the peaceful atmosphere.
To aid in the experience of serene beauty, we try to maintain a quiet environment to help you fully connect with the bees and nature. 

You should arrive 10-15 min early for your first experience of the Honeycomb Cottage! That allows us time to answer questions and tell you what to expect. 

Please arrive on time for your appointment. Our scheduled times are exact, so if you're running late, it may impact your experience. If there's a booking immediately after yours, we'll still need to end your session on time. But don't worry, if there's no one scheduled after you, we'll do our best to ensure you get the full Honeycomb Cottage experience. We want to make sure you have a wonderful time with our bees!

You can book a 25 or 55 minute appointment with the bees. At your first session we will walk you in at the beginning and at the end of the session come gently knock on the door when your time is concluded.

No food or beverages other than water.
Bees have a super powerful sense of smell - 170 odor receptors that are 100 times stronger than ours! So, we avoid strong scents that might annoy them or attract them to the wrong side. To ensure a wonderful experience for all, we kindly ask that you refrain from bringing perfumes, colognes, deodorants, hand creams, hair products, and anything else with a strong odor into the Bee Huts. Water is welcome and encouraged, though! Let's keep the air fresh and the bees buzzing with joy!