From wine excursions to mysterious lakes and burial grounds, a getaway to Prince Edward County is an excellent weekend escape. Country houses and vineyards are nestled in lush greenery and surrounded by water on all sides. There are many issues to do in Prince Edward County to please {couples} and households on the lookout for a getaway to the nation.
Things to do in Prince Edward County, Ontario
Travelers can attain Prince Edward County through the historic Loyalist Parkway from Toronto. The Loyalist Parkway was constructed after the American Revolution within the 18th century and immediately runs via Prince Edward County. As quickly as you glide into the county you’ll uncover there are an entire bunch of issues to do in Prince Edward County.
Take A Wine Tour
Wine excursions are definitely on the high of our record and ought to be on yours as effectively when visiting Prince Edward County. I keep in mind a number of years in the past, all my wine buddies had been tripping over themselves and singing the praises of Italian wine and French wine however that’s all modified.
Canadian wine is definitely getting high marks for a few of the finest wines on the earth. Prince Edward County isn’t simply any vineyard area; it’s house to virtually 40 wineries that produce every part from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir to dessert wines.
Prince Edward County’s repute as a wine vacation spot is well-earned and true. It has the right microclimate (I discovered that on a wine tour) and nice soil which each mix for excellent situations for cultivating wine. Beyond the bottles, the vineyards themselves are a feast for the eyes. Whether you’re a sommelier or simply beginning your wine journey, the County’s wineries is not going to disappoint.
In reality, Prince Edward County is acknowledged as considered one of three viticultural areas in Ontario by VQA Ontario Appellations of Origin. Who knew?
Some of Our Favourite Wineries
Having visited fairly a number of wineries within the county, we’ve some favorites. These are our suggestions for the place it’s best to attempt first. Sandbanks is a should. Then I’d attempt Grange of Prince Edward Vineyards after which on to Huff Estates. That ought to get you began. You can try our map of Prince Edward County Wineries above.
Prince Edward County Breweries
And whereas we’re with regards to drinks, let’s not overlook Prince Edward County breweries. In reality, virtually 50% of the island grew barley for beer lower than 100 years in the past. Now, the breweries have gotten a bit fancy, so that you’re not simply chugging a pint in your trip, however slightly, you get to expertise craft beer and meals pairings. In the spirit of the Prince Edward County neighborhood, lots of the pubs will give you a beer-tasting flight from their brewery companions. That method, you get to style the entire county in a single place.
Craft brewing and ciders have additionally discovered a house in Prince Edward County. Since I can’t have gluten, beer is off the desk, so I’m now stepping into ciders. The breweries and cideries invite you to style a world of flavors, from crisp apple-based drinks to hoppy ales. Several supply excursions so you may study concerning the brewing course of and what goes into each glass. Some of our favorites are Lake on the Mountain Brewing Company, Parsons Brewing Company, and Prince Eddy’s Brewing.
Millennium Trail Adventures and Wildlife
One of the very best methods to discover Prince Edward County is to get on the roughly 50 km lengthy Millenium Trail. The path runs across the county, so there are lots of locations you will get on and off the path. You get an opportunity to see every part from wetlands to farms to wineries and pubs whereas being serenaded by an orchestra of Prince Edward County fowl species. If quiet is without doubt one of the belongings you’re looking for, then you definitely’ll discover it on the Millennium Trail, too. You can take pleasure in pure tranquillity as turtles and toads quietly accompany you in your stroll or bike trip across the winding paths of Prince Edward County.
The Millennium Trail begins in Carrying Place and ends in Picton
Lake on the Mountain
It’s a thriller for Ontario guests and locals alike that Lake on the Mountain sits near 60 meters above Lake Ontario however appears to don’t have any direct water supply. The most puzzling factor is that the lake has a year-round circulation of freshwater, and geologists can’t clarify the place that freshwater comes from.
Prince Edward County has lots of points of interest, however this lake must be considered one of its most mysterious. The Mohawks name it the Lake of the Gods, because it appears it’s the Gods themselves that ship that water up into this mountain lake. You’ll need to test it out for your self and give you your personal principle.
Stroll Along Picton’s Main Street
Walking down Picton’s Main Street in Prince Edward County is a deal with in case you are into procuring, superb eating places, and artwork galleries. Picton’s Main Street is lined with nineteenth century buildings, it’s like stepping again in time. The structure actually is a storybook of its historical past.
Several artwork galleries on the Main Street function native artists. From conventional to fashionable artwork, it displays the thriving arts neighborhood in Prince Edward County.
If you’re there at night time, be certain that to take a look at the long-lasting Regent Theatre, a historic Edwardian opera home that sits proudly on Main Street. It’s not simply an architectural landmark however a cultural hub for movie, stay performances, and concert events. It is the right method to spend the night.
Local Tip: One of the road’s finest options is the meals. From cozy cafes to upscale eating places, there are a ton of choices. Many of the institutions use native substances, so that you’ll be tasting the county in each chunk.
