Cyprus Leads the Way in Eco-Tourism: Over 1,000 Bee-Friendly Trees Planted Across Larnaca’s Villages to Support Bee Populations

Published on November 25, 2025

More than 1,000 bee-friendly trees and plants were recently planted throughout nine charming villages in Larnaca in a daring effort to guarantee the long-term sustainability of local bee populations. The Larnaca Tourism Board (ETAP), the recently formed Honey Network, and the Deputy Ministry of Tourism are working together on this massive project, which aims to improve ecotourism and strengthen the environment. In addition to promoting sustainable tourism in Cyprus, this project represents a major step toward protecting the delicate balance of nature.

The Purpose Behind the Project: Supporting Bees and the Environment

Bees play a critical role in the ecosystem, particularly in the pollination of plants, which directly influences food production and biodiversity. However, the global decline in bee populations has raised concerns about the health of ecosystems. In response, the Larnaca region has taken action by planting trees and plants that are specifically chosen to support local bee populations. This initiative focuses on providing bees with a continuous source of nectar throughout the year, ensuring their survival and promoting a healthier, greener environment for both locals and visitors.

The initiative, which took place on a Monday, involved planting a variety of species that are particularly beneficial to bees, such as callistemons, carob trees, almond trees, and aromatic plants like lavender. These plants were selected not only for their beauty and aroma but also for their staggered blooming periods, which means that bees will always have access to food, no matter the season. This effort highlights the importance of creating an environment where bees can thrive, contributing to the long-term sustainability of the natural world.

Bee Villages of Larnaca: A Unique Tourism Experience

The project unfolded across Larnaca’s nine “bee ”villages”—Ora, Odou, Melini, Vavatsinia, Ayioi Vavatsinias, Vavla, Kato Drys, Kato Lefkara, and Lagia. These villages, already known for their rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, have been selected to benefit from the tree-planting initiative due to their strong connection with beekeeping traditions. The planting event was held in Ora, where the trees and plants were distributed for phased planting over time. This method ensures that the community can manage the planting process efficiently, without overwhelming local resources.

Each of these villages holds its own unique appeal, with stunning landscapes, charming architecture, and a deep-rooted tradition in honey production. The planting of these bee-friendly trees not only enhances the local ecosystem but also strengthens the tourism potential of the area. Visitors to Larnaca can now experience the beauty of nature while knowing that their travel helps support sustainable farming and ecotourism.

Enhancing Ecotourism: The Role of Beekeeping Nature Trails and Parks

The project is not just about planting trees; it is part of a wider strategy to promote Larnaca’s beekeeping heritage and boost its ecotourism appeal. Among the key projects already completed are two beekeeping nature trails. These trails guide visitors through scenic paths where they can learn about beekeeping, the role of bees in the environment, and the importance of pollination. The trails are designed to educate both tourists and locals, highlighting the critical role bees play in sustaining local agriculture and natural beauty.

Additionally, upgrades have been made to three children’s “bee parks”, which offer interactive experiences aimed at educating younger generations about the importance of bees in an engaging and fun way. These parks are expected to become an integral part of Larnaca’s tourism infrastructure, providing a space for families to enjoy the outdoors while learning about sustainability.

Digital Mapping and Promotion: Showcasing Larnaca’s Bee-Friendly Landscape

The planting initiative also involves the digital mapping and broader promotion of the nine bee villages. This step is crucial for showcasing the unique character of the region and drawing attention to its ecotourism potential. With more tourists looking for sustainable and nature-focused travel experiences, this initiative aligns perfectly with the growing demand for eco-friendly destinations.

By incorporating modern technology and digital promotion, the tourism board is ensuring that Larnaca’s bee-friendly initiatives reach a global audience. Digital maps and interactive content will help tourists easily locate the bee villages and access detailed information about the environmental efforts being made. The wider promotion of these initiatives will not only benefit the local economy but also inspire other regions to adopt similar eco-friendly projects.

The Continued Growth of Larnaca’s Eco-Tourism Identity

The work to promote Larnaca as a bee-friendly destination is far from over. Plans are already underway for new projects and initiatives designed to further highlight the region’s distinctive beekeeping landscape. These will include additional planting efforts, expanded nature trails, and the development of more educational resources for visitors.

As ecotourism continues to grow in popularity, Larnaca is positioning itself as a leading destination for travellers who are eager to explore nature while supporting sustainable practices. The planting of bee-friendly trees is just one example of how the region is embracing environmental stewardship and creating opportunities for responsible tourism. Visitors to Larnaca will not only experience the beauty of the area but also contribute to the preservation of its natural resources.

Community Involvement: A Collective Effort for Sustainability

The success of this project is due in large part to the involvement of local communities. Officials from the nine villages, as well as local residents, participated actively in the planting event, ensuring that the initiative was rooted in the local context. Their engagement demonstrates a commitment to environmental sustainability and to preserving the unique heritage of the region for future generations.

Moreover, the collaboration between the Larnaca Tourism Board, the Honey Network, and the Deputy Ministry of Tourism has proved to be a successful model for public-private partnerships in promoting sustainable tourism. The combined efforts of government agencies, local communities, and businesses will continue to drive the region’s ecotourism efforts, ensuring that Larnaca remains a leader in environmentally conscious travel.

The Future of Bee-Friendly Tourism in Larnaca

It is anticipated that as this project develops, more efforts to protect the local environment and promote ecotourism in Larnaca will be sparked. More tourists looking for environmentally friendly travel experiences will undoubtedly be drawn to the area due to its unique character, rich cultural legacy, and dedication to sustainability.

In conclusion, the recent planting of more than 1,000 trees and plants throughout the nine bee villages in Larnaca is more than just a local environmental project; it is an essential step in guaranteeing the survival of bee populations and boosting the area’s appeal as a top ecotourism destination. The region’s sustainable tourism industry will continue to flourish thanks to the cooperative efforts of the Larnaca Tourism Board, the Honey Network, and the Deputy Ministry of Tourism. Larnaca will surely flourish as a symbol of cultural heritage and environmental sustainability as long as the planting goes on.