Do you dream of a holiday where you breathe in the salty sea air while the chickens scratch around your feet? In Zeeland, vast farmland and the proximity of water go hand in hand. Here you will discover how peaceful the countryside really is and within a short time you are on the dike or on one of the many beaches.
Farm vacations Zeeland between the animals and the coast
In Zeeland you will find a unique mix of arable and livestock farming, often just a few kilometers from the water. If you choose to stay in the farmyard, you can see the tractor driving across the land while experiencing the peace and quiet of the polder. It's the perfect place for children who want to learn where their food comes from. Many Zeeland farmers are happy to show you how they run their farms, and often you'll even get to lend a hand feeding the calves or tending to the horses. Because a standard hotel room is no longer enough for everyone, more and more people are choosing to spend a special night on an active farm in Zeeland.
Luxury vacation farm Zeeland for families and couples
A holiday in the countryside does not mean sacrificing comfort. There are more and more vacation farms in the Netherlands that are equipped with all modern conveniences or, on the contrary, are extra luxuriously furnished. Think of a converted barn with underfloor heating, a sleek kitchen and a large terrace overlooking the wheat fields. In regions such as Walcheren or Zuid-Beveland, old stables have been transformed into stylish homes. Here you enjoy the enormous privacy offered by a large yard, while in the evening you are in no time in a cozy village such as Domburg or Zierikzee for a bite to eat.
Authentic sleeping at the farm not far from the water
The combination of farm life and the proximity of the Oosterschelde or the North Sea makes this province so special. You can help the farmer bring in the cows early in the morning and lie on your towel by the North Sea an hour later. The distances in Zeeland are small, so you can get to the waterfront from most farms within ten or fifteen minutes by bike. This makes it an ideal base for people who love nature but also seek the conviviality of coastal towns. Many farms sell their own produce in a small store on the property, so you won't find fresher eggs or potatoes for dinner anywhere.
Glamping on a sheep farm in Zeeland with the whole family
For those who want the atmosphere of camping but don't want the hassle of tent poles, opting for glamping on a farm in Zeeland is a smart move. You often sleep in a luxury safari tent or a wooden lodge in the middle of the meadow. Especially on sheep farms in the spring, this is an unforgettable experience. When the lambs are playing outside and you are enjoying the view in front of your tent with a cup of coffee, you will feel the stress melt away immediately. These tents usually have private bathrooms and good beds, so you wake up rested by the sound of nature instead of a roaring engine on a busy road.
Spacious group accommodation in Zeeland in the countryside
Looking for a place for a family weekend or an outing with a large group of friends? You can find several large group accommodations in Zeeland that are part of a working farm. The big advantage of this is the enormous space around the house. Whereas on a regular park you often have to take the neighbors into account, on the farm you have all the space you need for a game of soccer or a cozy barbecue on your own property. The old large barns often accommodate groups of 12 to as many as 30 people, with large common areas where everyone can eat and relax together.
Enjoy Zeeland's tranquility and the vast horizon
Staying on a farm gives you a perspective you miss in a city or busy park. Here, the horizon is still truly empty and the nights are still truly dark. The rhythm of the farm determines the day, providing a natural form of unwinding. You watch the sun slowly set behind the dike as the wind blows through the grain. For many visitors, this is the main reason for returning to the Zeeland countryside. It offers a safe and orderly environment where children can play and explore safely.
Tips for booking a farm near the sea
If you want to make sure you end up in the right place, look carefully at the specific location of the farm. In high season, the spots closest to the popular seaside resorts are booked up the fastest. If you are willing to go a few kilometers further inland, you often get much more peace and quiet and space for your money. Also pay attention to the type of farm; an arable farm is very quiet in the summer while a dairy farm has plenty of activity every day. Book your stay well in advance if you want to go during the May or summer holidays, as farm holidays are more popular than ever.
Frequently asked questions
Where are the most vacation farms located in the province of Zeeland?
Most stays can be found on the islands of Walcheren and Schouwen-Duiveland. These locations are popular because they combine the tranquility of the polder with a short distance to the North Sea coast or the dikes of the Oosterschelde and Westerschelde estuaries.
What activities can children do while staying with a farmer?
Children often help feed calves or groom ponies in the yard. In addition, many farms offer additional entertainment, such as riding on a tractor, playing in the haystack or go-karting around the dairy farm property.
Are dogs allowed on a Zeeland farm vacation?
Dogs are welcome in many locations, provided they are kept on a leash due to livestock or poultry present. Always check the specific arable or livestock farmer's house rules, as some yards have a ban in place to protect sheep or young lambs.
What is the difference between glamping and a regular vacation farm?
With glamping, you sleep in a ready-made safaritent or lodge in the middle of the pasture with plenty of outdoor space. A vacation farmhouse is usually a stone house or apartment in the original building, which offers more insulation and comfort during colder fall or winter months.
When is the best time to visit a sheep farm?
The months of March and April are ideal because that's when most lambs are born on the Zeeland clay. During this spring period, activity on the farm is high and you experience the birth of new life up close on the farmyard.