Philips Fruittuin is a spacious 12-hectare fruit orchard located in a green area of Eindhoven, easily accessible from the city center. Established in 1928 by Anton Philips, it has grown into a notable destination offering a blend of nature, relaxation, and local produce.
The farm provides visitors with the unique opportunity to self-pick apples and pears during special “Apple Picking Days,” typically organized in September when the fruits are ripe. Beyond self-picking, guests can also pick an apple directly from the tree in September and early October.
In addition to the orchard, Philips Fruittuin features several amenities:
- De Proeftuin Pancake Restaurant: This restaurant uses apples and pears from its own orchard, along with other regional ingredients, to create a menu of homemade pancakes, sandwiches, and seasonal dishes, all enjoyed with a view of the surrounding orchard.
- Landwinkel Farm Shop: Here, visitors can purchase fresh apples, pears, and juices directly from the orchard. The shop also stocks a wide selection of artisanal and organic regional products, including forgotten vegetables, spelt bread, chutneys, cheeses, farm ice cream, and apple chips.
- PIT Meeting Hub: This facility offers various rooms for presentations, meetings, workshops, and team sessions, all set within the inspiring environment of the orchard.
Other activities available include guided tours of the orchard (from April to October), pre-arranged picnics, treasure hunts, and pruning workshops. The farm is also a suitable venue for children’s parties from April to September. Dogs on a leash are welcome on the terrace and in the orchard.
What visitors say
This picturesque farm offers a delightful escape into nature, earning high praise for its serene ambiance amidst sprawling apple and pear orchards. Visitors consistently laud the friendly, attentive, and enthusiastic staff across both the restaurant and farm shop, creating a welcoming experience for many.
The location is a popular choice for families, featuring various play areas for children and engaging activities like apple and pear picking days, which are often described as well-organized and a highlight for all ages. Guests appreciate the opportunity to wander through the beautiful orchards and discover features like a maize maze, making it an educational and fun outing.
Dining at the on-site restaurant is a significant draw, with many praising the delicious and freshly prepared meals, especially the diverse range of pancakes—including unique options like beet and goat cheese—alongside tasty lunches, excellent apple pie, and refreshing warm apple juice. Portions are generally satisfying, and prices are considered fair for the quality of the food and the pleasant, often peaceful, outdoor seating. The farm shop further enhances the experience, featuring a wide selection of fresh, organic produce directly from the farm, such as apples, pears, and plums, as well as local specialties like traditional farm milk and artisanal cheeses. While some note that the organic products are a bit pricier, their quality is consistently highlighted as worthwhile.
However, the experience is not without its occasional drawbacks. A few guests reported instances of unhelpful or unfriendly interactions with staff, particularly concerning strict reservation policies or perceived rules infractions, which led to feelings of being unwelcomed. There have been isolated complaints about food quality, such as dry or undercooked pancakes, or stewed pears not meeting expectations. Long waiting times for meals were also mentioned during busy periods. One customer felt misled by confusing pricing for plums, while another noted that purchased apples spoiled quickly, an issue the owner attributed to improper storage in warm weather. Additionally, some have expressed disappointment over the removal of indoor play areas, though outdoor facilities remain popular for children.
Despite these infrequent criticisms, the overwhelming sentiment positions the farm as a cherished destination for relaxation, family fun, and enjoying high-quality local products in a beautiful, natural environment, making it a highly recommended spot for many.