Matt Press is a car fanatic and the founder of The Drive Hive, a place where learners can book intensive driving courses.
There are plenty of different beers to try around the world and if you like a tipple or two, maybe you’ve been to some of the more well-known beer festivals that take place all year around, all across the globe. But for every Oktoberfest, there are dozens of other festivals arguably just as good… and only lacking the exposure…
… which is where I come in. If you’re up for a couple of curveballs, then listen up. I’ve shortlisted 5 beer festivals that might have slipped under the radar, but should be on your to-do list for the next 12 months.
Every April, it’s time for the Solothurn Beer Days event in Switzerland. More than 50 small and medium-sized breweries pour out a variety of their best drinks for visitors to enjoy. Plus, everything’s really chilled and set in a beautiful location.
As a beer connoisseur, no doubt you’ll know that Belgium is one of Europe’s top beer producers. Each September, 1,000s flock to the heart of Bruxelles to enjoy an array of drinks. Make sure to taste the traditional Trappist beers made by monks. That’s history in a glass right there.
Fancy combining hiking with beer tasting? Why not? When in Rome… or Austria, in this case. Set in a picturesque village in the Alps, this festival is all about tradition and nature. Think an Alpine Oktoberfest, held 50 years ago.
When it comes to beer, Italy is very much the new kid on the block. But whilst Italians are better known for their wine, craft beers and microbreweries are all the rage now. This festival is in Rome and comes with a free seafood fry-up.
Another unexpected newcomer on the beer scene. This event takes place in the historical Royal Shipyards building and if you’re up for visiting, expect over 300 local and international beers to sample.
So, there are 5 festivals for you to consider, some you might have heard of and some which are more of a hidden secret. The good news is, each place is within touching distance. There are no long flights necessary and plenty of transport options.
As a car enthusiast, I’d recommend taking a road trip and driving to one of these events (just leave the car at the hotel for a few days!). There’s nothing quite like getting behind the wheel for an adventure and you’ll certainly be able to take in the sights. Whether you plump for Spain, Switzerland, Italy, Austria or Belgium, you won’t be disappointed.
