De Tuin naast de Branding is a self-picking garden located on Schiermonnikoog. Visitors are invited to harvest their own fruit, flowers, and vegetables. Additionally, the garden cultivates oyster mushrooms, grown using coffee grounds from the island.
The garden operates daily from sunrise to sunset, welcoming visitors to explore and harvest even when staff are not present. During favorable weather conditions, a market stall from the garden is set up every Saturday morning at the Willemshof, running until the end of October.
To guide visitors, a board in the garden indicates what produce is currently available. Crops ready for self-picking are marked with a blue flag, and harvesting is permitted on the south side (wadkant) of the flag. Tools such as scissors and knives, along with elastic bands for bouquets and containers, are provided in the shed. After harvesting, visitors record their selections on a notepad in the shed and determine their own payment, with guideline prices also available. Payments can be made in cash via a designated box or through card payment, even when the garden is unattended.
Visitors are asked to adhere to a few guidelines: remain on the designated paths, ensure all fences are closed, and avoid bringing dogs into the garden due to the presence of ducks (a shaded spot with water is available outside for pets). While greenhouse plants are delicate and harvested by staff, their produce is made available in the shed. Bicycles should be parked at the racks over the bridge, and islanders arriving by car can use the camping entrance for parking. It is also noted that road traffic can be busier between 10-10:30, 13-13:30, and 16-16:30, correlating with ferry arrivals and departures.
What visitors say
This self-picking farm on the island of Schiermonnikoog consistently receives high praise as an outstanding destination and a true gem. Visitors enthusiastically commend the delicious, fresh, and organic selection of vegetables, fruits, herbs, and beautiful flowers available for harvest. Many describe the self-picking experience as incredibly fun and enjoyable.
A recurring highlight among reviewers is the farm’s unique and commendable concept: it functions as a community garden for islanders, even supplying local restaurants, and operates on a trust-based payment system where customers contribute what they feel is fair. This model, which prioritizes quality over quantity and advocates for organic, pesticide-free cultivation, is frequently cited as an inspiring blueprint for other communities.
The garden itself is consistently lauded as an amazing, well-organized, and meticulously maintained space, boasting a diverse assortment of produce and flora. The staff and overall atmosphere are also highly regarded, with many noting the welcoming, friendly, helpful, relaxed, and social environment that makes guests feel right at home. Even in one instance where a visitor was not initially greeted, they still praised the garden and expressed a desire to return, underscoring that any minor issues are far outweighed by the overwhelmingly positive experience and the farm’s dedication to its principles. Overall, the farm is a highly recommended spot for its exceptional products, unique community-focused approach, and delightful ambiance.