For beer enthusiasts with a taste for adventure, there's nothing quite like hitting the road in search of the world's best brews. From scenic countryside drives to bustling urban beer trails, beer routes offer a unique opportunity to explore diverse brewing cultures, taste local specialties, and discover hidden gems along the way. In this guide, we'll take you on a journey to some of the most iconic beer routes around the world, where you can hop from brewery to brewery, soak in stunning scenery, and raise a glass to the joy of travel and beer.

The Beer Wagon Trail, Oregon, USA

Route Overview

• Starting Point: Portland, Oregon
• Length: Approximately 145 miles
• Highlights: Widmer Brothers Brewing, Cascade Brewing Barrel House, Full Sail Brewing Company

Experience

Embark on a scenic drive through the picturesque landscapes of Oregon's Willamette Valley, where rolling hills, lush vineyards, and towering forests provide the backdrop for a beer-fueled adventure. Stop by the city of Portland, known as the "Beervana" of the Pacific Northwest, to explore its vibrant craft beer scene and iconic breweries like Widmer Brothers Brewing and Cascade Brewing Barrel House. Continue your journey along the Columbia River Gorge, where you can visit the award-winning Full Sail Brewing Company and enjoy panoramic views of the stunning Cascade Mountains.

The Belgian Beer Trail, Belgium

Route Overview

• Starting Point: Brussels, Belgium
• Length: Approximately 105 miles
• Highlights: Westvleteren Brewery, Orval Brewery, Brasserie de Rochefort

Experience

Discover the rich brewing heritage of Belgium as you traverse the country's scenic countryside and charming towns on the Belgian Beer Trail. Begin your journey in the historic city of Brussels, where you can sample iconic Belgian beers like Lambic, Gueuze, and Trappist ales at traditional beer bars and taverns. Continue your exploration to the picturesque countryside of West Flanders, home to legendary breweries like Westvleteren Brewery and Brasserie de Rochefort, where you can taste world-renowned Trappist ales and Abbey beers in their authentic settings. Don't miss the chance to visit the mystical Orval Brewery, nestled in the scenic Ardennes region, and discover the secrets behind its unique and complex Trappist ale.

The Bavarian Beer Route, Germany

Route Overview

• Starting Point: Munich, Germany
• Length: Approximately 560 miles
• Highlights: Weihenstephan Brewery, Kloster Andechs, Schneider Weisse

Experience

Immerse yourself in the rich brewing traditions of Bavaria as you embark on a beer pilgrimage along the Bavarian Beer Route. Begin your journey in the beer capital of Munich, where historic beer halls, bustling beer gardens, and world-famous breweries await. Explore iconic landmarks like the Hofbräuhaus and the Viktualienmarkt, where you can sample traditional Bavarian beers and hearty cuisine. Venture into the scenic countryside of Upper Bavaria, where you can visit historic monasteries like Kloster Andechs and Weihenstephan Brewery, the oldest brewery in the world. Don't miss the chance to taste authentic Bavarian wheat beers and bocks at renowned breweries like Schneider Weisse and Ayinger Brewery, and discover why Bavaria is a true beer lover's paradise.

Conclusion

Hoppy trails await beer enthusiasts around the world, offering a unique opportunity to explore diverse brewing cultures, taste local specialties, and create unforgettable memories along the way. Whether you're embarking on a scenic drive through Oregon's Willamette Valley, tracing the footsteps of Trappist monks in Belgium, or raising a stein in the beer gardens of Bavaria, the world is full of beer routes waiting to be explored. So pack your bags, plan your route, and set off on a beer-fueled adventure of a lifetime. Cheers to hoppy trails and unforgettable journeys!