Last week the members who had booked for the SC&C Miel Montgo Walk gathered together at the Santuario de Nuestra Senora de los Angeles, which is on the road to the lighthouse, for an educational and scenic walk through the beautiful landscape of the Montgó Natural Park. Organized by Miel Montgó, the event offered an insight into local biodiversity, merging botany with the science of apiculture.
The excursion began with a guided walk led by botanist Jan van Eijle, who highlighted the unique ecological value of the region. He shared detailed insights into the native flora and fauna, explaining how these species adapt to the Mediterranean climate. We learned to identify several endemic plants and gained an appreciation for the delicate balance of the Montgó’s ecosystem.
Following the nature walk, the group gathered for an engaging presentation by Eduardo Fernández, an expert in apiculture. Eduardo demystified the intricate life of bees, explaining their complex social structures and critical role in global pollination. Eduardo also shared his vision of a dedicated ecological area within the Montgó Natural Park, with the aim of safeguarding local pollinator populations and serve as a living laboratory for advanced environmental and scientific studies. Jan and Eduardo were accompanied by Mari who, with great charm and humour, provided English translation where necessary for the members of the group.
We then sat down for a tasting of 4 different types of honey, after which members agreed that we will not be buying honey from a supermarket again!
Ten members of the group then had a very enjoyable and relaxed lunch at the Restaurante Amanecer.
Report by the Spanish Culture & Cuisine group leader, Angela Chantry, with many thanks to our photographers Linda Grealy, Tom Miller and Keith Smith.
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