“De Tovertuin” is a self-picking garden located in Epe, Netherlands, at Papenstraat 10. This farm operates on a community-focused model, aiming to provide fresh, naturally, and ecologically grown produce while fostering a connection between people and their food source. Although not officially certified as organic due to cost, all cultivation adheres to biological principles.
The garden is accessible to members who purchase a harvest share for the season, which typically spans around 33 weeks starting in early May. A single share provides approximately five meals worth of vegetables per week for one adult. Membership includes guidance on harvesting and access to a weekly “harvest offer” detailing available crops. Trial memberships are also available. Members can pick their own produce during specific hours on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 8:00 to 20:00, with additional access on Saturdays.
Visitors can self-pick a diverse array of fresh vegetables, including: Potatoes, Strawberries, Endive, Eggplant, Basil, Beets (red, yellow, Chioggia), Kale, Wild Garlic, Scallions, Broccoli, Broccolini, Chinese Cabbage, Zucchini, Capuchin Peas, Celeriac, Cucumbers (field and mini varieties), Rutabaga, Kohlrabi (purple and white/light green), Bok Choy, Black Kale (also known as Cavolo nero or Tuscan kale), Parsnips, Snow Peas, Leeks, Turnip Greens, Rhubarb, Radicchio, Radishes (red, white, round, and elongated types), Red Cabbage, various types of Lettuce (including head and loose-leaf varieties), Spinach, Pointed Cabbage, Swiss Chard (red, green, and yellow), Green Beans (also called French or princess beans), Brussels Sprouts, Sweet Corn, Broad Beans (fava beans), Lamb’s Lettuce, Fennel (bulb fennel), Winter Purslane, Yacon, and Sweet Potatoes (batata).
The farm promotes the benefits of local, seasonal eating, waste reduction, and direct support for farmers, while acknowledging that natural factors like weather can influence harvest outcomes due to their pesticide-free cultivation methods.
What visitors say
This self-picking farm, affectionately known to some as “De Tovertuin,” consistently receives glowing reviews from its visitors. Guests are universally impressed by the beautifully designed and well-maintained gardens, which offer a diverse selection of organic and wonderfully fresh produce, including vegetables, flowers, and plants, with cuttings also available. The owners, identified as Bram and Lieuwe, are frequently praised for their passion, enthusiasm, and extensive knowledge, as well as their admirable perseverance, particularly during challenging growing seasons.
Beyond the high-quality, self-harvested goods, the overall atmosphere is described as incredibly inviting, fostered by kind and dedicated individuals, making it a truly delightful experience. One returning visitor even highlights its broader appeal as a “perfect place” for a relaxing B&B stay, offering healthy self-cooked meals and opportunities for activities such as cycling, swimming, and fitness, suggesting a comprehensive wellness and vacation destination. Many visitors describe it as a “wonderful” or “perfect” spot, with some expressing a desire for it to remain a cherished “secret” gem.