From wine tours to mysterious lakes and burial grounds, a getaway to Prince Edward County is a wonderful weekend escape. Country homes and vineyards are nestled in lush greenery and surrounded by water on all sides. There are many things to do in Prince Edward County to please couples and families looking for a getaway to the country.
Things to do in Prince Edward County, Ontario
Travelers can reach Prince Edward County via the historic Loyalist Parkway from Toronto. The Loyalist Parkway was constructed after the American Revolution in the 18th century and today runs through Prince Edward County. As soon as you glide into the county you’ll discover there are a whole bunch of things to do in Prince Edward County.
Take A Wine Tour
Wine tours are certainly at the top of our list and should be on yours as well when visiting Prince Edward County. I remember a few years ago, all my wine friends were tripping over themselves and singing the praises of Italian wine and French wine but that’s all changed.
Canadian wine is actually getting top marks for some of the best wines in the world. Prince Edward County isn’t just any winery region; it’s home to almost 40 wineries that produce everything from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir to dessert wines.
Prince Edward County’s reputation as a wine destination is well-earned and true. It has the perfect microclimate (I learned that on a wine tour) and great soil which both combine for great conditions for cultivating wine. Beyond the bottles, the vineyards themselves are a feast for the eyes. Whether you’re a sommelier or just starting your wine journey, the County’s wineries will not disappoint.
In fact, Prince Edward County is recognized as one of three viticultural areas in Ontario by VQA Ontario Appellations of Origin. Who knew?
Some of Our Favourite Wineries
Having visited quite a few wineries in the county, we have some favorites. These are our recommendations for where you should try first. Sandbanks is a must. Then I would try Grange of Prince Edward Vineyards and then on to Huff Estates. That should get you started. You can check out our map of Prince Edward County Wineries above.
Prince Edward County Breweries
And while we’re on the subject of drinks, let’s not forget Prince Edward County breweries. In fact, almost 50% of the island grew barley for beer less than 100 years ago. Now, the breweries have gotten a bit fancy, so you’re not just chugging a pint on your vacation, but rather, you get to experience craft beer and food pairings. In the spirit of the Prince Edward County community, many of the pubs will offer you a beer-tasting flight from their brewery partners. That way, you get to taste the whole county in one place.
Craft brewing and ciders have also found a home in Prince Edward County. Since I can’t have gluten, beer is off the table, so I am now getting into ciders. The breweries and cideries invite you to taste a world of flavors, from crisp apple-based drinks to hoppy ales. Several offer tours so you can learn about the brewing process and what goes into every 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 best ways to explore Prince Edward County is to get on the roughly 50 km long Millenium Trail. The trail runs around the county, so there are many places you can get on and off the trail. You get a chance to see everything from wetlands to farms to wineries and pubs while being serenaded by an orchestra of Prince Edward County bird species. If quiet is one of the things you’re searching for, then you’ll find it on the Millennium Trail, too. You can enjoy pure tranquillity as turtles and toads quietly accompany you on your walk or bike ride around the winding paths of Prince Edward County.
The Millennium Trail starts in Carrying Place and ends in Picton
Lake on the Mountain
It’s a mystery for Ontario visitors and locals alike that Lake on the Mountain sits close to 60 meters above Lake Ontario but seems to have no direct water source. The most puzzling thing is that the lake has a year-round flow of freshwater, and geologists can’t explain where that freshwater comes from.
Prince Edward County has a lot of attractions, but this lake has to be one of its most mysterious. The Mohawks call it the Lake of the Gods, as it seems it is the Gods themselves that send that water up into this mountain lake. You’ll have to check it out for yourself and come up with your own theory.
Stroll Along Picton’s Main Street
Walking down Picton’s Main Street in Prince Edward County is a treat if you are into shopping, amazing restaurants, and art galleries. Picton’s Main Street is lined with 19th century buildings, it’s like stepping back in time. The architecture really is a storybook of its history.
Several art galleries on the Main Street feature local artists. From traditional to modern art, it reflects the thriving arts community in Prince Edward County.
If you are there at night, make sure to check out the iconic Regent Theatre, a historic Edwardian opera house that sits proudly on Main Street. It’s not just an architectural landmark but a cultural hub for film, live performances, and concerts. It is the perfect way to spend the evening.
Local Tip: One of the street’s best features is the food. From cozy cafes to upscale restaurants, there are a ton of options. Many of the establishments use local ingredients, so you’ll be tasting the county in every bite.
