From wine excursions to mysterious lakes and burial grounds, a getaway to Prince Edward County is a superb 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 searching for a getaway to the nation.
Things to do in Prince Edward County, Ontario
Travelers can attain Prince Edward County by way of the historic Loyalist Parkway from Toronto. The Loyalist Parkway was constructed after the American Revolution within the 18th century and at the moment runs via Prince Edward County. As quickly as you glide into the county you’ll uncover there are a complete bunch of issues to do in Prince Edward County.
Take A Wine Tour
Wine excursions are actually on the high of our checklist and must be on yours as properly when visiting Prince Edward County. I bear in mind just a few years in the past, all my wine associates have 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 number of the greatest wines on this planet. Prince Edward County isn’t simply any vineyard area; it’s house to virtually 40 wineries that produce every thing from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir to dessert wines.
Prince Edward County’s popularity as a wine vacation spot is well-earned and true. It has the proper microclimate (I discovered that on a wine tour) and nice soil which each mix for excellent circumstances 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 won’t disappoint.
In truth, Prince Edward County is acknowledged as certainly one of three viticultural areas in Ontario by VQA Ontario Appellations of Origin. Who knew?
Some of Our Favourite Wineries
Having visited fairly just a few wineries within the county, we have now some favorites. These are our suggestions for the place it is 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 take a look at our map of Prince Edward County Wineries above.
Prince Edward County Breweries
And whereas we’re with reference to drinks, let’s not neglect Prince Edward County breweries. In truth, 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 quite, you get to expertise craft beer and meals pairings. In the spirit of the Prince Edward County neighborhood, most 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’ll be able to study in regards to 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 one of the 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 may get on and off the path. You get an opportunity to see every thing from wetlands to farms to wineries and pubs whereas being serenaded by an orchestra of Prince Edward County fowl species. If quiet is likely one of the belongings you’re looking for, then you definately’ll discover it on the Millennium Trail, too. You can get pleasure from pure tranquillity as turtles and toads quietly accompany you in your stroll or bike experience 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 haven’t any direct water supply. The most puzzling factor is that the lake has a year-round move of freshwater, and geologists can’t clarify the place that freshwater comes from.
Prince Edward County has lots of sights, however this lake needs to be certainly 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 should test it out for your self and provide you with your individual concept.
Stroll Along Picton’s Main Street
Walking down Picton’s Main Street in Prince Edward County is a deal with if you’re into procuring, wonderful 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 might be there at evening, be certain to take a look at the enduring 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 live shows. It is the proper approach to spend the night.
Local Tip: One of the road’s greatest 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 be the realm you wish 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’ll be able to discover a maze, get wagon rides, and even pet livestock on the petting zoo. Over at The Big Apple, you’ll be able to nosh on cookies and different baked items at their bakery and go to their sweet retailer and present retailer for some souvenirs.
Prince Edward County Lavender Farm
Lavender is understood for its therapeutic qualities, corresponding to serving to with leisure and sleep whereas countering fatigue and nervousness. You will in all probability scent Prince Edward County Lavender Farm earlier than you see it. The farm, positioned in Hillier, grows many varieties 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 day by day from spring to round Christmas.
Bed and Breakfast Destination
If you wish to get the total therapeutic worth of being on a lavender farm, then you definately would possibly wish to spend the evening at The Lavender Farm Bed and Breakfast. That evening would possibly provide the greatest sleep you’ve ever had. A go to to this place can assist change your mind-set from adverse to constructive due to the constructive qualities related to the scent of lavender. You might even be capable of take a look at their lavender competition in the event you go on the proper time, you’ll should 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 blissful to know you’ll be able to 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 get pleasure from 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’ll be able to take a complete 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 (in the event you’re Canadian, you recognize precisely what I imply), then you definately’ve in all probability puzzled what it will be prefer to go to high school in a Canadian schoolhouse. Well, you’ll be able to 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 inbuilt 1875.
It’s been restored and is now a small market the place you should purchase farm produce, antiques, and native handmade merchandise. If you’re a bicycle owner you’ll be blissful to know you could find fundamental bike restore instruments on the schoolhouse in case you’ve got some hassle whilst you’re out biking the Millenium Trail.
Glass Studios
If you recognize the fantastic thing about glass artwork, then you definately’re going to wish to go to the assorted 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 those who love the intricacy of stained glass, a go to to Pete’s Stained Glass Studio in Milford is so as.
You can take a look at 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 might be at work so you’ll be able to watch him blow the glass himself.
Sandbanks Provincial Park
Canada is called the Great White North, and that’s why many guests are stunned to study that Canada has heat seashores. Some say one of the best Canadian seashores may 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 surprise, boasting a number of the world’s largest freshwater dunes. The park is a haven for nature lovers, with various wildlife. Birds, particularly, flock right here, making it a bird-watcher’s paradise. Additionally, the park presents a number of actions like mountaineering, swimming, and picnicking, guaranteeing a day filled 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 light waves to secluded shores that promise serenity, there’s a seashore for each customer. Warm summer season 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 delicate 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 outdoors of Sandbanks Provincial Park is Wellington Beach, which is smaller than the opposite seashores and supplies a extra intimate expertise. North Beach Provincial Park has its personal sandy locations. The space has paved trails and likewise a big space for folks to picnic in. Regardless of which seashore you select, you’re going to discover a calm environment because the area attracts principally households and {couples}.
Visit the Wellington Farmers’ Market
To get an actual style of Prince Edward County, you’re going to wish to take a look at the Wellington Farmers’ Market. The market supplies you with a single place from which you’ll be able to take a look at 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 thing from baked items from artisan retailers 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 greatest artists who’ve chosen to stay right here. You’ll see the county of their work, and it’s possible you’ll even grow to be an artwork purchaser after visiting the galleries. See extra right here.
Art occurs in Prince Edward County. Galleries are in all places, 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 serious artwork vacation spot in Prince Edward County and a big 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 out of doors area 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 fantastic thing about the environment.
Boat Tours and Fishing
If you wish to take part in a extra stress-free 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 obtainable 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 well-liked for fowl watching as a result of sheer variety of fowl species you could 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 just a few. If you’re an avid fowl watcher, then seize these binoculars and head out, you’re certain to see just a few 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 utterly nonetheless within the areas across the mounds. There are many locations to go to in Ontario, however this is likely one of the few the place you’ll be able to 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 be identified round right here as “The County,” – is a peninsula on the jap shores of Lake Ontario between Toronto and Montreal.
It is a couple of 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 the 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 related by nation roads that do have public transportation, however many locations outdoors of the cities will not be. You may rent a taxi, however that would price you an arm and a leg.
If you’re doing a DIY vineyard tour, you might rent a personal automotive or bus for the day. There are additionally vineyard excursions that can take you in a personal automobile. Or you might be a part of a motorcycle tour and see the wineries by bike.
The Final Word
As you’ll be able to 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 wish to tour greater than a single winery, it is perhaps a good suggestion to spend the evening at a cute rental cottage. If you’ve got any feedback about this weblog put up, we might love to listen to from you. And in the event you’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.