Groentenhof Poelen & Het Balkon van Groesbeek is a farm run by Chris and Laura Poelen, situated at Derdebaan 12, 6561 KH Groesbeek, in an area referred to as the “Tuscany of the Netherlands.”
The farm offers visitors the opportunity to self-pick pumpkins. Specific pumpkin-picking days are scheduled for all Sundays in September, and additionally, “Halloween Pumpkin Days” are held on the last three Sundays in October. On these designated days, picking is available from 10:00 to 17:00, and admission is free.
Beyond self-picking, the location includes a pumpkin shop, open daily from August through January, from 8:30 to 18:30. The farm also provides accommodation with a Bed & Breakfast and “Berghutjes” (cabins), which are open year-round. A terrace is available on Sundays from May to October, operating from 10:00 to 14:00.
What visitors say
This self-picking farm is widely celebrated for its remarkably vast and diverse collection of pumpkins and gourds, offering an incredible array of sizes, shapes, and colors suitable for both decoration and culinary use, often at reasonable prices. Visitors frequently describe the location as beautiful and atmospheric, providing a picturesque setting for autumn outings, with a lovely view and pleasant fields to explore. The farm is particularly popular for Halloween, offering family-friendly activities such as pumpkin carving workshops and the enjoyment of warm drinks like hot chocolate by an open fire. Many appreciate the presence of a terrace, coffee, and delicious pumpkin soup, with some noting the benefit of fresh, locally grown, and even organic produce, making it a cherished annual tradition for many.
However, a considerable number of reviews point to significant issues, primarily concerning staff behavior. Multiple customers report encountering an exceptionally unfriendly, arrogant, or rude male staff member, sometimes identified as “Chris,” who creates an unwelcoming atmosphere. Specific complaints include grumbling responses to simple questions, explicit prohibitions against children touching pumpkins, and strict bans on photography. Disturbingly, some reviews even allege racist behavior and threatening conduct towards families attempting to take pictures. Long-standing patrons have observed a decline in the overall ambiance and value over the years, with disappointment in the contents of “Good to Go” bags or the perceived low quality and poor value of onsite catering. Furthermore, several customers have experienced pumpkins rotting unusually quickly after purchase, and one review highlighted an instance of alleged overcharging, advising others to carefully check their bills. The consensus from these negative experiences suggests that while the farm boasts impressive produce, the customer service can significantly detract from the visit.