How far are people willing to hike for a pint of beer? At least 18 miles.
The world’s most remote pubs actually get plenty of business. From the middle of the U.K. boonies to the edge of a sweltering desert, dedicated bar flies are willing to go to great lengths for a drink.
There’s certain a sense of pride that comes with sipping a brew in a tavern that wasn’t easy to get to. So if the notion of downing a wee tipple in the middle of nowhere wets your appetite, include one of these remote pubs in your next travel plans.
The Old Forge, Scotland
You can either take a boat or hike 18 miles to the Old Forge pub in Inverie, Scottland.
No roads lead to this 17th Century tavern. To sample what’s on tap at The Old Forge, you’ll have to either take a boat or hike 18 miles across the Knoydart Peninsula.
This deliciously remote pub, found in the village of Inverie, began as a “smiddy’s forge” and later evolved into a social club for the workers in the area.
The Old Forge was sold in November to Belgian hotelier Jean-Pierre Robinet, who fell in love with the place 15 years ago. It was quite the career change: Robinet left the swanky luxury hotel scene to step behind the bar of this rustic old tavern.
“I have run some of the best hotels in the world but this place is just magic. I want to do my best for the place and people,” Robinet told the U.K.’s Daily Record.
The Birdsville Hotel, Australia
The Birdsville Hotel, an iconic Australian pub located in the sweltering Simpson Desert.
Everyone arrives at this pub thirsty. Sitting in a sweltering desert the size of France, the Birdsville Pub has been serving those brave enough to explore the Australian outback since 1884.
Birdsville is one of Australia’s most remote towns, being nearly 1,600 kilometres from the cities of Adelaide and Brisbane. The population in Birdsville is less than 100.
This pub is a legend in the Australian outback. And with temperatures often hovering above 40 degrees Celsius, grabbing a cool beer is an absolute must for anyone touring this desolate part of the world.
Ponderosa Pub, Ireland
Resting on an enclave overlooking the Mourne Mountains, this tavern has the distinction of being Ireland’s highest pub. The Ponderosa’s remote location keeps it off the grid, which means the bar must rely on a generator for power and a mountain spring for water.
Although not quite as remote as the other two watering holes on the list, this rustic little spot is still miles away from civilization. You’ll also find some killer trails in the surrounding Sperrin Mountains.
Do you know of a remote pub not on this list? Tell us about it in the comments below.
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