This self-picking farm, Fruitpluktuin, is located at Hopweg 64 in Rutten. It features a half-hectare (5000 m2) fruit garden with approximately 20 rows of various fruit plants, with plans for further expansion. Visitors are invited to pick their own fresh fruit directly from the garden.
The produce available for self-picking includes:
- Berries: Blackberries (July to October), Raspberries (summer varieties from June to August, autumn varieties from September to October), Redcurrants (June to July), Kiwiberries (September to October), and Elderberries (September to November).
- Orchard Fruits: Apples (Elstar, Pinova, Exelent Star, and Golden Reiners varieties from mid-September to early October), Pears (Gieser Wildman (stewing pear), Conference, and Donyenne du Comise varieties from September to October), Cherries (Kordia, Regina, and Lapins varieties from mid-July to early August), Plums (Victoria Rood and Opal Blauw varieties from July to August), Apricots (Bredase variety from August to September), Peaches (Amsden variety in August), and Nectarines (Madame Blanchet variety from August to September).
- Other Fruits: Grapes (September to October).
Beyond the self-picking experience, the farm also grows and offers other produce such as potatoes, onions, pumpkins, gourds, and sunflowers. They sell homemade jam, liqueur, and a variety of fresh fruits like strawberries, mini watermelons, and wild peaches directly from their farm. Information on plucking times and recipes for dishes like fruit tarts and healthy shakes using self-picked fruit are available. Guided tours of the farm can be arranged by appointment.
What visitors say
This self-picking farm is widely praised as a delightful and engaging destination for families and individuals alike. Visitors consistently highlight the abundance and variety of delicious fruit available, including popular choices like blackberries, raspberries, strawberries, and other berries. While one reviewer noted that some strawberries could be challenging to pick due to dryness, the overall sentiment regarding fruit quality is excellent.
The farm is particularly celebrated as a fantastic outing for children, who not only enjoy the hands-on experience of picking their own fruit but also benefit from learning about its origins. Beyond the fruit, the premises offer various forms of entertainment for kids, such as a trampoline and a treehouse, ensuring a comprehensive and fun visit. The pricing is generally considered fair, with examples such as two baskets of fruit for 5 euros or 3 euros per punnet.
Operating largely on a self-service model, including QR code payment, the farm offers a flexible experience. Reviewers appreciate the owners, describing them as incredibly sweet, sympathetic, helpful, and hardworking, noting they also provide useful explanations about what is growing and when to pick. The location itself is lauded as a beautiful and peaceful spot. An initial concern about the lack of toilet facilities was addressed by the owner, confirming that a toilet cubicle is available. Adding to the unique charm, some visitors were pleasantly surprised to find smoked fish on offer.