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 numerous 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 through the historic Loyalist Parkway from Toronto. The Loyalist Parkway was constructed after the American Revolution within the 18th century and as we speak 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 prime of our record and ought to be on yours as nicely when visiting Prince Edward County. I keep in mind just a few years in the past, all my wine mates 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 prime marks for among the finest wines on this planet. Prince Edward County isn’t simply any vineyard area; it’s house to virtually 40 wineries that produce every little 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 right microclimate (I discovered that on a wine tour) and nice soil which each mix for excellent 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 truth, Prince Edward County is acknowledged as one among three viticultural areas in Ontario by VQA Ontario Appellations of Origin. Who knew?
A few of Our Favorite Wineries
Having visited fairly just a few wineries within the county, we’ve got some favorites. These are our suggestions for the place it is best 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 reference to drinks, let’s not overlook 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. Within the spirit of the Prince Edward County group, most of the pubs will give you a beer-tasting flight from their brewery companions. That means, 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 possibly can be taught 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 finest methods to discover Prince Edward County is to get on the roughly 50 km lengthy Millenium Path. The path runs across the county, so there are a lot of locations you may get on and off the path. You get an opportunity to see every little thing from wetlands to farms to wineries and pubs whereas being serenaded by an orchestra of Prince Edward County hen species. If quiet is without doubt one of the stuff you’re trying to find, then you definately’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 journey 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 haven’t any direct water supply. Essentially 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 sights, however this lake needs to be one among 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 must test it out for your self and give you your individual principle.
Stroll Alongside Picton’s Major Avenue
Strolling down Picton’s Major Avenue in Prince Edward County is a deal with in case you are into purchasing, 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.
In case you are 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 concert events. It’s the excellent solution to spend the night.
Native Tip: One of many avenue’s finest options is the meals. From cozy cafes to upscale eating places, there are a ton of choices. Lots of the institutions use native substances, so that you’ll be tasting the county in each chew.
Apple Orchards in Picton
Picton can be the world you wish to go to to get to the guts 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 choose apples, however some orchards present different actions, too. At Campbell’s Orchards, you possibly can discover a maze, get wagon rides, and even pet livestock on the petting zoo. Over at The Large Apple, you possibly can 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 thought for its therapeutic qualities, reminiscent of serving to with leisure and sleep whereas countering fatigue and anxiousness. You’ll in all probability scent Prince Edward County Lavender Farm earlier than you see it. The farm, situated in Hillier, grows many varieties 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 sweets. It’s open day by day from spring to round Christmas.
Mattress and Breakfast Vacation spot
If you wish to get the complete therapeutic worth of being on a lavender farm, then you definately may wish to spend the evening at The Lavender Farm Mattress and Breakfast. That evening may provide the finest sleep you’ve ever had. A go to to this place will help change your frame of mind from adverse to constructive because of the constructive qualities related to the scent of lavender. It’s possible you’ll even be capable of take a look at their lavender competition should you go on the proper time, you’ll must contact them to search out out extra particulars on that.
Kinsip Distillery Maple Whiskey
Maple syrup is a present from the gods, and once 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 joyful to know you possibly can go to the Kinsip Home of Positive 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 kinds of regionally made spirits like vodka and bitters, too. When you’ve discovered your favourite, you possibly can take a complete bottle house to share with those that didn’t get to return to Prince Edward County with you.
Schoolhouse 77
In the event you’ve ever learn books like Anne of Inexperienced Gables (should you’re Canadian, you already know precisely what I imply), then you definately’ve in all probability questioned what it might be wish to go to highschool in a Canadian schoolhouse. Nicely, you possibly can 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 purchase farm produce, antiques, and native handmade merchandise. In the event you’re a bicycle owner you’ll be joyful to know you’ll find fundamental bike restore instruments on the schoolhouse in case you could have some hassle whilst you’re out biking the Millenium Path.
Glass Studios
In the event you recognize the great 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 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. Nevertheless, if glass jewellery and dishware are extra your factor then Lala Land Glass Studio in Bloomfield is perhaps value a go to. In the event you’re a collector of blown glass, Armstrong Glassworks situated in Wellington is value testing for its distinctive and colourful bowls, vases, and plates. Name forward to search out out when the artist might be at work so you possibly can watch him blow the glass himself.
Sandbanks Provincial Park
Canada is named the Nice White North, and that’s why many guests are stunned to be taught that Canada has heat seashores. Some say the very best Canadian seashores could 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 Seashore 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 fans, with various natural world. Birds, particularly, 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 Seashore
The seashores of Prince Edward County are usually not simply stretches of sand; they’re an invite to enjoy nature’s magnificence. From family-friendly spots with mild 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 enjoying a mild lullaby.
Dunes Day Seashore on the park is beautiful because of these dunes, one thing you don’t usually see within the Canadian panorama. Simply exterior of Sandbanks Provincial Park is Wellington Seashore, which is smaller than the opposite seashores and offers a extra intimate expertise. North Seashore Provincial Park has its personal sandy locations. The realm 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 offers 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 little thing 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 finest artists who’ve chosen to stay right here. You’ll see the county of their work, and chances are you’ll even develop into an artwork purchaser after visiting the galleries. See extra right here.
Artwork occurs in Prince Edward County. Galleries are all over the place, exhibiting 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 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 great 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 number of fishing and angling charters accessible if you wish to spend a peaceable morning fishing in Lake Ontario. Take a crusing journey to see the shoreline with Keep and Sail or West Lake Watersports has fishing boat and pontoon leases.
Hen Watching
Prince Edward County may be very well-liked for hen watching because of the sheer variety of hen species you’ll find there. A few of these species embody the Blue Jay, Track Sparrow, Purple-winged Blackbird, Turkey Vulture, Purple-breasted Merganser, American Goldfinch, Nice Horned Owl, and the Sandhill Crane, simply to call just a few. In the event you’re an avid hen watcher, then seize these binoculars and head out, you’re certain to see just a few hen 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 considered historic burial grounds. In addition to human bones, archaeologists have discovered copper pans and jewellery within the excavated websites.
Some individuals who have visited the location of those mounds have mentioned they felt utterly nonetheless within the areas across the mounds. There are numerous locations to go to in Ontario, however this is without doubt one of the few the place you possibly can stand up shut and private with historic mysteries.
What You Must Know Earlier than Visiting
The place is Prince Edward County?
Prince Edward County, which can be recognized round right here as “The County,” – is a peninsula on the japanese shores of Lake Ontario between Toronto and Montreal.
It’s a couple of 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 Standard?
I might describe Prince Edward County like an escape from the town – it’s rural, it’s a small city, and it’s acquired 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 superb weekend getaway for guests from these cities.
How do you get round Prince Edward County?
You’ll positively want a automobile to get round Prince Edward County. The small cities are related by nation roads that do have public transportation, however many locations exterior of the cities are usually not. You may rent a taxi, however that might price you an arm and a leg.
In the event you’re doing a DIY vineyard tour, you would rent a non-public automobile or bus for the day. There are additionally vineyard excursions that can take you in a non-public automobile. Or you would be part of a motorcycle tour and see the wineries by bike.
The Closing Phrase
As you possibly can 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. You probably have any feedback about this weblog publish, we might love to listen to from you. And should you’ve acquired feedback in your private favourite place within the county, please share them with us, and we’ll cross them on to our readers.