2025 Urban List - These Are Victoria’s Best Country Pubs That Are Worth The Drive
Tanswell's Commercial Hotel Beechworth , Victoria Country Hotel
An icon of the High Country, Tanswell’s Commercial Hotel in Beechworth is steeped in history and country character. With its grand 19th-century architecture, pressed-metal ceilings, and creaky timber floors, this pub is a true local landmark. It offers a vibrant mix of live music, regional food, and a classic Aussie pub atmosphere across its bar, bistro, beer garden, and upstairs accommodation. Tanswell’s is where rustic charm meets community spirit — a must-visit on any North East Victoria itinerary.
2025 Urban List - These Are Victoria’s Best Country Pubs That Are Worth The Drive
Blackwood Hotel Blackwood, Victoria
A hidden gem nestled in the Wombat State Forest, the Blackwood Hotel is a rustic and welcoming country pub brimming with old-world charm and local flavour. With its iconic corrugated iron roof, bush beer garden, and classic front bar, this historic venue is a favourite among hikers, bikers, and weekend road trippers. Hosting regular live music, hearty pub fare, and friendly locals, it’s the kind of place where the fire’s warm, the beers are cold, and the stories flow freely.
2025 Urban List - These Are Victoria’s Best Country Pubs That Are Worth The Drive
Fish Creek Hotel Fish Creek, Victoria Country Hote;
Sitting proudly at the gateway to Wilsons Promontory, the Fish Creek Hotel is a country pub steeped in character and charm. With its striking art deco façade and iconic fish sculpture above the entrance, this classic rural hotel welcomes locals and travellers alike. Inside, guests are treated to hearty meals, warm hospitality, and a glimpse into the rich artistic heritage of the area, making it a perfect stopover when exploring South Gippsland’s coastal treasures.
2025 Urban List - These Are Victoria’s Best Country Pubs That Are Worth The Drive
Royal Mail Hotel Dunkeld , Victoria Country Hotel
Nestled at the base of the majestic Grampians in Dunkeld, the Royal Mail Hotel is a regional dining destination of national acclaim. With its sleek, architecturally refined design and dedication to sustainable fine dining, this award-winning venue offers a truly immersive experience. Guests come for the multi-course tasting menus at Wickens, the carefully curated wine cellar, and the spectacular mountain views—leaving with memories of hospitality and produce that celebrate Victoria’s southwest with elegance and depth.
2025 Urban List - These Are Victoria’s Best Country Pubs That Are Worth The Drive
Lorne Hotel Lorne , Victoria Country Hotel
Perched above the stunning sweep of Louttit Bay on the Great Ocean Road, the Lorne Hotel is a coastal icon that blends relaxed Aussie pub culture with modern flair. With its breezy oceanfront beer garden, a vibrant bar and dining space, and upstairs boutique accommodation, this historic venue is a beloved meeting point for beachgoers, locals, and travellers. Whether it’s a cold beer with mates or a seaside weekend escape, the Lorne Hotel delivers quintessential coastal hospitality.
2025 Urban List - These Are Victoria’s Best Country Pubs That Are Worth The Drive
Metung Hotel Metung , Victoria Country Pub
Nestled on the shores of the Gippsland Lakes, the Metung Hotel offers a stunning waterfront setting, rich country pub hospitality, and unbeatable views. A favourite among boaters, locals, and tourists alike, this historic hotel serves up classic pub fare with modern touches, local wines, and refreshing ales—all with the backdrop of sailboats gliding across the lake. Whether you’re docking up, dining in, or relaxing with a drink on the deck, the Metung Hotel is pure lakeside charm.
2025 Urban List - These Are Victoria’s Best Country Pubs That Are Worth The Drive
Portsea Hotel Portsea, Victoria Country Hotel
Perched above the sparkling waters of Port Phillip Bay, the Portsea Hotel is a coastal icon delivering timeless charm, unbeatable views, and a lively social atmosphere. With expansive outdoor terraces, elegant dining areas, and a relaxed seaside vibe, it's a premier destination for food, drinks, events, and getaways. Whether you’re visiting for a long lunch, a sunset cocktail, or a weekend stay, Portsea Hotel offers a quintessential Mornington Peninsula experience with a stylish twist.
2025 Urban List - These Are Victoria’s Best Country Pubs That Are Worth The Drive
Wandi Pub Wandiligong , Victoria Country Pub
Tucked into the picturesque mountain hamlet of Wandiligong, the Wandi Pub is a true hidden gem in Victoria’s High Country. Beloved by locals and travellers alike, this rustic country pub blends heritage charm with hearty fare, local beers, and warm hospitality. Surrounded by rolling hills, walking trails, and apple orchards, it’s the perfect pitstop after a day of adventure. Whether you're seeking a family lunch, a fireside pint, or live tunes under the stars, Wandi Pub delivers.
2025 Urban List - These Are Victoria’s Best Country Pubs That Are Worth The Drive
Avoca Hotel Avoca, Victoria Country Pub
Steeped in goldfields history and renowned for its top-tier country hospitality, the Avoca Hotel in central Victoria is far more than your average regional pub. Located on the main street of Avoca, this beautifully restored 1870s hotel blends old-world charm with award-winning food, a celebrated wine list, and a warm, welcoming vibe. It's a destination for foodies, wine lovers, and travellers exploring the Pyrenees wine region or simply seeking a refined yet relaxed country pub experience.
2025 Urban List - These Are Victoria’s Best Country Pubs That Are Worth The Drive
Aireys Pub Aireys Inlet, Victoria Country Pub, Brewpub
A beloved stop along the iconic Great Ocean Road, Aireys Pub in Aireys Inlet serves up sweeping coastal charm, craft beer brewed onsite, and a laid-back Aussie pub experience. With roots dating back over a century, this legendary spot has been lovingly rebuilt and revitalised, now combining breezy open-air spaces, great food, and a family-friendly vibe with views of the Otways and the nearby Split Point Lighthouse. It’s the ultimate coastal pit stop for travellers and locals alike.
2025 Urban List - These Are Victoria’s Best Country Pubs That Are Worth The Drive
Ocean View Hotel Kilcunda, Victoria Country Pub
Perched above the rugged coastline of Bass Strait, the Ocean View Hotel in Kilcunda is a hidden gem offering sweeping sea views, fresh coastal air, and hearty country hospitality. With its prime clifftop location right on the Bass Highway, this beloved watering hole and bistro is the perfect stop for travellers heading to Phillip Island or exploring Victoria’s Bass Coast. Enjoy a cold pint or local wine while taking in some of the best ocean views in the state.