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