The Ultimate Guide To Prince Edward County, Ontario

From wine excursions to mysterious lakes and burial grounds, a getaway to Prince Edward County is an excellent weekend escape. Nation houses and vineyards are nestled in lush greenery and surrounded by water on all sides. There are various issues to do in Prince Edward County to please {couples} and households searching for a getaway to the nation.

Issues to do in Prince Edward County, Ontario

Vacationers 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 as we speak runs by 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 actually on the high of our checklist and must be on yours as effectively when visiting Prince Edward County. I keep in mind a couple of years in the past, all my wine pals 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 among the greatest wines on the planet. Prince Edward County isn’t simply any vineyard area; it’s residence to nearly 40 wineries that produce all the things from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir to dessert wines.

Prince Edward County’s status 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 nice situations for cultivating wine. Past the bottles, the vineyards themselves are a feast for the eyes. Whether or not you’re a sommelier or simply beginning your wine journey, the County’s wineries won’t disappoint.

In reality, Prince Edward County is acknowledged as one in all three viticultural areas in Ontario by VQA Ontario Appellations of Origin. Who knew?

A few of Our Favorite Wineries

Having visited fairly a couple of wineries within the county, we’ve got some favorites. These are our suggestions for the place you need to attempt first. Sandbanks is a should. Then I might attempt Grange of Prince Edward Vineyards after which on to Huff Estates. That ought to get you began. You’ll be able to take a look at 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, nearly 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. Within the spirit of the Prince Edward County group, 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 moving into ciders. The breweries and cideries invite you to style a world of flavors, from crisp apple-based drinks to hoppy ales. A number of provide excursions so you’ll be able to study in regards to the brewing course of and what goes into each glass. A few of our favorites are Lake on the Mountain Brewing Firm, Parsons Brewing Firm, and Prince Eddy’s Brewing.

Millennium Path Adventures and Wildlife

Among 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 various locations you may get on and off the path. You get an opportunity to see all the things from wetlands to farms to wineries and pubs whereas being serenaded by an orchestra of Prince Edward County chicken species. If quiet is likely one of the stuff you’re trying to find, then you definitely’ll discover it on the Millennium Path, too. You’ll be able to 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 Path 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. Essentially the most puzzling factor is that the lake has a year-round circulate of freshwater, and geologists can’t clarify the place that freshwater comes from.

Prince Edward County has loads of sights, however this lake must be one in all 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 provide you with your personal idea.

Stroll Alongside Picton’s Major Avenue

Strolling down Picton’s Major Avenue in Prince Edward County is a deal with if you’re into procuring, wonderful eating places, and artwork galleries. Picton’s Major Avenue is lined with nineteenth century buildings, it’s like stepping again in time. The structure actually is a storybook of its historical past.

A number of artwork galleries on the Major Avenue characteristic native artists. From conventional to fashionable artwork, it displays the thriving arts group in Prince Edward County.

If you’re there at evening, be sure to take a look at the enduring Regent Theatre, a historic Edwardian opera home that sits proudly on Major Avenue. It’s not simply an architectural landmark however a cultural hub for movie, stay performances, and live shows. It’s the good method to spend the night.

Native Tip: One of many road’s greatest options is the meals. From cozy cafes to upscale eating places, there are a ton of choices. Most of the institutions use native components, so that you’ll be tasting the county in each chew.

Apple Orchards in Picton

Picton can also be the realm you wish to go to to get to the guts of apple orchard nation. Picton is residence to greater than a half dozen orchards the place quite a lot of apples are grown. Not solely are you able to choose 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 Large Apple, you’ll be able to 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 thought for its therapeutic qualities, resembling serving to with leisure and sleep whereas countering fatigue and anxiousness. You’ll in all probability odor Prince Edward County Lavender Farm earlier than you see it. The farm, situated in Hillier, grows many forms of lavender for each medicinal and culinary makes use of. You’ll be able to stroll the purple fields after which store for lavender important oils, soaps, and lotions, in addition to lavender teas and goodies. It’s open each day from spring to round Christmas.

Mattress and Breakfast Vacation spot

If you wish to get the total therapeutic worth of being on a lavender farm, then you definitely would possibly wish to spend the evening at The Lavender Farm Mattress and Breakfast. That evening would possibly provide the greatest sleep you’ve ever had. A go to to this place can assist change your way of thinking from unfavourable to constructive because of the constructive qualities related to the scent of lavender. You could even be capable to take a look at their lavender competition if you happen to go on the proper time, you’ll need to contact them to search out out extra particulars on that.

Kinsip Distillery Maple Whiskey

Maple syrup is a present from the gods, and while 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 completely happy to know you’ll be able to go to the Kinsip Home of High quality Spirits for tastings.

They’re well-known for his or her maple syrup whiskey, however there’s tons to take pleasure in of their tasting room. You’ll be able to attempt all types of regionally made spirits like vodka and bitters, too. When you’ve discovered your favourite, you’ll be able to take an entire bottle residence to share with those that didn’t get to come back to Prince Edward County with you.