Apple Orchards in Picton
Picton can also be the realm you need to go to to get to the center of apple orchard nation. Picton is house to greater than a half dozen orchards the place quite a lot of apples are grown. Not solely are you able to decide apples, however some orchards present different actions, too. At Campbell’s Orchards, you may discover a maze, get wagon rides, and even pet cattle on the petting zoo. Over at The Big Apple, you may nosh on cookies and different baked items at their bakery and go to their sweet retailer and reward retailer for some souvenirs.
Prince Edward County Lavender Farm
Lavender is understood for its therapeutic qualities, akin to serving to with leisure and sleep whereas countering fatigue and nervousness. You will in all probability odor Prince Edward County Lavender Farm earlier than you see it. The farm, positioned in Hillier, grows many forms of lavender for each medicinal and culinary makes use of. You can stroll the purple fields after which store for lavender important oils, soaps, and lotions, in addition to lavender teas and sweets. It is open every day from spring to round Christmas.
Bed and Breakfast Destination
If you need to get the total therapeutic worth of being on a lavender farm, then you definitely may need to spend the night time at The Lavender Farm Bed and Breakfast. That night time may provide the finest sleep you’ve ever had. A go to to this place can assist change your mind-set from adverse to optimistic due to the optimistic qualities related to the scent of lavender. You might even have the ability to try their lavender pageant for those who go on the proper time, you’ll need to contact them to seek out out extra particulars on that.
Kinsip Distillery Maple Whiskey
Maple syrup is a present from the gods, and whenever you add that to whiskey, you get maple whiskey, and it’s out of this world. Not many distilleries open their doorways to the general public, so that you’ll be comfortable to know you may go to the Kinsip House of Fine Spirits for tastings.
They are well-known for his or her maple syrup whiskey, however there’s tons to take pleasure in of their tasting room. You can attempt all types of regionally made spirits like vodka and bitters, too. Once you’ve discovered your favourite, you may take an entire bottle house to share with those that didn’t get to return to Prince Edward County with you.
Schoolhouse 77
If you’ve ever learn books like Anne of Green Gables (for those who’re Canadian, precisely what I imply), then you definitely’ve in all probability questioned what it could be wish to go to highschool in a Canadian schoolhouse. Well, you may cease questioning and go to Schoolhouse 77 in Picton to get a really feel for what college students felt like in Canada a century in the past. Schoolhouse 77 is a one-room schoolhouse that was in-built 1875.
It’s been restored and is now a small market the place you should buy farm produce, antiques, and native handmade merchandise. If you’re a bicycle owner you’ll be comfortable to know you’ll find fundamental bike restore instruments on the schoolhouse in case you’ve gotten some bother when you’re out biking the Millenium Trail.
Glass Studios
If you recognize the great thing about glass artwork, then you definitely’re going to need to go to the varied glass artist workshops in Prince Edward County. Handmade glassworks have gotten harder to seek out today, however the artwork is alive and thriving within the county. For people who love the intricacy of stained glass, a go to to Pete’s Stained Glass Studio in Milford is so as.
You can try his attractive customized stained glass panel items. However, if glass jewellery and dishware are extra your factor then Lala Land Glass Studio in Bloomfield is perhaps price a go to. If you’re a collector of blown glass, Armstrong Glassworks positioned in Wellington is price trying out for its distinctive and colourful bowls, vases, and plates. Call forward to seek out out when the artist will probably be at work so you may watch him blow the glass himself.
Sandbanks Provincial Park
Canada is called the Great White North, and that’s why many guests are shocked to study that Canada has heat seashores. Some say the very best Canadian seashores might be present in Prince Edward County and, extra particularly, in Sandbanks Provincial Park on Lake Ontario, which is house to a few of them. Sandbanks Outlet Beach is nice for households to go to because it has shallow waters for the kiddoes to play in.
Sandbanks Provincial Park is a pure marvel, boasting a few of the world’s largest freshwater dunes. The park is a haven for nature fanatics, with various natural world. Birds, particularly, flock right here, making it a bird-watcher’s paradise. Additionally, the park gives a number of actions like mountaineering, swimming, and picnicking, making certain a day stuffed with journey and leisure.
Head For The Beach
The seashores of Prince Edward County will not be simply stretches of sand; they’re an invite to experience nature’s magnificence. From family-friendly spots with mild waves to secluded shores that promise serenity, there’s a seashore for each customer. Warm summer time days see them buzzing with exercise, from sandcastle constructing to seashore volleyball. As the solar units, they rework into tranquil landscapes, with the waves enjoying a mild lullaby.
Dunes Day Beach on the park is attractive due to these dunes, one thing you don’t usually see within the Canadian panorama. Just exterior of Sandbanks Provincial Park is Wellington Beach, which is smaller than the opposite seashores and gives a extra intimate expertise. North Beach Provincial Park has its personal sandy locations. The space has paved trails and likewise a big space for individuals to picnic in. Regardless of which seashore you select, you’re going to discover a calm ambiance because the area attracts largely households and {couples}.
