Bels Bees, now the new home of The Herbery, is a unique agritourism destination in North Rockbridge, Virginia, located on the scenic Glorious Twelfth Farm. This property offers visitors an immersive experience in beekeeping, honey production, and pollinator conservation, making it a must-visit for families, gardeners, and nature enthusiasts.
What to Experience at Bels Bees
Beekeeping and Honey Education: Learn about honey production, bee behavior, and the critical role of bees as pollinators.
Butterfly House: A serene space to observe butterflies and enjoy the connection between bees, pollinators, and plant life.
Custom Embroidery: Visitors can also purchase or commission custom embroidery work, adding a unique artisanal element to the visit.
Special Events: Bels Bees hosts educational programs and seasonal events; in 2023, they hosted a Christmas event that delighted the community.
Pro Tip: Don’t leave without purchasing some of their locally produced honey—it’s a favorite among visitors.
The Herbery: All-Organic Gardens and Heirloom Plants
The Herbery, now housed at Bels Bees, features all-organic gardens that follow the natural contours of the land. The gardens boast a stunning variety of perennials, herbs, and heirloom plants, including:
Flowers: Salvia, scented geraniums, poppies, peonies, daisies, columbine, climbing roses, heirloom irises, and daylilies brought from the Netherlands in the 1920s by the owner’s grandmother.
Herbs & Edibles: Sage, chives, marjoram, parsley, rosemary, thyme, basil, garlic, lemongrass, and lemon verbena.
Fruit & Berries: Mixed throughout the gardens, complementing the flowering plants and herbs.
Visitors can stroll through the gardens, explore heirloom varieties, and enjoy the combination of beauty, history, and sustainability that makes this property exceptional.
📍 Location: Just a 5-minute drive from Old Brownsburg Store (OBS) – just down the road (south on Route 252)
🔗 Learn more: Visit the official Bels Bees & Glorious Twelfth Farm website for events, educational programs, and visitor information