ABV
Abbey Brewing Ventures
Do you love craft beer with a passion that raises eyebrows?
Do you brew at home?
Or do you just enjoy having a good time in a beautiful Old World setting?
Whatever level of beer enthusiast you are, ABV has a unique adventure planned for you. Consider sipping the world's best beers with experts and new friends in one of the most beautiful places in the world. Our team has assembled brewing experts, travel consultants, and local partners to take you on the trip of a lifetime.
We'll visit 13 of the most famous breweries in history, following centuries-old traditions and adopting new technologies to make every sip a rare pleasure. We'll also learn about brewing and the beer industry and explore the culture behind the best beers and breweries with additional excursions and trip highlights.
Abbey Brewery Ventures (ABV) is made up of three experienced Americans who love this part of the world as much as they love beer.
From their Virginia home in the Shenandoah Valley, ABV's David Hardy and Molly O'Donnell have been leading successful tours to Belgium and The Netherlands for over seven years. In that time, they have lived in Antwerp, Belgium, and explored many of the corners of the Flemish, Dutch, and French-speaking world with Americans looking to know more about these beautiful places.
Some groups have been large (up to 21 people), and some groups have been small (12 people). While every group of travelers is unique, all have enjoyed themselves and have become ambassadors to future participants. In many cases, participants have made lifelong friends along the way.
ABV's Eric Kremer has decades of experience working in the American beer industry. He also has a passion for travel and has toured many of the breweries we'll visit together, both in a professional capacity and as an avid fan of all things brewing. When he's not traveling, he lives in the Pacific Northwest.
What's Included?
Ten days of tours and tastings at world-famous Belgian breweries; all breakfasts and some lunches; transportation and tour in major Belgian cities like Brussels and Antwerp and charming historic towns like Bruges and Gent; presentations and hands-on learning experiences...all-things beer (topics include everything from hops farming to the business of beer); accompanying expert guides with years of experience in the area and, of course, beer.
Where will we stay?
Our host institution is the Irish College in Leuven, a historic town about 16 miles east of Brussels, Belgium. The facilities offer the best of both the Old World and the new with all the modern amenities.
Will I have my own room or share?
The decision is yours! If you would like to be matched with others with similar interests and lifestyles (or ages), you will have that option. If you or your party prefers to have your own room, that can be accommodated at a different rate.
Who else is going?
Likeminded, adult beer enthusiasts, ranging from full-on nerds to casual fans who want a beautiful setting.
Is transportation included?
All on-the-ground transport is included by private coach. We are happy to suggest flight itineraries.
Which breweries will we visit?
The GOAT breweries -- Braxatorium Parcensis, Hof ten Dormaal Farm Brewery, De Halve Maan, Stella Artois, Stroom, Dok Brewing Company, Sint Bernardus, Rodenbach, Cantillon Geuzerie, La Source, De Konnick, and Duvel (yes, that last one means Devil :)
What else will we do?
We'll take walking tours, have the opportunity to explore Belgian cities and towns by boat, engage in fascinating conversations about the history of brewing and the modern beer industry, visit farm brewers, and see impressive art and artifacts. Our guides will make recommendations along the way and answer questions about things to check out in your free time, as well as future travel to other parts of Europe.
What's special about this trip (vs. others)?
Unlike trips that hop all over the place, our experience offers you the chance to explore Belgium while only unpacking once. You'll settle into your lovely spot, then we'll take you on the day's adventures and bring you back.
Because of the knowledge and experience of our American team and their European partners, you'll never have to worry about the details of planning an international trip. Everything is taken care of for you, so you can relax and enjoy the best of the world of Belgian beer, making new friends along the way.
ABV also balances special engagements and schedules with free time, so you can explore what interests you and, importantly, socialize on an adventure designed for you.
Do I need to know how to speak Flemish or French?
Nope. Belgians speak many languages, and you'll find most of them are happy to speak English. Plus, our American guides and their partners speak a decent amount of Flemish, Dutch, and French.
Can I talk to someone on the phone, in-person, or via Zoom to learn more?
Absolutely! A member of our ABV team is always happy to chat. Contact us to setup a time.