Dutch Roadside Stands, Netherlands

From April until late October I can be sure to find a roadside stand along most of my bike routes. Most capture my attention to the point that I stop, look, and then fish through my pockets or purse for money. Usually I head home with more in my bike bags than when I started the ride.

The stands can be as simple as a box with a few items to an entire impressive sales area.

I have never found two exactly the same.  Each are as individual as the growers/owners.

I thought it might be nice to show off the various ones I have biked pass in the last few weeks.

 

These people made their veggie stand very simple by placing a box on their bench that sits on the street sidewalk. Money is placed in the small containers.

 

 

 

On the edge of Oud Alblas is a farm/greenhouse that has a more robust selection and a noticeable “store front”.  I have been to this location several times this summer and have yet to see the people who run this operation.  The yard gate is open early most mornings and is closed in the late evening.  It seems to be where most local people go to pick up fresh veggies.

 

 

 

 

Closer to our house in North Holland we have several locations where the veggie/ fruit stands are available.

Inside the veggie automatic building there are boxes that contain potatoes, onions, eggs, or chips.  Each box has a number, you look to see what number box still contains items, and then make your selection, the box then opens (after you deposit your money) and you pull your item out. Then pack the item on your bike and take it home. A very simple and a great way to get exercise and do the shopping at the same time.

They even have a nice basket so people can return the empty egg cartoons.

 

Abbenes, North Holland, has a wonderful pick your own fruit farm.  On the days when I am lazy I just pick something up from their inside stand. The day I took these pictures, I spent the early morning picking blueberries and raspberries right from the bushes.

 

I would recommend for anyone visiting the Netherlands to see the country by bike. To stop at these wonderful little roadside stands and to purchase these fresh homegrown treats.  It is a healthy, cheap, and fun way to experience the Dutch countryside.

Have you ever been on vacation and found a really cool roadside stand?  Share it with my readers in the comment section below.

 

© The Cedar Journal, 2018, all rights reserved.