'Life is about enjoying the smallest things.'
Welcome to the Cornelis Hoeve, home of the De Haaij family. The farm is now in the hands of daughter Alie, who cares for around seventy dairy cows with passion, joy, and love — and crafts her cheese with the same heartfelt dedication.
Here, farm life is about appreciating the little things.
the cooperative
Farming has been in Alie de Haaij’s family for generations, but since 1993 they’ve been doing so at the Cornelis Hoeve, beautifully located along the dike in Lekkerkerk.
They began supplying cheese to the cooperative in 2011 and officially became members in 2012. In addition to delivering her cheese, Alie is also actively involved as a board member, playing an important role in the cooperative’s future.
the farm
In 2014, the traditional group housing barn was replaced with a freestall barn to provide the cows with more space and comfort — something Alie considers essential. A large portion of the milk her cows produce is used to make lunchkaasjes — small, 1-kilo cheeses available in natural or herb-infused varieties.
Alongside cheesemaking for the cooperative, the on-site farm shop has become an important part of the business. Inspired by the discovery of a small sign reading “Boerenkaas for sale,” the shop was established in the late 1990s. It has since grown into a well-loved farm store, open three days a week, where visitors can buy not only Alie’s cheese, but also her handmade farm-fresh ice cream, a wide selection of local products, butter, and eggs.
Enjoying the process — Now and in the Future
As a child, Alie would sometimes join her father to help milk the cows using the walk-through milking cart. But her real interest in the farm didn’t spark until she was around fifteen. Today, she cherishes farm life and finds joy in everything her land and work bring her — from stunning sunrises and the quiet awakening of nature in the early morning, to conversations with customers and visitors in her shop.
Her daughter Julia already loves lending a hand in her own way, often found in the barn or the cheesemaking facility. And Alie is far from alone — with the support of family and staff, the farm is truly a team effort.
Looking ahead, she hopes to continue caring for her animals — and making her cheese and ice cream — with the same passion, joy, and love for many years to come.
