Tucked away on the edge of the village of Echten in Drenthe, Zorgboerderij Naoberhoeve is a biodynamic mixed farm where agriculture, nature, and care come together. The farm operates according to the principles of Community Supported Agriculture (CSA), meaning that members share both the bounty and the risks of the harvest. The on-site farm shop offers a wide range of organic and Demeter-certified products, including the farm’s own fresh vegetables, dairy, meat, eggs, and bread.
Visitors can participate in the self-pick vegetable garden from approximately May through November. For around 30 weeks, members can harvest from over forty different biodynamic vegetable crops, with the exact duration depending on weather conditions. A separate flower-picking garden is also available from roughly May to October, offering a vibrant selection of cut flowers, grasses, and grains for self-picking.
The farm is open to visitors during shop hours, which are Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from 9:00 to 12:15 and 13:00 to 17:00, and Saturday from 9:00 to 16:00. A self-guided walking route across the farm is accessible during these hours year-round, featuring informational boards about the farm’s various activities, including the livestock, gardens, and dairy. The farm is closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Sundays.
What visitors say
This self-picking farm is widely praised as a special, inspiring, and welcoming destination that offers a rich experience steeped in nature. Visitors consistently highlight the farm’s commitment to organic and biodynamic practices, emphasizing that all products—from a wide array of fresh vegetables, fruits, and herbs to dairy, eggs, and meats—are natural, largely self-produced, and often sourced locally from other organic farmers. Reviewers particularly admire the farm’s exceptional dedication to animal welfare, evident in practices such as allowing calves to stay with their mothers for extended periods, and letting cows and pigs roam freely outdoors without ear tags or horn removal.
The farm features a well-stocked and inviting shop where customers can find a comprehensive range of organic groceries, including unique sugar-free buttermilk and delicious organic farm ice cream. While some customers note that the products can be a bit pricey, many acknowledge that the cost is justified by the high quality, ethical standards, and sustainable approach. Beyond the shopping experience, the farm fosters an engaging atmosphere with its “driven and friendly” staff and a “beautiful flourishing farmyard.” It also offers diverse activities, including lively events like markets with handmade goods and live music. Its location adjacent to a beautiful state forest provides additional opportunities for relaxing walks and bike tours, making it a peaceful escape from urban life.