DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-025-2-0034

APITHERAPY AS AN INNOVATIVE ELEMENT IN RECREATIONAL TOURISM DEVELOPMENT

Alexandra Maruniaková¹, Radoslav Kvasničák¹, Ivan Iľko¹, Viera Peterková¹

¹ Department of Biology, Faculty of Education, Trnava University in Trnava, Priemyselná 4, 918 43, Trnava, Slovakia

Modern tourism trends emphasize integrating innovative and nature-based experiences to enhance regional tourism and attract visitors interested in wellness and sustainable recreation. This study examines the attitudes of 122 respondents who participated in apitherapy in 19 apiary houses across 18 towns and villages in Slovakia. Data collection focused on subjective experiences and perceived benefits in the context of recreation and relaxation. Statistical analysis showed no significant gender differences in apitherapy perception. Respondents reported a highly significant improvement in physical and mental well-being, as well as increased relaxation and comfort before, during, and after therapy. Distance to the apiary houses had no impact on participation, suggesting that apitherapy attracts visitors regardless of location. Health benefits were a stronger motivation than curiosity, though this factor was on the edge of statistical significance. Over 90% of participants expressed willingness to return or recommend apitherapy to others. The findings highlight apitherapy’s potential to enrich recreational tourism and promote sustainable land use by offering unique health-focused experiences. This study underscores the need to increase awareness of apitherapy as an alternative recreational activity, complementing traditional forms of nature-based tourism.

Keywords: apitherapy, recreational tourism, wellness tourism, sustainable land use, alternative therapeutic experiences

pages: 34-39, Published: 2025, online: 2025