In the heart of Cobble Hill, on southern Vancouver Island, Merridale Cidery & Distillery is a little slice of pastoral paradise — where rolling orchards meet hand-crafted cider, gourmet food, and the kind of slow-living magic you only find in the Cowichan Valley.

If you love farm-to-glass experiences, artisan spirits, and staying somewhere that feels both rustic and refined, Merridale is a must-visit. It’s not just a cidery — it’s a destination.

About Merridale

Merridale began as Vancouver Island’s first craft cidery — and over the years, it evolved into a full estate cidery, distillery, and farm-to-table experience. Every cider, spirit, and cocktail is made right on-site using locally grown apples, honey, and botanicals.

The moment you step onto the property, you’re surrounded by lush orchards, flowering gardens, and the sweet scent of cider aging in oak barrels. It’s peaceful, welcoming, and deeply rooted in the land.

What to Experience

Cidery & Distillery Tastings
Take a guided tasting flight in the farmhouse or on the patio overlooking the orchard. Try their crisp Traditional Dry, refreshing House Cider, or the crowd-favourite Scrumpy. If you prefer spirits, their gin, vodka, and brandy are crafted with the same care and creativity as their cider.

Farm-to-Table Dining
Enjoy a meal at the Merridale Eatery, where everything from the wood-fired pizzas to the cider-glazed pork is inspired by local, seasonal ingredients. The setting — an open-air patio framed by apple trees — is every food lover’s dream.

Orchard Walks
Stroll through the self-guided orchard path, learn about the cider-making process, and watch honeybees buzz between apple blossoms. It’s the perfect way to slow down and soak in the beauty of the Cowichan countryside.

Events & Weddings
Merridale also hosts weddings, community events, and live music nights throughout the year — blending rustic charm with a touch of modern elegance.

Stay Overnight – Merridale Yurts

For a truly unforgettable stay, spend the night in one of Merridale’s luxurious orchard yurts. Each yurt is beautifully furnished with soft lighting, cozy linens, and private decks overlooking the trees.

Wake up to the sound of birds, sip coffee under the apple branches, and wander to the farmhouse for breakfast and fresh-pressed cider. It’s a romantic, peaceful escape — the perfect mix of comfort and countryside simplicity.

Yurt Details:

• Available seasonally (spring–fall)

• Each yurt sleeps 2 adults

• Private washroom access nearby

• Reservations required in advance
  

How to Get There

• Address: 1230 Merridale Road, Cobble Hill, BC

• From Victoria: 45 minutes north via Hwy 1

• From Nanaimo: 1 hour south via Hwy 1

• Website: www.merridale.ca
  

The drive winds through the beautiful Cowichan Valley — known for its vineyards, farms, and artisanal food scene. You can easily pair your Merridale visit with a stop at Blue Grouse Winery, Unsworth Vineyards, or True Grain Bread in Cowichan Bay.

Tips for Visiting

• Come hungry – The restaurant’s cider-braised dishes and local cheese plates are worth the trip alone.

• Try a flight – Sample both ciders and spirits to taste the full Merridale story.

• Picnic option – Bring a blanket and enjoy a quiet spot in the orchard.

• Book ahead – The yurts are popular in summer and weekends fill up quickly.

• Designate a driver – The tasting pours are generous, and the backroads are winding.
  

Why Locals Love It

Merridale is one of those places that makes you exhale. It’s where time slows down, conversations last a little longer, and every sip tastes like Vancouver Island itself — crisp, wild, and full of character.

For locals (like my husband and me), it’s our go-to for date nights, Sunday drives, and long lunches under the apple trees. Whether you’re visiting from afar or just wandering through the Cowichan Valley, Merridale feels like coming home.