The morning dawned with a magnificent view of the beach and the settlement of Arginotas, and in this idyllic setting, we met Michalis Platsis, a man who changed the course of his life to follow his passion for becoming a beekeeper.
In a lovely space, among jars of quality honey of his own production, he welcomed us with a warm smile.
“I studied medicine,” Michalis confessed, “but my heart was always here, in Kalymnos.”
His decision to return to his island was not easy but inevitable. At first, he tried various jobs—in the hotel sector—but his childhood love for bees never left him.
“Since I was little, I have been fascinated by the structure of bee society and how organised they are,” he told us, with a twinkle in his eye.
This appeal led him to Athens, where he attended beekeeping seminars at the Agricultural University, equipping himself with the necessary knowledge for his new profession.
The art of beekeeping
As we talked, Michalis passionately explained the honey production process to us.
“It takes time and dedication to produce quality honey,” the beekeeper emphasised.
He proudly told us that the honey he produces is 94% thyme, a characteristic that gives it a special taste and aroma.
The unique experience in hives
Michalis’ invitation to visit his hives the next day was impossible to refuse.
So, the next afternoon, together with Kostis, our photographer, we met again in Arginotas. We got into Michalis’ van and started our ascent towards the hives. Approaching our destination, the atmosphere changed.
The air was filled with the scent of thyme, and the buzzing of the bees grew louder and louder.
We put on the special suits that protected us and approached the hives with awe and excitement.
Michalis, with steady movements, opened a hive. “Here is the concentrated honey,” he showed us.
Our eyes were filled with images of bee life. We singled out the queen, observed the workers in action, and learned about their roles and the structure of their society.
Return with full senses
As our visit ended, we stood for a while longer, enjoying the unique view towards Arginotta Bay. The aroma of thyme, the sound of bees, and the sweet taste of fresh honey on our lips made up an experience that will be etched in our memory forever.
We left Arginotas full of images, knowledge and experiences. Michalis Platsis, the doctor who became a beekeeper, showed us that you can create something truly special when you follow your passion.
And his honey? A sweet treasure that hides within it all the beauty and purity of Kalymnos.
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