Did you know Dechen Chöling has beehives? When Pierre-Yves Monfrais arrived at DCL in 2010, he noticed two beehives along the pond close to the forest, which although populated, seemed abandoned. Through discussion with various knowledgeable community members, training in beekeeping and set-up help from others, the beehives were activated again. Throughout the years up to 10 hives were populated and honey harvested each year. This year’s honey is a beautiful golden color, very fragrant, reminding us of gone summer flowers with subtle chestnut notes. It is a real treat and we are very happy to serve it as part of Dechen Chöling’s breakfast!
A big thank you to Pierre-Yves Monfrais, Claire Weulersse, Alain Guillou, Andreas Manthey, Philippe Ronce and the interested and caring volunteers that have been involved in DCL beekeeping over the years!
Our abundant apple orchard
Besides the honey, we also collected 350 kg of apples from the various apple trees on the main land of DCL as well as the apple orchard next to the compost area. We took them to an apple press close by and were overjoyed to receive over 200 litres of delicious apple juice as a result of the process. The apple juice will be on the breakfast table for programs, shared during community events and can also be purchased at the boutique as a souvenir to take a bit of DCL home with you.
Between 2007 and 2009, Thierry Richarme, who was a neighbor of Dechen Chöling at the time, created this orchard to safeguard and conserve heritage apple varieties of the Limousin area. Around twenty varieties of apple trees were planted and produce dessert apples and apples for storage which can be kept until April or May of the following year.
Andréas Manthey, a former member of staff and neighbor of Dechen Chöling, has taken over the maintenance of the orchard. Thank you!
If you are curious about the process of making apple juice, you can find a video on Instagram and Facebook.