Okay, I’ll admit it. I’m from Victoria. Vancouverites always mock us Islanders, but there are a lot of good things that come from good ol’ Vancouver Island. Tofino and it’s legendary surfing; Hornby Island’s white sand beaches; Coombs’ goats on a roof; And beer. Delicious, craft beer.
However, due to my immediate, post high school evacuation of the homeland, there were many breweries I tragically didn’t discover until later in life: when my beer snobbery took a firm hold.
One of which is Swan’s brewpub in Victoria’s harbour core. Swan’s is a hotel, restaurant, and brewery that will make you feel as if you don’t have to stop anywhere else. There’s good pub food, dancing, and award-winning beer. What else do you need?
The best deal is their six-beer taster flight. There are a couple of different options, but the most economic one boasts six beers for around nine dollars. This includes a generous portion of any of their house-made brews.
If it’s in season, be sure to grab the award-winning Coconut Porter. A little sweet, entirely dark, and immensely satisfying, this beer will quench your thirst all night. The Oatmeal Porter will also satisfy your need for a dark beer while keeping you cool. In the spring, Swans offers a Berry Ale that delivers the summer spirit. Get a pint and you’ll be transported to the carefree, thirty-degree temperatures of August.
If you can, hop on the patio for an equally magical experience. Swans has a fully enclosed outdoor space that offers downtown people watching unparalleled anywhere else in the city.
Touristy or not, this famous brewpub deserves a visit. It’s right on the harbour, it has delicious beer, and it’s a destination in itself. While you’re beer-touring the island, be sure to stop by this iconic pub for a taste of true Victoria brewing.
~ Meghan Roberts