Sonneclaer Farm
BackLocated on Fluitenbergseweg in Drenthe, Hoeve Sonneclaer presents itself as much more than a typical overnight stay. It's a working organic ice cream and cheese farm that offers guests a truly immersive agricultural experience. This farm combines rustic outdoor living with various forms of alojamiento , ranging from a traditional farm campsite to a luxurious glamping experience. The overall atmosphere, as evidenced by the many positive reviews, is one of hospitality and a strong focus on families with children.
Different forms of Hospedaje
Hoeve Sonneclaer offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit various needs and budgets. For traditional campers, there are 25 spacious pitches available on the farm campsite, where guests can pitch their own tent, caravan, or campervan. These pitches are equipped with all necessary amenities, including 6-amp electricity.
At the other end of the spectrum, until recently, was the glamping experience, offered in partnership with FarmCamps. It's important to note that the partnership with FarmCamps is ending, and as of 2026, it will no longer be possible to book the luxury glamping tents. However, the campsite itself will remain open for guests with their own camping equipment. Previously, these safari tents offered a level of comfort comparable to that of cabañas or even compact villas , complete with equipped kitchens, comfortable beds, and a raised deck. One reviewer noted that the four-person tents lacked private showers, forcing guests to use the central restrooms. The six-person tents did have private showers. This was an important distinction for families looking for specific accommodations with private facilities.
The farm as a destination
What sets Hoeve Sonneclaer apart from other campsites or simple hostels is its complete immersion in farm life. This isn't a passive stay; it's an interactive experience. Children have the opportunity to help the farmer with daily tasks, such as feeding the animals and bringing the cows in from the pasture. The farmer is happy to share his knowledge about the animals and organic farming. This educational and fun approach makes the stay unforgettable for children, so much so that some prefer the farm to outside excursions.
Animals and fun
The diversity of animals is a major attraction. Guests can meet cows, calves, goats, alpacas, chickens, runner ducks, rabbits, pigs, and even a donkey. This interaction goes beyond mere viewing; it's an integral part of the hospedaje . Besides the animals, there are extensive play facilities. Several playgrounds, a large air trampoline, go-karts, a water playground, and a hay barn ensure that children never have a dull moment. The layout of the fields, with tents often positioned around the playgrounds, offers parents a good overview.
Products from our own farm and facilities
One of the most praised aspects of Hoeve Sonneclaer is its homemade organic ice cream. The milk from the farm's own cows is processed directly on the farm into ice cream, which is sold in the farm shop. Almost every visitor cites the exceptional quality and taste of the ice cream as an absolute highlight. Besides ice cream, the shop also sells other organic products. For those looking for an active afternoon, the farm also offers farmer's golf and klootschieten (a kind of bowling alley). The central restrooms are described as clean and functional, with showers that provide six minutes of hot water at the touch of a button, which guests find more than sufficient.
Analysis of the pros and cons
What makes Hoeve Sonneclaer a strong choice?
The strength of this company lies in its complete package experience, which goes beyond just a bed or a pitch. It's a kind of mini- resort focused on farm life.
- Child-friendly: The combination of animals, play areas and educational activities is perfect for families.
- Hospitality: The owners are consistently described as warm and welcoming, which contributes to a pleasant atmosphere.
- Authenticity: Guests appreciate the real, working farm and the opportunity to be part of it.
- Quality Products: The fresh, homemade ice cream is a unique and highly appreciated amenity.
Points of attention for potential guests
While the experience is mostly positive, there are some points that future visitors should keep in mind.
- The end of glamping: As mentioned, the luxury FarmCamps tent rentals will cease after 2025. Those looking for a ready-made luxury tent, similar to apartamentos vacacionales , will no longer be able to stay there from 2026 onwards. The focus will shift completely to traditional camping.
- Location: The rural setting offers peace and quiet, but grocery shopping is a short drive (about 10 minutes to Hoogeveen) or a bike ride (about 17 minutes). This isn't a posada or hostería in a city center.
- Self-catering: Unlike in hotels , camping guests are responsible for their own meals and equipment. The farm shop offers tasty treats, but for a full meal, you'll need to go to the supermarket in nearby towns like Hoogeveen or Ruinen.
In short, Hoeve Sonneclaer is an excellent destination for families looking for an active camping holiday on an authentic organic farm. It offers a unique combination of recreation, education, and relaxation. The transition from a mixed offering to a pure focus on farm camping starting in 2026 is a significant development for the future of this business, which will cater to guests who bring their own equipment to enjoy the Drenthe countryside. It's not a standard albergue or departamento , but an experience in itself.