Bari: Tasting and Sunset in the Rooftop Apiary

Imagine sipping handcrafted natural wines, sampling cheeses made from animals raised without slaughter, and learning about bees—all with a backdrop of a breathtaking sunset over Bari’s skyline. That’s exactly what this tour promises. It’s not just a tasting session; it’s an experience that connects you with biodiversity, local food traditions, and urban sustainability. For travelers curious about apiculture, oenology, or just looking for something a little different in the city, this is worth considering.

What really stands out for us is the combination of education and leisure — you’re not just tasting wine and cheese, but also discovering their origins and how bees play a role in the entire process. Plus, the rooftop setting offers a rare chance to enjoy Bari’s cityscape during sunset, making it a memorable visual and sensory experience. On the flip side, it’s not ideal for those with mobility issues or anyone looking for a casual, no-commitment tasting. It’s a structured tour that involves a bit of learning and walking around the botanical garden, so it’s best suited for those who want a blend of fun, insight, and scenic beauty.

In short, this experience is perfect for adventurous foodies, eco-conscious travelers, and anyone eager to see Bari from a new perspective. If you’re interested in sustainability, beekeeping, or simply want to enjoy a unique way to wind down your day with friends or a partner, keep reading. We’re about to walk you through everything you need to know about this intriguing rooftop adventure.

Key Points

• Unique setting: Located on the rooftop garden and apiary of Imago+, offering panoramic views of Bari’s cityscape.
• Educational and enjoyable: Led by experienced beekeepers and certified wine and cheese sommeliers, combining tasting with learning.
• Focus on sustainability: Features cheeses from farms that do not practice slaughtering and raises bees in a sustainable urban environment.
• Biodiversity and conviviality: Emphasizes the harmony between humans, plants, and pollinators in an intimate, relaxed setting.
• Beverage pairing: Includes four handcrafted natural wines, both Italian and international, paired with local cheeses and hive products.
• Timing and practicality: Lasts about two hours, with a sunset backdrop that enhances the sensory experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What to Expect

The Location and Atmosphere

The tour takes place at Imago+, a cultural center and boutique hotel situated in Bari’s vibrant Libertà district. The rooftop garden and apiary are the highlight, offering an urban oasis of native medicinal and aromatic plants from Apulia, plus a sustainable hive setup. You’ll have the chance to explore this green space, which is a rare find in a bustling city center.

Once you arrive, a staff member will welcome you at the reception before guiding you to the rooftop. The garden’s layout invites a leisurely stroll among the plants, which are carefully chosen for their aromatic, medicinal, and culinary qualities. The enclosed apiary offers a safe environment to observe bees up close—something that both enthusiasts and novices tend to find fascinating.

The Beekeeping and Biodiversity Focus

The main draw here is the sustainable urban apiary, which makes this experience stand out. Imago+ is one of the first Italian urban hotels with beehives, inspired by similar initiatives in New York, Vancouver, and Taipei. The beekeepers will explain the role of bees in pollination and how they contribute to the vineyard’s health and diversity.

“An experience of harmony with humans, plants, and small pollinating animals,” as one reviewer summarized, capturing the core of this tour. The apiary is designed to foster a sense of coexistence, and most participants find it surprisingly calming and insightful.

The Tasting Portion

After the garden stroll, the focus shifts to the tasting path—an engaging journey through the world of hive products, wine, and dairy. You’ll sample four handcrafted natural wines, selected for their specific characteristics and nutritional principles. The wines are thoughtfully paired with a selection of cheeses—ranging from aged and semi-aged to fresh soft varieties—all from local farms practicing ethical animal husbandry.

What makes these cheeses special? The cheeses are from farms that do not practice slaughtering animals and do not induce lactation artificially. Instead, they are raised in free-range conditions, which are both a conscious choice and a demonstration of high-quality production. The pairing is meant to highlight complementary flavors and nutritional benefits, making each sip and bite more meaningful.

