A valley committed to saving the European dark bee
The European dark bee, an iconic species of the Savoie mountains, plays a key role in maintaining the natural balance of the valley. In Saint-Martin-de-Belleville, the protection of these bees is just one of the local long-term initiatives aimed at safeguarding biodiversity and mountain farming practices.
V. Lottenberg
A key component of Alpine biodiversity
Perfectly suited to the Alpine climate, the hardy black bee makes a significant contribution to pollinating our mountain flora. This busy bee helps sustain local honey production, the abundance of flora on the mountain pastures, and biodiversity in the valley. By protecting this species, we are protecting the entire ecosystem of the precious but vulnerable mountain habitat.
A collective preservation effort
The Vallée des Belleville has been working to safeguard this native bee since 2016. A dedicated breeding apiary has been installed in the Vallée des Encombres to boost the reproduction of queen bees from local hives and keep the species genetically pure.
Conducted with the Parc national de la Vanoise and a group of passionate beekeepers, these initiatives are helping bee colonies to withstand the conditions that currently endanger them.
V. Lottenberg
V. Lottenberg
Saint-Martin-de-Belleville
Dark Bee and Nature Museum
At the region's heart, ‘Mellifera', a museum dedicated to nature and the dark bee, located at Plan de l'Eau des Bruyères in Les Menuires, plunges visitors in an amusing and educational manner into the fascinating world of bees and Alpine nature.
Inside a renovated mountain chalet, visitors enjoy an interactive experience that reveals the black bee's crucial role and the abundant plant and animal life of the local region.
Boasting both the Famille Plus and Esprit Parc national seals of approval, the Museum provides guided tours for adults and children, as well as workshops with a local beekeeper and honey-tasting sessions. Join a summer workshop for an introduction to beekeeping to learn more about this occupation and the world of pollinators.
