De Huppe is an experience farm located on the outskirts of Zwolle, serving as a vibrant place where people, nature, and craftsmanship converge. It functions as a learning and working farm, providing a supportive environment for individuals to grow and develop skills through various activities.
The farm features an organic pick-your-own and vegetable garden (“pluk- en moestuin”) where visitors can immerse themselves in sustainable cultivation. From early spring, visitors can enjoy picking fresh tulips, and throughout the summer, they are invited to self-pick a variety of flowers to create unique bouquets. Additionally, edible flowers and herbs are available for picking, perfect for enhancing salads, desserts, or beverages, or for making homemade flower or herb butter.
Beyond the self-picking garden, De Huppe cultivates a rich harvest of organic fruits and vegetables, including juicy tomatoes and cucumbers from its greenhouse, as well as raspberries, apples, pears, hops, and garlic. These are sold in the on-site farm shop or processed into regional products like raspberry cakes, Zwolle Aioli, and artisanal beer.
Other facilities at De Huppe include a wood workshop crafting unique furniture and accessories, a cheese factory producing organic farmhouse cheese, and a farm shop offering a wide range of own and regional products. The ‘Beleefweide’ (experience meadow) introduces visitors to farm animals and educational insights into food production, complete with a water play area and a barefoot path. De Huppe also offers meeting space in a unique converted silo and is an ideal resting point for cyclists and hikers exploring the surrounding natural landscape near the IJssel, as part of the Zwolle City Lands initiative.
The farm is open Monday to Saturday from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM and has a 24/7 fresh produce vending machine. It is situated at Kleine Veerweg 9, 8017 BP Zwolle.
What visitors say
This Dutch farm is widely celebrated for its inviting atmosphere and a diverse, well-stocked farm shop. Visitors consistently praise the delicious artisanal cheeses, many of which are produced on-site, with a specific recommendation often given for the young matured variety. The extensive product range also includes various fresh dairy items such as yogurt, buttermilk, quark, and ice cream, along with local eggs, regional produce, organic vegetables grown on the farm, sausages, and wine. For added convenience, some products are available through a 24/7 cheese and egg vending machine.
The farm is highly regarded for its friendly, helpful, and kind staff, fostering a welcoming environment. Its role as a care farm (zorgboerderij) is frequently highlighted and appreciated, as it provides a supportive workplace for individuals with special needs. Beyond the shop, the location offers a delightful experience, often described as clean and child-friendly, featuring animals housed in spacious enclosures. A popular attraction is the pick-your-own flower garden, allowing guests to gather beautiful bouquets.
While the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many guests eager to return, a few comments note that prices can be on the higher side. There have also been isolated reports of less-than-friendly service from specific staff members and a past billing error. Additionally, one visitor mentioned that some areas outside the shop appeared a bit disorganized, and another wished for more seating during a winter market, especially for those with mobility issues. Despite these minor points, the farm is largely recommended for its quality products, engaging activities, and its warm, inclusive atmosphere.