The Greftenhoeve, a blueberry farm located in Vriezenveen, Twente, specializes in cultivating blueberries for fresh consumption and offers a variety of self-picking experiences.
Visitors can enjoy self-picking for a variety of fruits, including blueberries, redcurrants, blackcurrants, gooseberries, and blackberries. Blueberries are available for both self-picking and pre-picked purchase, while redcurrants, blackcurrants, gooseberries, and blackberries are exclusively offered for self-picking. The self-picking price for all fruits is €6.50 per kilogram, while pre-picked blueberries are sold for €8.00 per kilogram. The availability of ripe fruit is regularly updated, with blueberries typically ready from late June or early July, and other soft fruits starting around mid-June. Frozen blueberries are also sold outside the main picking season.
In addition to fruit picking, the farm features a country shop that sells homemade blueberry products such as juice, jam, sauce, and syrup, as well as unique regional products from Twente. Guests can relax with a cup of coffee and traditional blueberry pie on the farmyard, beneath old oak trees, or in the hay barn. High Tea services are available for groups by appointment. The farm also provides various recipes for both fresh and frozen blueberries. Its location at Greftenweg 16, 7671 PC Vriezenveen, is well-suited for combining a visit with a cycling trip through the nearby Engbertsdijkvenen nature reserve.
During the high season, from June 15th to September 15th, the farm and its self-picking fields are open from Wednesday to Saturday, 9:00 to 17:00, remaining closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, Sundays, and public holidays. Outside this season, from September 16th to June 14th, the farm shop is open on Wednesdays from 10:00 to 17:00 and also by appointment, with group visits accommodated by prior arrangement.
What visitors say
This delightful self-picking berry farm is a highly cherished destination, particularly celebrated for its engaging blueberry picking experience, which also extends to other varieties like blackcurrants, gooseberries, and redcurrants when in season. Patrons consistently commend the vibrant and welcoming atmosphere, describing it as a cozy and relaxing escape, perfect for a family outing with activities that entertain children.
Beyond the opportunity to gather your own fruit, the farm boasts a charming cafe and a well-stocked shop. The cafe receives widespread acclaim for its delicious homemade blueberry pie (“vlaai”), coffee, tea, and highly recommended blueberry ice cream. The accompanying shop offers a variety of fresh berry products, including pre-picked berries, artisanal jams (not overly sweet), and healthy berry juices. Numerous reviewers emphasize the superior taste of these fresh berries compared to those found in supermarkets.
The friendly staff and the overall sense of tranquility contribute significantly to the overwhelmingly positive experience, leading many guests to become repeat visitors. While generally offering good value, especially for the self-picking activity, prospective visitors are advised to note that the farm, particularly for picking, may be closed on certain weekdays, such as Mondays and Tuesdays, and it is recommended to verify opening hours in advance.