Kinderboerderij Danikerbos

Yesterday, as Riccardo and I were walking around Geleen, exploring our new home, we walked towards de Daniker forest. Trees in the Netherlands magically grow in straight lines and make specific shapes, however, this forest was a true forest. Trees did not grow in rows nor did they all look the same. Each told its own story.

As we walked around the forest, we saw a sign for a cafe towards an area where we could hear sheep. Clearly attracted to and repeating the sounds of the sheep, we walked and discovered a wonderful surprise: a petting zoo! In this area, children can play with goats, rabbits, chickens, deer and donkeys. There is real interaction with these wonderful creatures that give children a unique experience. 

I will not deny that the commercial use of animals for the pleasure of humans bothers me. However, this place seemed to provide a good life to these animals and a great opportunity for the children (and adults) in the area. As you walk around this small petting zoo, you can also see the areas where veggies and herbs are growing and the local variety of butterflies that visit us. Visiting and playing has no cost, and there is a cafe where you can purchase drinks and ice cream.

As we continue to explore our town, I am sure we will find more treasures like this one. I will not deny that seeing so many trees and so much green makes me smile :)