Schoolhouse 77

Should you’ve ever learn books like Anne of Inexperienced Gables (if you happen to’re Canadian, precisely what I imply), then you definitely’ve in all probability questioned what it could be prefer to go to high school in a Canadian schoolhouse. Properly, 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. Should you’re a bicycle owner you’ll be completely happy to know yow will discover primary bike restore instruments on the schoolhouse in case you will have some bother when you’re out biking the Millenium Path.

Glass Studios

Should you admire the fantastic thing about glass artwork, then you definitely’re going to wish to go to the varied glass artist workshops in Prince Edward County. Handmade glassworks have gotten tougher to search out as of late, 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’ll be able to take a look at his beautiful customized stained glass panel items. Nonetheless, if glass jewellery and dishware are extra your factor then Lala Land Glass Studio in Bloomfield is perhaps value a go to. Should you’re a collector of blown glass, Armstrong Glassworks situated in Wellington is value trying out for its distinctive and colourful bowls, vases, and plates. Name forward to search 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 named the Nice White North, and that’s why many guests are shocked to study that Canada has heat seashores. Some say one of the best Canadian seashores might be present in Prince Edward County and, extra particularly, in Sandbanks Provincial Park on Lake Ontario, which is residence to 3 of them. Sandbanks Outlet Seaside 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 among the world’s largest freshwater dunes. The park is a haven for nature fanatics, with numerous natural world. Birds, specifically, flock right here, making it a bird-watcher’s paradise. Moreover, the park gives a number of actions like climbing, swimming, and picnicking, making certain a day filled with journey and leisure.

Head For The Seaside

The seashores of Prince Edward County should not 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 seaside for each customer. Heat summer season days see them buzzing with exercise, from sandcastle constructing to seaside volleyball. Because the solar units, they rework into tranquil landscapes, with the waves taking part in a mild lullaby.

Dunes Day Seaside on the park is beautiful because of these dunes, one thing you don’t usually see within the Canadian panorama. Simply outdoors of Sandbanks Provincial Park is Wellington Seaside, which is smaller than the opposite seashores and gives a extra intimate expertise. North Seaside Provincial Park has its personal sandy locations. The world has paved trails and in addition a big space for individuals to picnic in. No matter which seaside you select, you’re going to discover a calm environment because the area attracts largely households and {couples}.

Go to 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 gives you with a single place from which you’ll 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 all the things from baked items from artisan retailers to hand-crafted jewellery and antiques.

Prince Edward County Arts Path

Prince Edward County is an artist’s paradise. Search for the blue Arts Path indicators round Prince Edward County to search 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 you could even turn out to be an artwork purchaser after visiting the galleries. See more here.

Artwork occurs in Prince Edward County. Galleries are all over the place, displaying work from native artists, from conventional to avant-garde. The Arts Path, just like the Style Path, takes you on a curated tour of the galleries and introduces you to the artwork scene of the County.

Go to 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 many highlights of the Oeno Gallery is its sculpture backyard. Set amidst the vineyards of Huff Estates Vineyard, this outside house options large-scale sculptures in a peaceable pure setting. It’s a uncommon expertise to walk by these sculptures and ponder the artwork and the fantastic thing about the environment.

Boat Excursions and Fishing

If you wish to take part in a extra enjoyable exercise on the water, then there are many boat excursions available. There’s something spectacular about being out on that water simply because the sunrises in addition to when it units.  There are a selection 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.

Fowl Watching

Prince Edward County may be very standard for chicken watching because of the sheer variety of chicken species yow will discover there. A few of these species embody the Blue Jay, Tune Sparrow, Crimson-winged Blackbird, Turkey Vulture, Crimson-breasted Merganser, American Goldfinch, Nice Horned Owl, and the Sandhill Crane, simply to call a couple of. Should you’re an avid chicken watcher, then seize these binoculars and head out, you’re certain to see a couple of chicken species you’ve by no means seen in actual life earlier than. 

Macaulay Mountain Conservation Space

Macaulay Mountain Conservation Space is a nature lover’s dream; the Macaulay Mountain Conservation Space covers over 400 acres and has pure magnificence and historical past. Hikers can stroll on many trails, from simple to difficult. One of many highlights is Birdhouse Metropolis, 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 regarded as historic burial grounds. Moreover 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 various 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 Have to Know Earlier than Visiting

The place 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’s a few 2.5-hour drive from Toronto Pearson Worldwide Airport, 3 hours from Ottawa’s Macdonald-Cartier Worldwide Airport, and three.5 hours from the Montreal-Trudeau Worldwide Airport.

Why is Prince Edward County So Well-liked?

I might describe Prince Edward County like an escape from the town – it’s rural, it’s a small city, and it’s received a seaside in addition to a ton of eating places and wineries. Because it’s situated 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’ll positively 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 should not. You might rent a taxi, however that would price you an arm and a leg.

Should you’re doing a DIY vineyard tour, you possibly can rent a non-public automotive or bus for the day. There are additionally vineyard excursions that may take you in a non-public automobile. Or you possibly can be part of a motorbike tour and see the wineries by bike.

The Closing Phrase

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 trip 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 in case you have any feedback about this weblog put up, we’d love to listen to from you. And if you happen to’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.