Overesch Ecological Agriculture is a farm situated at Hondemotsweg 40, 8101 NJ Raalte, rooted in a history dating back to 1798. The farm is dedicated to ecological principles, emphasizing harmony with nature, animal welfare, and sustainable practices free from pesticides and artificial feeds. It operates as a mixed farm, raising Brandrode cattle and pigs, and cultivating a variety of arable crops and vegetables. The pigs enjoy a dedicated mud pool and can be observed from a “skybox” viewing area, highlighting the farm’s commitment to their well-being.
The farm offers a comprehensive farm shop where visitors can purchase a wide selection of organic products, predominantly from their own cultivation or livestock. This includes fresh vegetables and fruits, various types of bread (some made from their own grains), dairy, cheese, eggs, and cuts of pork and beef. Beyond the shop, Overesch provides weekly organic vegetable and fruit subscription packages, a delivery service covering Salland and Zwolle, and functions as an Ekoplaza pick-up point.
For visitors, the farm offers an engaging experience. There’s a visitor’s room with an exhibition detailing ecological versus conventional farming, providing views of the pigs. Guided tours of the farm and stables can be arranged, and the location serves as a starting point for several walking and cycling routes. Educational initiatives include a “Boerderijschool” (Farm School) where primary school children learn organic farming by cultivating their own plots of vegetables and potatoes. Meeting facilities are also available in their unique “Skybox.”
Regarding self-picking opportunities, the farm organizes specific Pumpkin picking days. Other crops grown on their fields, such as potatoes, green asparagus, various grains (like barley, rye, oats, wheat, and spelt), artichokes, and sweet corn, are primarily harvested by the farm for sale through their shop and to partners like Udea and De Consequente BioBakker.
What visitors say
This highly-rated organic and biodynamic farm provides a truly welcoming and enjoyable experience for its visitors. The farm features a beautiful shop praised for its wide and often surprising assortment of high-quality, healthy products, including fresh vegetables, fruits, delicious bread, cheese, honey, and even excellent BBQ meat sourced for large groups. Customers consistently highlight the friendly and helpful staff, finding the overall service superb.
A key draw is the farm’s transparent commitment to animal welfare, particularly evident with its pigs. Visitors are invited to observe the animals freely roaming in spacious enclosures, including mud wallows, a sight often described as reflecting an ideal world. While one visitor noted the unfortunate discovery of a deceased piglet, the general sentiment underscores that the pigs lead a good life here, with the farm actively striving for low mortality and maintaining transparency in its operations. The farm welcomes public viewing, offers excursions, and hosts open days to educate visitors on their sustainable, circular farming practices.
Nestled in a picturesque rural setting, the farm is more than just a place to buy produce; it serves as an inviting destination. Many enjoy stopping for coffee and biological treats on the terrace, and it’s a popular spot for families, featuring play areas for children. Its charming location also makes it an ideal break for cyclists and hikers exploring the surrounding nature, with some even making the trip from distant cities for the unique experience and well-informed service.