Apple Orchards in Picton
Picton is also the area you want to visit to get to the heart of apple orchard country. Picton is home to more than a half dozen orchards where a variety of apples are grown. Not only can you pick apples, but some orchards provide other activities, too. At Campbell’s Orchards, you can explore a maze, get wagon rides, and even pet farm animals at the petting zoo. Over at The Big Apple, you can nosh on cookies and other baked goods at their bakery and visit their candy store and gift store for some souvenirs.
Prince Edward County Lavender Farm
Lavender is known for its therapeutic qualities, such as helping with relaxation and sleep while countering fatigue and anxiety. You will probably smell Prince Edward County Lavender Farm before you see it. The farm, located in Hillier, grows many types of lavender for both medicinal and culinary uses. You can walk the purple fields and then shop for lavender essential oils, soaps, and creams, as well as lavender teas and chocolates. It is open daily from spring to around Christmas.
Bed and Breakfast Destination
If you want to get the full therapeutic value of being on a lavender farm, then you might want to spend the night at The Lavender Farm Bed and Breakfast. That night might give you the best sleep you’ve ever had. A visit to this place can help change your state of mind from negative to positive thanks to the positive qualities associated with the scent of lavender. You may even be able to check out their lavender festival if you go at the right time, you’ll have to contact them to find out more details on that.
Kinsip Distillery Maple Whiskey
Maple syrup is a gift from the gods, and when you add that to whiskey, you get maple whiskey, and it’s out of this world. Not many distilleries open their doors to the public, so you’ll be happy to know you can visit the Kinsip House of Fine Spirits for tastings.
They are famous for their maple syrup whiskey, but there’s lots to enjoy in their tasting room. You can try all sorts of locally made spirits like vodka and bitters, too. Once you’ve found your favorite, you can take a whole bottle home to share with those who didn’t get to come to Prince Edward County with you.
Schoolhouse 77
If you’ve ever read books like Anne of Green Gables (if you’re Canadian, you know exactly what I mean), then you’ve probably wondered what it would be like to go to school in a Canadian schoolhouse. Well, you can stop wondering and visit Schoolhouse 77 in Picton to get a feel for what students felt like in Canada a century ago. Schoolhouse 77 is a one-room schoolhouse that was built in 1875.
It’s been restored and is now a small market where you can buy farm produce, antiques, and local handmade products. If you’re a cyclist you’ll be happy to know you can find basic bike repair tools at the schoolhouse in case you have some trouble while you’re out biking the Millenium Trail.
Glass Studios
If you appreciate the beauty of glass art, then you’re going to want to visit the various glass artist workshops in Prince Edward County. Handmade glassworks are becoming more difficult to find these days, but the art is alive and thriving in the county. For those that love the intricacy of stained glass, a visit to Pete’s Stained Glass Studio in Milford is in order.
You can check out his gorgeous custom stained glass panel pieces. However, if glass jewelry and dishware are more your thing then Lala Land Glass Studio in Bloomfield might be worth a visit. If you’re a collector of blown glass, Armstrong Glassworks located in Wellington is worth checking out for its unique and colorful bowls, vases, and plates. Call ahead to find out when the artist will be at work so you can watch him blow the glass himself.
Sandbanks Provincial Park
Canada is known as the Great White North, and that’s why many visitors are surprised to learn that Canada has warm beaches. Some say the best Canadian beaches can be found in Prince Edward County and, more specifically, in Sandbanks Provincial Park on Lake Ontario, which is home to three of them. Sandbanks Outlet Beach is great for families to visit as it has shallow waters for the kiddoes to play in.
Sandbanks Provincial Park is a natural wonder, boasting some of the world’s largest freshwater dunes. The park is a haven for nature enthusiasts, with diverse flora and fauna. Birds, in particular, flock here, making it a bird-watcher’s paradise. Additionally, the park offers several activities like hiking, swimming, and picnicking, ensuring a day full of adventure and relaxation.
Head For The Beach
The beaches of Prince Edward County are not just stretches of sand; they are an invitation to revel in nature’s beauty. From family-friendly spots with gentle waves to secluded shores that promise serenity, there’s a beach for every visitor. Warm summer days see them buzzing with activity, from sandcastle building to beach volleyball. As the sun sets, they transform into tranquil landscapes, with the waves playing a gentle lullaby.
Dunes Day Beach at the park is gorgeous thanks to those dunes, something you don’t often see in the Canadian landscape. Just outside of Sandbanks Provincial Park is Wellington Beach, which is smaller than the other beaches and provides a more intimate experience. North Beach Provincial Park has its own sandy destinations. The area has paved trails and also a large area for people to picnic in. Regardless of which beach you choose, you’re going to find a calm atmosphere as the region attracts mostly families and couples.