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Hive Products and Dairy Pairings

You’ll learn what are the products of the hive—honey, beeswax, and pollen—and how they can be integrated into the wine and cheese experience. For example, you might find out how honey can be used to bottle-condition wine, a process that accentuates the sweetness and complexity of the beverage.

Participants often comment on how the cheeses re-ferment naturally, a process that’s both intriguing and tasty. The beekeepers and sommeliers will describe how bees contribute to the vineyard’s vitality and discuss which dairy products are ideal complements to hive products. It’s a fascinating look at the natural synergy in food production.

Sunset and Views

The timing of the tour includes the approach of sunset, which bathes Bari’s skyline in warm, golden hues. This adds a magical element to the experience, and many reviews mention how the views enhance the tasting, creating a relaxed, convivial atmosphere.

Practical Details and Considerations

Duration and Group Size

The experience lasts approximately two hours, making it an ideal way to unwind after a day of sightseeing. The group size isn’t specified, but tours like this typically favor small groups, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

Accessibility and Restrictions

It’s important to note that the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with non-folding strollers, as it involves navigating the rooftop garden. Also, participants should avoid wearing high heels or bringing plastic bags—the environment is eco-friendly and designed to be natural and relaxed.

Booking and Cancellation

You can reserve your spot with the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Payment can be deferred—reserve now and pay later—which is handy if your plans are still fluid.

Allergies and Safety

If you’re allergic to bee stings, it’s helpful to inform the organizers, though the apiary is enclosed and protected, making it a safe space. The experience emphasizes coexistence and safety, providing behavioral guidelines to ensure everyone feels comfortable.

Value for Money and Who Will Love It

Considering the price includes four natural wines, local cheeses, hive products, and a knowledgeable guided tour, it offers solid value—especially when you factor in the unique setting and educational component. It’s not just about tasting but understanding the natural processes and sustainability efforts behind the products you’re enjoying.

This experience is particularly suited for adventurous travelers, eco-conscious consumers, and those interested in food and beverage craftsmanship. It’s a great choice if you want a relaxed, scenic activity that combines learning with enjoyment, all within a vibrant city environment.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a unique, educational, and scenic activity in Bari, this rooftop apiary experience hits the mark. You’ll get to explore the intersection of local food culture, sustainability, and urban biodiversity, all set against a sunset vista that makes the whole experience even more special.

The combination of beekeeping insights, wine and cheese tastings, and a lush rooftop garden creates a well-rounded activity that appeals to curious minds and sensory lovers alike. While it’s not a casual drop-in event—given the focus on learning and the specific setup—it offers a meaningful glimpse into how urban environments can support sustainable food production.

For those who want to enjoy Bari from a different perspective, connect with nature, and taste thoughtfully crafted products, this tour offers plenty of value. Just be prepared for a bit of walking and a shared experience that’s best enjoyed with an open mind and a sense of curiosity.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children?
This tour is generally geared toward adults and those interested in learning about beekeeping, wine, and cheese. It’s not specifically designed for children, and some activities, like the apiary visit, may not be appropriate for very young kids.

Can I participate if I have allergies to bee stings?
Yes, but it’s helpful to inform the organizers beforehand. The apiary is enclosed and protected, minimizing risks, and they’ll provide behavioral guidelines to ensure safety and comfort.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, unfortunately, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with non-folding strollers because of the rooftop location and garden setup.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for walking and mild outdoor conditions are best. Avoid high heels and accessories that might hinder movement or safety. If you’re sensitive to bee environments, consider wearing long sleeves.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts around two hours, which makes it a perfect short activity to fit into your day without feeling rushed.

Are the wines and cheeses locally produced?
Yes, the cheeses are from farms that don’t practice slaughtering and raise animals in free-range conditions. The wines are selected based on specific characteristics, including both Italian and international options.

What is the best time to join this tour?
The experience is designed around sunset, so late afternoon or early evening is ideal to enjoy both the tasting and the view.

You can check availability for your dates here: