A list of handy addresses where you can learn more about these sometimes-unusual creatures, and even discover their secret powers.

Breathe in that beehive air

In 2020, Séverine Snauwaert and Jérémy Trigaux launched a unique concept in Belgium based on apitherapy, which consists of using products from the hive to provide therapeutic treatments. Based in Pont-à-Celles, Séverine and Jérémy welcome patients to their beehive respiratory centre, located near the nature reserve of Viesville.

The experience lasts about thirty minutes: you are seated comfortably in an armchair and given a mask connected by a tube to the beehives, so that you can breathe in the air coming directly from them.

The warm (35 degrees) and humid air emitted by the bee larvae is renowned for its anti-inflammatory powers. This treatment can help relieve migraines and allergies. It can also be beneficial for respiratory diseases, including asthma.

Raising reptiles

Boris Levecq has always been passionate about reptiles. At the age of 11, he was given a chameleon. At the age of 13, he started to take an interest in iguanas. He soon learned to breed reptiles on his own and specialised in the knowledge of certain species.

Alongside his agronomy studies at l’Helha in Montignies-sur-Sambre, he set up a shop in Pont-à-Celles: Bo Reptiles, with the support of the Charleroi Student Lab. Boris is expanding his business all the time. He sells rare species and travels all over Europe to deliver his precious animal packages.

In the future, he hopes to organise training courses and workshops to pass on his breeding knowledge.

Drinking with the donkeys

Ariane and Virginie together opened État d’Ânes in Treignes (Viroinval). The concept is simple: enjoy a drink in the company of donkeys. Once you’re sitting comfortably in the gardens of the castle-farm of Treignes, these endearing animals are on hand to keep you company.

The two coordinators also offer grooming sessions and walks to get to know the animals even better.

Pastries and pussy cats

A few short weeks ago, Carole Van Brakel opened Carolo Cat, the region’s very first cat bar. Located in Rue de Marcinelle in Charleroi, she sells a range of pastries and drinks to be enjoyed in the company of a dozen felines.

The cats, residents of the Animal Protection Society, are chipped and vaccinated, and are looking for a new family to adopt them.

The presence of cats promotes well-being and tranquillity. It also gets people talking: you’ll find free flowing conversations between pet lovers in this very special place.