Landgoed de Peerdegaerdt is a unique seven-hectare estate located in Strijen, within the Nationaal Landschap de Hoeksche Waard. The estate features an historic high-stem orchard, a rose and walking garden, and an ecological vegetable garden. It serves as a multifaceted non-profit, functioning as a care farm, an animal sanctuary, and a venue for workshops and activities. The property is LGBTQ+ friendly, run by a female entrepreneur, and has a wheelchair-accessible parking area.
While the estate hosts seasonal pick-your-own events for fruit from its orchard, the primary produce available for self-picking comes from the estate’s large, 2500m² ecological vegetable garden. This is offered as part of the specifically organized Workshop Moestuinieren (Vegetable Gardening Workshop). During this workshop, participants can harvest their own seasonal produce—such as vegetables, herbs, and flowers—to take home. These pick-your-own activities are available seasonally, with the workshop being offered at various times throughout the year, typically starting in the spring.
The estate is open by appointment only. Standard business hours are Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and according to Google Business directory information, it is also open on Saturdays and Sundays from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The annual outdoor season and many of its workshops begin in April.
What visitors say
Landgoed De Peerdegaerdt is consistently celebrated as a remarkably beautiful and serene estate, frequently described as a “paradise on earth” where visitors can truly unwind and connect with nature. The inviting atmosphere and well-maintained environment are recurring highlights across various reviews.
The farm offers a diverse array of engaging activities and workshops designed to cater to a wide audience. Popular experiences include unique “pig cuddling” sessions, highly recommended for their blend of fun and education, as well as practical workshops focusing on permaculture and biological vegetable gardening. These sessions provide valuable insights into sustainable living and are often praised for being enthusiastically led by knowledgeable guides. Additionally, visitors can enjoy horse coaching, participate in special events for children during holidays, or indulge in a delightful High Tea featuring fresh, often organically grown, ingredients. The opportunity to interact with various animals, many of whom are rescued and live freely on the estate, is a significant draw. In season, guests can also enjoy picking fresh apples and pears from the orchard.
A core aspect of De Peerdegaerdt’s mission is its strong social and inclusive ethos. The estate functions as a care farm, providing day activities for individuals with disabilities. Reviewers consistently commend the dedicated staff and passionate volunteers for their compassionate and effective approach, particularly with children with special needs. This commitment to animal welfare, human well-being, and ecological sustainability creates an environment that is genuinely friendly to animals, people, and nature.
While the overwhelming sentiment is positive, a few isolated points of criticism have been raised. One visitor questioned the pricing of certain food items, perceiving them as overly commercial. Another expressed frustration over a lack of follow-up regarding a job application. There was also a reported incident where a pre-booked horse coaching session was cancelled due to adverse weather, and the participant did not receive the cancellation notification, leading to disappointment upon arrival. However, these specific concerns do not detract significantly from the overall positive feedback regarding the estate’s beauty, offerings, and commendable social mission.