Austin, TX, September 21, 2025
News Summary
Four Seasons Hotel Austin has launched a new apiary featuring three colonies of European Honeybees, totaling approximately 150,000 bees. This initiative supports sustainability and aims to educate guests and the local community on the crucial role honeybees play in food production. The hotel is hosting the ‘Viva Abejas’ campaign, offering bee-centric dishes at Restaurant Ciclo, educational experiences for local students, and private hive tours for guests. Additionally, honey-infused products will be available for purchase, aligning with the hotel’s broader commitment to environmental sustainability.
AUSTIN, Texas – Four Seasons Hotel Austin has launched a new onsite bee apiary, introducing three colonies of European Honeybees, totaling approximately 150,000 bees. This initiative is part of the hotel’s commitment to sustainability and aims to support the local bee population, which plays a crucial role in global food production.
The custom apiary allows the hotel to engage with both guests and the local community about the significant impact honeybees have on the food cycle. Research indicates that one out of every three bites of food relies on the efforts of these essential pollinators. In light of this, the hotel has partnered with Free Range Beehives and local beekeeper Two Hives Honey for the maintenance of the hives and to provide educational experiences related to bees.
From March 25 through Earth Day on April 22, 2025, the Four Seasons Hotel Austin will host the “Viva Abejas” campaign. This event will feature bee-centric dishes at the hotel’s Restaurant Ciclo, including specialties like duck tacos drizzled in agave honey and a honey vanilla cheesecake infused with local bee pollen and honey. The campaign focuses on educating the public about the vital role bees play in food production and aims to promote sustainable practices.
On March 26, 2025, a communal Chef’s Dinner will take place, led by Chef Richard Sandoval. This event includes a hive tour and a multi-course honey-infused meal, designed to deepen understanding of the relationship between food, bees, and sustainability. A portion of the proceeds from the “Viva Abejas” campaign will also benefit The World Bee Project, an organization dedicated to promoting education surrounding sustainability and bee conservation.
Furthermore, the hotel is committed to enhancing educational opportunities for local students. Local elementary school students will be welcomed to the hotel for hands-on experiences related to sustainability and bees. Activities will include a kitchen tour, a book reading, and a cooking class that will engage young learners with the importance of bees and the environment.
Guests at the Four Seasons Hotel Austin can enjoy exclusive access to private hive tours, offering a unique opportunity to learn about bee behavior and biology. Participants will have the chance to taste honey straight from the hive, enhancing their understanding of this vital food source further.
The hotel will also expand its offerings of honey-infused products to guests through room service. Items such as honey cream cheese tea sandwiches, honey margaritas, and a honey aromatherapy massage will feature prominently. The spa service will include the use of local honey butter, providing a relaxing experience while promoting local products.
For guests looking to take a piece of the experience home, Four Seasons Hotel Austin will offer local honey and bee products for purchase, including candles, books, and body scrubs. These initiatives align with the hotel’s broader commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) programs, encapsulated in its “Four Seasons For Good” initiative.
Key Highlights of the Bee Initiatives
- Introduction of three colonies of European Honeybees totaling 150,000 bees
- Partnership with Free Range Beehives and Two Hives Honey for hive maintenance
- “Viva Abejas” campaign running from March 25 to April 22, 2025, featuring bee-centric dishes
- Chef’s Dinner on March 26, 2025, with a hive tour and honey-infused multi-course meal
- Educational opportunities for local elementary students on sustainability and bees
- Private hive tours for guests to learn about bee behavior and biology
- Honey-infused items available through room service, including drinks and snacks
- Local honey and bee products available for purchase in the hotel
- Support for education on sustainability through The World Bee Project
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of bees were introduced at Four Seasons Hotel Austin?
Four Seasons Hotel Austin introduced three colonies of European Honeybees.
How many bees are in the hive at Four Seasons Hotel Austin?
The hotel has a total of 150,000 bees.
What is the purpose of the “Viva Abejas” campaign?
The campaign aims to showcase bee-centric dishes and raise awareness about the vital role of bees in food production.
What events are happening during the “Viva Abejas” campaign?
The hotel will host various events, including a Chef’s Dinner featuring a hive tour and honey-infused meals.
Will local students be involved in the bee initiatives?
Yes, local elementary students will have hands-on experiences with sustainability and bees at the hotel.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Bees | Total of 150,000 European Honeybees |
| Duration of Campaign | March 25 to April 22, 2025 |
| Chef’s Dinner Date | March 26, 2025 |
| Educational Opportunities | Engagement with local elementary students |
| Honey Products Available | Local honey, candles, books, and body scrubs |