Visit the Wellington Farmers’ Market
To get an actual style of Prince Edward County, you’re going to need to try the Wellington Farmers’ Market. The market gives you with a single place from which you’ll be able to try items from everywhere in the island, together with wines from any winery that has partnered with the market and the native produce. You’ll discover every part from baked items from artisan outlets to hand-crafted jewellery and antiques.
Prince Edward County Arts Trail
Prince Edward County is an artist’s paradise. Look for the blue Arts Trail indicators round Prince Edward County to seek out galleries and meet the artists. The county attracts a few of Ontario’s finest artists who’ve chosen to stay right here. You’ll see the county of their work, and you might even turn into an artwork purchaser after visiting the galleries. See extra right here.
Art occurs in Prince Edward County. Galleries are in every single place, displaying work from native artists, from conventional to avant-garde. The Arts Trail, just like the Taste Trail, takes you on a curated tour of the galleries and introduces you to the artwork scene of the County.
Visit the Oeno Gallery
The Oeno Gallery is a significant artwork vacation spot in Prince Edward County and a major participant within the Canadian artwork world. One of the highlights of the Oeno Gallery is its sculpture backyard. Set amidst the vineyards of Huff Estates Winery, this outside house options large-scale sculptures in a peaceable pure setting. It’s a uncommon expertise to walk via these sculptures and ponder the artwork and the great thing about the environment.
Boat Tours and Fishing
If you need to take part in a extra enjoyable exercise on the water, then there are many boat excursions available. There is one thing spectacular about being out on that water simply because the sunrises in addition to when it units. There are quite a lot of fishing and angling charters out there if you wish to spend a peaceable morning fishing in Lake Ontario. Take a crusing journey to see the shoreline with Stay and Sail or West Lake Watersports has fishing boat and pontoon leases.
Bird Watching
Prince Edward County may be very widespread for fowl watching because of the sheer variety of fowl species you’ll find there. Some of these species embrace the Blue Jay, Song Sparrow, Red-winged Blackbird, Turkey Vulture, Red-breasted Merganser, American Goldfinch, Great Horned Owl, and the Sandhill Crane, simply to call a number of. If you’re an avid fowl watcher, then seize these binoculars and head out, you’re sure to see a number of fowl species you’ve by no means seen in actual life earlier than.
Macaulay Mountain Conservation Area
Macaulay Mountain Conservation Area is a nature lover’s dream; the Macaulay Mountain Conservation Area covers over 400 acres and has pure magnificence and historical past. Hikers can stroll on many trails, from simple to difficult. One of the highlights is Birdhouse City, which has over 100 birdhouses. With picturesque picnic spots and an abundance of wildlife, it’s a spot the place nature’s symphony performs uninterrupted.
LeVescounte Mounds
The LeVescounte Mounds are close to the decrease Trent River, and the mounds close to the south shore of Prince Edward County are considered historic burial grounds. Besides human bones, archaeologists have discovered copper pans and jewellery within the excavated websites.
Some individuals who have visited the location of those mounds have stated they felt fully nonetheless within the areas across the mounds. There are many locations to go to in Ontario, however this is without doubt one of the few the place you may rise up shut and private with historic mysteries.
What You Need to Know Before Visiting
Where is Prince Edward County?
Prince Edward County, which can also be recognized round right here as “The County,” – is a peninsula on the jap shores of Lake Ontario between Toronto and Montreal.
It is a few 2.5-hour drive from Toronto Pearson International Airport, 3 hours from Ottawa’s Macdonald-Cartier International Airport, and three.5 hours from the Montreal-Trudeau International Airport.
Why is Prince Edward County So Popular?
I’d describe Prince Edward County like an escape from town – it’s rural, it’s a small city, and it’s received a seashore in addition to a ton of eating places and wineries. Since it’s positioned between Toronto, Montreal, and Ottawa, Prince Edward County is a good weekend getaway for guests from these cities.
How do you get round Prince Edward County?
You will certainly want a automotive to get round Prince Edward County. The small cities are linked by nation roads that do have public transportation, however many locations exterior of the cities will not be. You may rent a taxi, however that might price you an arm and a leg.
If you’re doing a DIY vineyard tour, you may rent a personal automotive or bus for the day. There are additionally vineyard excursions that may take you in a personal automobile. Or you may be a part of a motorcycle tour and see the wineries by bike.
The Final Word
As you may see, there are many issues to do in Prince Edward County which is why this makes for an ideal day journey from Toronto. If you need to tour greater than a single winery, it is perhaps a good suggestion to spend the night time at a cute rental cottage. If you’ve gotten any feedback about this weblog put up, we’d love to listen to from you. And for those who’ve received feedback in your private favourite place within the county, please share them with us, and we’ll move them on to our readers.