There is nothing quite like settling into a welcoming, country pub. Think warm hospitality, cold beer on tap, extensive wine lists, hearty meals and of course the publican who becomes your new best mate. This is exactly what you can expect at the pubs and breweries in the Grampians.
We’ve put together our top recommendations that won’t leave you disappointed.
Stop into Great Western Hotel for a mean, classic pub feed paired with a cold beer and locally produced wine from an extensive wine list. Situated right in the heart of Great Western, the pub was first licensed in the 1860's and has generously served generations of locals and visitors since. Expect warm, country hospitality and fascinating history when visiting the Great Western Hotel, open seven days a week.
This exciting independent microbrewery, located in the town centre of Halls Gap, provides the perfect atmosphere for a tipple or three. Paper Scissors Rock Brew Co. hosts regular live music and events and boasts a seasonal street-food fusion menu.
Settle in after a long day of exploring and work your way through a tasting paddle and bar snacks. All beers are brewed fresh on site, so you know you are tasting something special and unique. Their core range includes Normal Beer, Stone Cold Hazy, Traveller, Red ’67 and Dark Vader. Other taps rotate seasonally to keep things fresh and fun!
Reward yourself with a relaxing local beverage (or two) at the Halls Gap Hotel, where you could easily settle in here for a classic pub feast. With an indoor play area, huge open veranda, further outdoor seating and an outdoor playground, Halls Gap Hotel makes the perfect spot for delicious bistro-style dining in the fresh air. The menu is extensive and includes a great kids’ section.
New to the region, Grampians Ale Works is a small, independent brewing company in Stawell, about a 25 minute drive from Halls Gap Having only just launched their first brew on tap, we suggest keeping an eye on this up-and-comer’s Instagram page for regular news.
At Grampians Ale Works you can also enjoy local wines, hand-crafted spirits, live music and more.
The Kookaburra Hotel offers pub-style dining in a lounge and bar right in the heart of Halls Gap. Enjoy hearty dishes such as steak, barramundi, parmigiana, pie of the day plus much, much more.
With a beer garden and bar, eight beers and ciders on tap, wines, take-away liquor sales and a relaxed ambiance, there’s no better way to end a day than an evening at the Kookaburra Hotel.
Barney’s Bar & Bistro is nestled at the foot of the Grampians in Pomonal, 10km from Halls Gap. What used to be old shearing sheds has now been converted into a cosy bar and restaurant offering delicious pub meals, a variety of beers, ciders, local wines and soft drinks. Barney's Bar & Bistro is family-friendly, pet-friendly and features an outside dining area so you can enjoy the sunset over the surrounding mountain ranges.
Head to this country gem on a Wednesday and Thursday for Barney's famous homemade chicken parmigianas from around the world, think Hawaiian, Greek, Aussie, Mexican and American-style variations that are all a treat.
Located just outside of the Grampians region is Bunyip Hotel Cavendish. Traveller named it “Australia’s best pub meal” so it’s a must-visit if you’re seeking out a quality pub experience while visiting the Grampians.
Dating back to the 1800s, the pub– with its gorgeous Art Deco façade – is a truly beloved local, with a strong community feel. Chef James Campbell knows his stuff when it comes to cooking a delicious meal, previously whipping up culinary delights at highly rated restaurant, Movida. He highlights fresh, seasonal produce from the kitchen garden, even customers bring him produce from their gardens! We highly recommend going there for the Sunday ‘Chef’s Table’ lunch. Five courses for just $48!
So let the pubs and breweries hit your sweet spot, the Grampians way.
