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Must-Visit Breweries in Belgium

Belgium, celebrated worldwide for its rich beer culture, is a paradise for enthusiasts wanting to explore its brewing traditions. From the historic and bustling streets of Brussels to the charming canals of Bruges, each city offers a unique beer-tasting experience. This guide will take you through some of the must-visit breweries in Belgium, covering renowned spots in Brussels, Bruges, and Ghent, as well as highlighting the globally revered Trappist breweries. Additionally, discover some hidden gems off the beaten path. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or planning your first beer tour, this guide ensures you don’t miss out on Belgium’s finest brews.

Looking For More Travel Guides?

Consider this guide a gateway to Belgium’s top breweries, a territory where tradition meets innovation. For those eager to uncover more remarkable destinations, each city and region hosts a tapestry of cultural and culinary delights worth exploring beyond the beer. Our travel guides cover other regions, offering insights into local hops, food pairings, and festivals where you can immerse in the country’s vibrant beer scene.

Hop Culture’s Best Breweries to Visit in Belgium

Brussels

Brussels, the heart of Belgium, offers an eclectic mix of breweries that embody both traditional brewing techniques and contemporary craft innovation. The iconic Brasserie Cantillon is a gem, famous for its lambic beers that have been fermented with wild yeast for decades, giving each sip a distinctive sour taste. L’Ermitage provides a modern twist with striking labels and unique flavors that appeal to new-generation beer enthusiasts.

For those keen on experiencing the experimental side of Belgian brewing, Brasserie de la Senne and Brussels Beer Project are worth a visit, offering creative brews that push the boundaries of traditional styles. Moeder Lambic and Poechenellekelder are not just bars but institutions in the beer community, where locals and tourists alike gather for exceptional beer selections. Each visit to these spots showcases how Brussels continues to uphold its reputation as a pivotal city in the world of beer.

Bruges

In the medieval city of Bruges, where the cobblestone streets and serene canals set the stage, the breweries stand as testaments to time-honored brewing excellence. A notable stop is Brasserie De Garre , situated in a narrow alley, making it a hidden treasure. With its strong house-made tripel, it embodies Bruges’ historical ties to rich, full-bodied brews.

Another gem, Brouwerij De Halve Maan , offers tours that culminate in stunning panoramic views of the city, topped off with their signature beer, Brugse Zot. Meanwhile, Le Trappiste provides an atmospheric setting in an underground cellar, perfect for savoring an array of local and international beers on a chilly Bruges evening. The compositions of flavors found in each brewery tell stories of centuries-old traditions mixed with the city’s enchanting charm.

Ghent

Ghent is a city known for its vibrant energy and rich history, and its brewing culture adds to this dynamic allure. At Brouwerij Liefmans , brews are celebrated for their fruity and sour notes, which make them memorable to the palate. This brewery invites visitors to sample beers amid an atmospheric backdrop, perfect for those curious about fruit-infused beers.

Meanwhile, Heilig Hart Brouwerij prides itself on small-scale production, crafting beers that reflect Ghent’s deep brewing roots with modern flair. Stroom pushes creative boundaries, offering unique and bold flavors that define Ghent’s innovative spirit. Visiting these breweries not only enriches your beer knowledge but introduces you to the city’s vibrant socio-cultural tapestry.

Trappist Breweries

Belgium is renowned for its Trappist beers, crafted within the walls of monasteries by the monks themselves. Brouwerij De Sint-Sixtusadbdij van Westvleteren tops the list for many, offering exclusivity and widely regarded as some of the best beers in the world. Procuring a taste requires planning, but the reward is a beer experience worth the effort.

Other significant mentions include Brasserie d’Orval , with its distinctively dry but refreshing ales, and Brouwerij der Trappisten van Westmalle , whose dubbel and tripel beers have set benchmarks in the brewing world. Not forgetting Abbaye Notre-Dame de Saint-Rémy , known for their complex and rich Rochefort sets, where each bottle tells a story of time-honored traditions, perfecting the art of brewing over centuries.

Off The Beaten Path

For those adventurous beer drinkers looking to venture off the conventional trail, Belgium offers numerous hidden breweries that blend innovation and tradition. Brasserie Inter-Pol is celebrated for its unique craft beers, appealing to aficionados seeking distinctive flavors. Over at Brasserie Dupont , the farm-brewed Saison Dupont is a rustic beer that perfectly captures the essence of local terroir.

Another interesting stop is Brasserie à Vapeur , the world’s last fully steam-powered brewery, where the experience involves more than just taste but also a journey through brewing history. Brouwerij De Ranke focuses on robust and hoppy beers, offering a refreshing change from the more common Belgian styles. Each of these hidden gems promises an experience characterized by local charm and innovative spirit, making them worthwhile visits for seasoned explorers.

About The Author

Grace Lee-Weitz

Grace Lee-Weitz is a passionate beer enthusiast and travel writer based in Brussels. With a keen interest in beer cultures and local brewing traditions, Grace explores breweries across the globe, sharing her insights and stories through engaging content. With a background in culinary arts and journalism, her articles offer a delightful blend of description and detailed exploration, aiming to guide readers through their adventures in the world of brews.

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