Hof Bredelaar is a welcoming self-picking garden situated in Park Lingezegen, between Arnhem and Nijmegen in the Netherlands. Since 2022, this small-scale market garden has cultivated a wide array of fresh, untreated, and organically grown produce, prioritizing healthy soil, biodiversity, and natural balance.
Individuals can become harvest members, granting them access to pick their own produce at their convenience, as the garden operates seven days a week from sunrise to sunset. The self-picking season spans 30 weeks, typically from May 1st to December 1st.
The farm offers a diverse selection of seasonal produce. In the spring, members can pick items such as spinach, radishes, rhubarb, kohlrabi, rapini, mint, and various beans like peas and broad beans. The high season brings an abundance of fresh vegetables and fruits. As autumn progresses, the harvest shifts to include pumpkins, kale, collard greens, sprouts, leeks, and Jerusalem artichokes. Additionally, various types of lettuce, beets, carrots, and herbs like sage, thyme, and rosemary are consistently available for as long as possible.
Hof Bredelaar functions as more than just a food source; it is an “edible oasis” and a community gathering spot where people can connect with nature, relax, and enjoy the environment. Guidance is provided for new pickers through tours, weekly harvest letters with clear instructions, and helpful signage within the garden. A 30-week harvest share costs €335 per adult (aged 14 and over) and €75 per child under 14, with flexible payment options available, and accessibility for various community pass holders. The garden also hosts volunteers and welcomes general visitors for walks, picnics, or participation in outdoor activities like pilates or yoga.
What visitors say
Visitors to this self-picking farm are largely enthusiastic, describing it as a “fantastic initiative” set within beautiful, peaceful natural surroundings. Many appreciate the tranquility and the organic cultivation of produce, noting that the garden itself is well-maintained and developing nicely. Its popularity is evident from the significant number of registrations, indicating that securing a spot might require some patience due to high demand. While the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, one individual did find the experience “a bit on the boring side.”