Dirk Molenaar from the Kleine Vennep Estate

Dirk, we are at the Kleine Vennep Estate. How did your history here begin?

The farm is a family business spanning three generations. I still live here and I still grow food myself, next year will be my 40th harvest! But despite the 80 hectares of land we have for arable farming, we earn little from it. That's just the way it is these days. To make ends meet I have two other businesses: the public estate and a real estate agency. We are not commercial, we feel happy about it. That is the most important thing for us.

Broadly speaking, how did this place develop into what it is today?

The fact that the estate is public is special. But there's a reason for that. The gist of the story is that we have one exchange construction have with the municipality. On the other hand, Kleine Vennep Estate is a place that everyone can enjoy. Thanks to the estate title, the family business can continue to exist in the future. That is what I want.

What can visitors go for today?

My wife and I want people to get lost here. Phones off and living in the moment. You can come by to walk your dog, to build huts. Or walk through the vineyards, flower fields and pear trees and find a nice spot for a picnic. As long as you take your junk with you. There are people I see here twice a day, which is nice to see. For example in the silent forest. And the site can also be used for events, weddings, sports, you name it. We are constantly expanding to make more possible.

How do you get all that done?

I say yes to everything. We'll arrange it. But we are incredibly careful with the site and you can see that in how it is maintained. I do more to the landscape than what should be done according to the regulations. That is indeed a lot of work, this place is never finished. Fortunately, we always have help, we do it together! Including with volunteers. Everyone is very welcome here, and people feel that. Then the beautiful stories will come naturally. Join us for a cup of coffee or enjoy a sandwich for lunch.
 

What other wishes do you have for the Kleine Vennep Estate?

There are always plans, I have endless ones. When I close my eyes I can picture it like this. In any case, what will come is an island with an outdoor theater. And there will also be a glass dome where you can spend the night under the stars. If we talk about the future, in about 20 years, there will certainly be a beautiful landscape hotel here. I certainly see my two daughters playing a role in that. One has completed hotel school, the other has studied psychology and would like to build things for people with disabilities. We are going to work towards that.
 

What are you proud of as a resident and entrepreneur in Haarlemmermeer?

Actually, it's mainly all those people around me. It's not easy to live with me, my mind is always busy and I'm definitely not one to sit still. So I am extremely grateful for that loyal circle. My wife and my two daughters in particular.