Fruitbedrijf Van Cleef is a fruit farm situated at Meelderbroekweg 2, 5951 NV Belfeld, managed by Ron and Anita van Cleef. The farm’s origins trace back to 1987 when Ron planted his first apple trees, followed by pear trees in 1994, and sweet cherries starting in 2010.
Visitors have the opportunity to self-pick apples during the farm’s annual Apple Picking Day. This event, typically held on the second Sunday of September, allows individuals of all ages to experience being a fruit grower and pick their own apples at a reduced price. The day also includes an open farm shop, a terrace for coffee and cake, a bouncy castle, and an “apple train” for entertainment.
The farm operates a shop where its own cultivated apples, pears, and cherries are available for purchase. The shop also offers juices made from their own pears, Elstar apples, and cherries, as well as cherry and pear liqueurs. In addition to their fruit products, the shop stocks a selection of regional products, farmer’s cheese, seasonal vegetables and fruits, and Bunzlau Castle pottery. Custom gift arrangements can also be created.
The farm shop is open on Thursday afternoons from 13:30 to 18:00, Fridays from 9:30 to 18:00, and Saturdays from 9:00 to 16:00. During the cherry season, the shop extends its opening hours to include Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons.
What visitors say
This delightful farm offers visitors a consistently positive experience, celebrated particularly for its outstanding fruit and inviting atmosphere. Cherries frequently receive high praise, described as exceptionally delicious, the tastiest in the region, and remarkably large. Guests also enjoy delicious apples and pears, with fresh produce readily available, sometimes through a convenient outdoor vending machine.
The farm features a charming and well-stocked shop, often characterized as having a ‘Burgundian’ feel, where a wide array of Limburg regional products can be found. The selection extends to delicious fruit ice cream (including Van Cleef’s), fresh apple and pear juices, chocolates, old-fashioned candies, liqueurs, and even appealing English crockery.
A highlight for many is the warm hospitality, with owners and staff consistently noted for their friendliness and helpfulness. The location provides pleasant seating areas and a lovely terrace, perfect for enjoying an ice cream sundae or a drink on a sunny day. The annual apple picking day is a popular event, creating a fun and educational experience for both families and school groups who get to pick their own apples.