Berkenbroek Blauwe Bessen in Darp is a pick-your-own blueberry farm on the slopes of the Havelterberg. The farm grows four varieties—Duke, Liberty, Valor and Aurora—which ripen from July to September. Visitors can pick their own berries during the season, paying by the kilo. The farm also organises self-picking days, where staff explain how to pick the ripest berries. On these days, homemade blueberry pie and drinks are available at the field.
The farm also cultivates strawberries, raspberries and other soft fruit, though these are not available for self-picking. Strawberries are grown in a polytunnel in Wittelte, where the season starts in mid-May and runs until September. Raspberries are harvested from June to November. The farm sells its fruit at a self-service stall in Wittelte from late May to late October, along with homemade juices and syrups. Payment is by cash or QR code. Used containers and bottles can be returned for reuse.
During the summer holidays, the farm hires schoolchildren and students aged 13 and over for paid picking work, but this is not open to the public. The farm does not use chemical pesticides, relying instead on natural predators and organic methods.
Berkenbroek also appears at local markets and fairs, including the Vleddermarkt and Ommelander markt in Groningen. The farm’s opening times vary with the season and weather, so check ahead before visiting. Parking is wheelchair-accessible.