“We never imagined we’d work with bees. But life in the village pushes you to try everything that might bring in income—and then you realize that some things aren’t just about profit. For me, bees aren’t work—they’re love.”
That’s how Flora Sali begins her story—a woman who has spent her entire life in the mountainous village of Gostivisht, far from the city but close to nature, tradition, and her roots.
“We planted a bit of everything, raised a few animals, collected medicinal herbs… just enough to get by. Then a friend asked, ‘Why don’t you try beekeeping?’ And that’s how it all began.”
At first, her husband bought three hives—more out of curiosity than certainty. “It was a tough start. We were worried we might hurt the bees. We had never had any contact with them before. But I fell in love. They’re tiny creatures, but the organization inside a hive is astounding—no human could ever replicate that kind of order.”
No year was wasted. From three hives, they grew to fifteen. The honey, which at first was only enjoyed by their family, slowly gained quiet demand from friends, neighbors, and visitors.
“A jar for a friend, a small gift for a guest… Our honey was in demand before it even hit the market.”
Flora describes her relationship with bees in a special way: “When you care for them, you don’t feel tired. I’ve seen 80-year-olds still working with bees. It’s something that keeps you alive.”
For over 15 years, Flora has been a member of Slow Food Përmet, completed training to become a local guide, and works passionately to promote the Dangëllia region. “I had to tell not just the story of the honey, but also the land where it comes from—a pure climate, nature beyond words.”
She’s also active in organizations like Pro Përmeti, Visit Gjirokastra, and Agritourism Albabia. Yet she acknowledges that nowadays, promotion happens online. “I’m someone who’s used to working the land, but I learned to use my phone too. I opened social media accounts, post my own photos and videos—because that’s my storefront. And people respond.”
Today, Ferma Sali has over 150 hives and a loyal network of clients who eagerly await the honey even before it’s harvested. “I know we could expand even more, but it’s difficult—just my husband and I can’t manage it all. Young people are leaving, and that’s the hardest part.”
But despite the challenges, Flora remains hopeful: “I love what I do. I’m connected to the land, to the bees, to rural life. And I’ll keep doing this for as long as I have the strength.”
By Eni Muça
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