The fourth generation on a 400-year-old farm.
Located just outside Gouda, the farm of Niek and Willemijn den Boer sits proudly in the heart of the Dutch Krimpenerwaard. This young and dynamic couple represents the fourth generation of their family and runs their farm with energy, passion, and a modern outlook.
Their motto? Collaboration. Because while you might go faster alone, you’ll always go further together.
the cooperative
Niek and Willemijn are the fourth generation of the Den Boer family to live and work on this farm. Cheesemaking has been a part of life on this property for over a hundred years, and their long-standing knowledge and craftsmanship can truly be tasted in their products.
In 1972, the Den Boer family even became world champions with their Boerenkaas. In the mid-1980s, Niek’s mother started a small farm shop where they began selling their cheeses directly to customers.
When a new cheesemaking facility was built in 2016, allowing for increased production, they began looking for a reliable buyer — and found their way to Coöperatie De Producent. What appealed to them most was the cooperative’s strength in unity — bringing together expertise, experience, and shared values.
Because they believe: together you are stronger, and together you go further.
They became members, and today Willemijn is also actively involved as vice-chair of the cooperative’s board.
Entrepreneurial spirit
The farm run by these two young and energetic entrepreneurs is over 400 years old and built on peat soil. To prevent the house from sinking, cowhides were once laid beneath the foundation — and luckily so, because the farmhouse is still standing strong.
The family’s business hasn’t always consisted of two farms. Over twenty years ago, a partnership began with their neighbours — three brothers. Niek first worked on the neighbouring farm as an employee, and later, thanks to the collaboration, he and Willemijn were able to build a new barn. When the last of the three brothers passed away in 2011 and there was no successor, Niek and Willemijn were able to take over the neighbouring farm. The newly merged business was named De Twee Hoeven (“The Two Farms”).
Over the years, the farm and shop have developed significantly. In 2024, the shop was renovated and expanded. An extension was added with a cheese vending machine and a fresh milk tap, allowing neighbours, cyclists, and walkers to stop by even outside regular opening hours — not just for milk and cheese, but also for Boerenijs (farm-made ice cream) from Koel, also made on-site at De Twee Hoeven.
The hay barn has been converted into a rental space for meetings, parties, and events, and it also serves as the reception area for group tours. In addition, the farm has its own app, allowing visitors to explore the barns and grounds at their own pace — and experience farm life first-hand.
farm life
Three days a week, Willemijn and her team produce Boerenkaas in 8, 12, and 16-kilo wheels — both natural and with herbs. The milk comes from their two hundred cows.
Niek and Willemijn deeply enjoy the freedom that farm life offers. Of course, it’s hard work, especially with the responsibility they feel toward their animals, but they genuinely love what they do. Especially in the early morning hours, when the sun rises over the fields.
They both enjoy working outdoors and with nature — and on a farm, every season brings something new. That same enthusiasm is already visible in their three children, who love coming along outside and happily lend a helping hand with the cows.
the future
The agricultural sector has long been committed to building a better future — for both people and animals — and Niek and Willemijn are no exception. Every day, they proudly work to grow and strengthen their farm so that it can continue for generations to come.
They do this together — with their family and team, with fellow farmers, and with the cooperative. Because they believe: you go further when you go together.