Visit the Wellington Farmers’ Market
To get a real taste of Prince Edward County, you’re going to want to check out the Wellington Farmers’ Market. The market provides you with a single place from which you can check out goods from all over the island, including wines from any vineyard that has partnered with the market and the local produce. You’ll find everything from baked goods from artisan shops to hand-crafted jewelry and antiques.
Prince Edward County Arts Trail
Prince Edward County is an artist’s paradise. Look for the blue Arts Trail signs around Prince Edward County to find galleries and meet the artists. The county attracts some of Ontario’s best artists who have chosen to live here. You’ll see the county in their work, and you may even become an art buyer after visiting the galleries. See more here.
Art happens in Prince Edward County. Galleries are everywhere, showing work from local artists, from traditional to avant-garde. The Arts Trail, like the Taste Trail, takes you on a curated tour of the galleries and introduces you to the art scene of the County.
Visit the Oeno Gallery
The Oeno Gallery is a major art destination in Prince Edward County and a significant player in the Canadian art world. One of the highlights of the Oeno Gallery is its sculpture garden. Set amidst the vineyards of Huff Estates Winery, this outdoor space features large-scale sculptures in a peaceful natural setting. It’s a rare experience to stroll through these sculptures and contemplate the art and the beauty of the surroundings.
Boat Tours and Fishing
If you want to participate in a more relaxing activity on the water, then there are plenty of boat tours to be had. There is something spectacular about being out on that water just as the sunrises as well as when it sets. There are a variety of fishing and angling charters available if you want to spend a peaceful morning fishing in Lake Ontario. Take a sailing adventure to see the coastline with Stay and Sail or West Lake Watersports has fishing boat and pontoon rentals.
Bird Watching
Prince Edward County is very popular for bird watching due to the sheer number of bird species you can find there. Some of those species include the Blue Jay, Song Sparrow, Red-winged Blackbird, Turkey Vulture, Red-breasted Merganser, American Goldfinch, Great Horned Owl, and the Sandhill Crane, just to name a few. If you’re an avid bird watcher, then grab those binoculars and head out, you’re bound to see a few bird species you’ve never seen in real life before.
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 natural beauty and history. Hikers can walk on many trails, from easy to challenging. One of the highlights is Birdhouse City, which has over 100 birdhouses. With picturesque picnic spots and an abundance of wildlife, it’s a place where nature’s symphony plays uninterrupted.
LeVescounte Mounds
The LeVescounte Mounds are near the lower Trent River, and the mounds near the south shore of Prince Edward County are thought to be ancient burial grounds. Besides human bones, archaeologists have found copper pans and jewelry in the excavated sites.
Some people who have visited the site of these mounds have said they felt completely still in the areas around the mounds. There are many places to visit in Ontario, but this is one of the few where you can get up close and personal with ancient mysteries.
What You Need to Know Before Visiting
Where is Prince Edward County?
Prince Edward County, which is also known around here as “The County,” – is a peninsula on the eastern shores of Lake Ontario between Toronto and Montreal.
It is about a 2.5-hour drive from Toronto Pearson International Airport, 3 hours from Ottawa’s Macdonald-Cartier International Airport, and 3.5 hours from the Montreal-Trudeau International Airport.
Why is Prince Edward County So Popular?
I would describe Prince Edward County like an escape from the city – it’s rural, it’s a small town, and it’s got a beach as well as a ton of restaurants and wineries. Since it’s located between Toronto, Montreal, and Ottawa, Prince Edward County is a great weekend getaway for visitors from those cities.
How do you get around Prince Edward County?
You will definitely need a car to get around Prince Edward County. The small towns are connected by country roads that do have public transportation, but many places outside of the towns are not. You could hire a taxi, but that could cost you an arm and a leg.
If you’re doing a DIY winery tour, you could hire a private car or bus for the day. There are also winery tours that will take you in a private vehicle. Or you could join a bike tour and see the wineries by bike.
The Final Word
As you can see, there are plenty of things to do in Prince Edward County which is why this makes for a perfect day trip from Toronto. If you want to tour more than a single vineyard, it might be a good idea to spend the night at a cute rental cottage. If you have any comments about this blog post, we would love to hear from you. And if you’ve got comments on your personal favorite place in the county, please share them with us, and we’ll pass them on to our readers.