Many people dream of living more in harmony with nature and having their own vegetable garden to live on. Natascha and her family made this a reality. The family's vegetable garden "got a bit out of hand," and the land next to their house—which had been occupied by an old pear orchard—became available. The vegetable garden became a pesticide-free, pick-your-own garden for dozens of families in the area. People help in the garden, connect with each other, and children—and adults—learn where their food comes from and how to harvest vegetables. The garden is full of inspiration. And worth a visit if you're in the area. Come pick, come taste, and be sure to take home a bouquet of flowers you've picked yourself.

At the end of the yard there are two Wikkelhouses of the Linschoten's testing groundThis Dutch concept builds houses from (wrapped) cardboard and wood in a sustainable way. It sounds stuffy, but it's anything but. The design and furnishings are fantastic. The rounded corners of the wooden house and the circular designer furniture are interspersed with vintage elements. The beds are incredibly comfortable, and showering—in the wooden bathroom with a round window overlooking the pear orchard—has never been so cozy.

Near the Linschoten Proeftuin you will find the picturesque Oudewater, Gouda and plenty of places to enjoy a nice walk.