Hive in the Heart of Cherry Creek
Urban beekeeping takes flight atop Hotel Clio
Photos Courtesy of Chad Chisholm Creative
High above the vibrant streets of Cherry Creek, a sweet partnership is thriving atop Hotel Clio. Since 2019, Sarah and Matt McLean have transformed a personal hobby into a professional mission, now tending over 75 hives through their business, Homestead in the Hood. Matt, a master candidate in the Colorado State Beekeepers Association, and Sara, a Conifer native, act as “hive hosts” fastidiously tending their bees bare-handed to foster a deep connection with the colonies.
The hotel’s rooftop is home to active hives of Carniolan bees; a hardy Slavic breed perfectly suited to Colorado’s winters. These industrious foragers produce up to 200 pounds of honey each summer; the McLeans ensure the bees keep a 100-pound reserve for winter, while the surplus flavors the hotel’s culinary offering and beeswax products.
Guided by a philosophy of environmental stewardship, the McLeans advocate for chemical-free land and package their golden harvest in recyclable glass to combat plastic waste. As “bee ambassadors,” they invite us to care for our own piece of the plant, proving that even in the heart of the city, nature can flourish.
