Explore:NW explorenw_spr2019 | Page 23

I T I N E R A R Y | S H O R T H O P S Where to Find Victoria’s Best Toast-Worthy Pours SOAK IN THE COAST To reach the parks highest point, head west to the flagstaff or continue down the field to Dallas Rd. Crossing over Dallas Rd. you’ll enter the park’s leash-optional area. You’ll also enjoy access to its multiple beach access points. Here, your hike can either be ended by retracing your steps. Or, for more fun, you can take the Dallas Rd. Water- front Trail west, as it curves along the coast through Holland Point Park and past the Breakwater Lighthouse. Difficulty Easy. Accessible Year-round. Dogs Permitted on-leash, accept designated off-leash zone. Tips Pack a lunch to enjoy at one of the picnic tables. Bring a camera for the incredible vistas. BEER HAS BEEN BREWED in Victoria longer than anywhere else in BC. This is thanks to William Steinberger, a German gent who moved to the city from San Francisco in 1859. Despite coming during the Fraser Canyon Gold Rush, Steinberger focused his sights on liquid gold — brewing beer to satiate the thirsty prospectors. With the exception of Prohibition from 1916 – 1920 and a two-year span in the early 80s when the city lost its last remaining brewery, Steinberger’s legacy continues to pour throughout the fair capital. But, the real ‘craft’ began in 1984, when both Spinnakers (308 Cath- erine St.) and Vancouver Island Brewing (2330 Government St.) opened. From day one, Spinnakers brewed beer in-house and served their selection with a menu that rivaled its high-qual- ity pours. This ‘gastropub’ mentality was the first of its kind in the city. More than three centuries later, it still remains one of the region’s top beer destinations. When Vancouver Island Brewing opened, they focused on creating a selection of all-natural beers. Prizing quality over quantity, they were slow to grow their year-round and seasonal selections — but the result is a flavorful menu worthy of note. Today, the city is home to more than 13 different breweries and gastropubs. In addition to the founding breweries, some of the top picks include Swans Brewpub & Buckerfield Brewery (506 Pandora Ave.). Located in Victoria’s Old Town, the heritage architecture is im- pressive. So too is the fact that its beers have won more than two dozen awards. With its waterfront location and regular lineup of live music, Canoe Brew Pub (450 Swift St.) is another winner — particularly on a sunny day. Additional craft brewery selections include Hoyne Brewing Company (102-2740 Bridge St.), Moon Under Water Brewpub (350 Victoria may be best known for its afternoon tea and historical charm, but it’s also ground central for British Columbia’s craft beer revolution. Bay St.), and Driftwood Brewery (102- 450 Hillside Ave.). However, arguably the most popular brewery in Victoria can be found in the city’s Burnside neighborhood. Phillips Brewing (2010 Government St.) began in a windowless apartment. But the humble beginnings didn’t keep the founder, Matt Phillips, from flexing his creative muscles. When the brewery launched in 2001, his flavor profiles were considered ‘out of the can’ with a selection that included Espresso Stout and Raspberry Wheat Ale. Phillips continues to explore untraditional flavor profiles and finetune beloved classics. ANSWERS TO CROSSWORD PUZZLE ON PAGE 30. kenmoreair.com 21