Get ready to quench your thirst! Victoria is making a tasty name for itself when it comes to producing craft beer – some might even call it the craft beer capital of Australia. From microbreweries to boisterous beer halls, our craft beer lover’s guide will take you on a hop-filled journey to find a pot of (amber) gold at some of the finest independent craft beer breweries in Victoria.
Bodriggy Brewing Co – Melbourne
Tucked in the heart of inner-city Abbotsford, Bodriggy Brewpub is a haven for beer lovers, producing some of the best craft beers in Victoria. With an industrial-chic vibe, the bustling brew hall boasts an astounding 64 beers on tap, including experimental, flavoursome styles that push the boundaries of traditional brewing. Wash an amber pint down with delicious Latin-American fare and stock up at the ‘Froff Shop’ for some brews to take home.
Stomping Ground Brewing Co – Melbourne
Another top brewer serving up fine craft beer in Melbourne, Stomping Ground Brewing Co have been leading the charge. A vibrant and social brewery, Stomping Ground now has three European-inspired beer halls, including Melbourne Airport – the first working brewery inside an airport in Australia. Always trying new things, they offer a wide variety of tasty brews from pilsners to porters, alongside burgers, steaks and Sunday roasts.
Where to stay
You’ll find a range of accommodation options in and around Melbourne to suit all tastes and budgets, from boutique hotels and heritage-style apartments to family friendly hotels. Enjoy nearby attractions, from Bodriggy Brewery Collingwood way to your Stomping Ground stop offs..
Watts River Brewing – Yarra Valley
Escape the city limits and venture into the scenic Yarra Valley to discover the Watts River Brewery, named after the beautiful Watts River that flows through town. Surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards, this Healesville brewery combines stunning views with handcrafted beers. Drawing inspiration from old world Belgian ales and new world craft beers, their lineup caters to a wide range of tastes. Curl up on comfy couches at the cellar door and bring the kids and four-legged friends for a relaxing day in the valley.
Coldstream Brewery – Yarra Valley
Coldstream Brewery is another Yarra Valley gem, offering a warm and welcoming space to relax and enjoy craft beer. As the name suggests, Coldstream is renowned for its cold winter mornings and equally crisp beer and ciders. Set in a historic building with a spacious beer garden, the brewery serves up a selection of its own, brewed on-site. Try a tasting paddle in the Brewery Bar and pair your pint with local Yarra Valley produce for the ultimate culinary experience.
Where to stay
Lilydale is the gateway to the Yarra Valley, and the Econo Lodge Lilydale makes the perfect base for exploring the region. The hotel is located within walking distance of cafes and restaurants, and guests enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi and parking.
Valhalla Brewing – Geelong
Prepare for a rocking, Viking-inspired beer adventure at Valhalla Brewing in Geelong. This unique and award-winning microbrewery is known for its Norse-themed beers and quirky atmosphere, and now has two Valhalla Brewery Geelong locations – the Valhalla Taproom and the Valhalla Brewhall. The state-of-the-art automated brewhouse has 16 beers on tap to choose from, with a focus on quality, creativity and the craft of brewing.
FarmDog Brewing – Geelong
Embrace the paddock-to-pint concept at FarmDog Brewing, where locally-sourced ingredients take centre stage in a rustic farm setting. Located in the heart of the beautiful Bellarine Peninsula, this family-run microbrewery and gin distillery offers a diverse range of beers, including a lager, pale ale, IPA and dark ale. You won’t go hungry either with their delicious burgers, pizzas and grazing options.
Where to stay
Quality Hotel Bayside Geelong is located on the Esplanade and offers amazing water views. It’s the ideal base for exploring breweries in Geelong and everything the Bellarine Peninsula has to offer.
