Summer’s in full swing, but you’re still looking for THE destination for your next local vacation? Just a 4-hour drive from Montreal, nestled along the shores of Lake Ontario, Prince Edward County is a region as sublime as it’s varied that will allow you to make plenty of foodie discoveries as well as relax on idyllic beaches. To help you plan your own magical stay, check out our favorites activities and hidden gems in PEC.
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
Picton
Filled with unique boutiques and cozy restaurants, Picton’s gorgeous town has a je ne sais quoi that reminds us of Gilmore Girls’s Stars Hollow. Among its many foodie spots that are worth the detour, you can’t miss Slickers, where you’ll taste the best ice cream in the region (especially Key Lime Pie and Campfire), nor 555 Brewery Co to enjoy a delicious wood-fired pizza on their pretty terrace.
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
For an elegant dinner showcasing Spanish flavors, we recommend grabbing a bite at Bocado, or at The County Canteen for a colorful and affordable menu. Then, finish the evening at Russ & Co to have a refined cocktail in a very stylish setting!
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
For a good coffee, stop at Lily’s, the perfect treat to then wander the bookstore next door. If you want to spend the night in Picton or stay longer, the comfort of the Speakeasy Suites is ideal if you’re looking for a large, fully equipped and very cozy Airbnb with a Gatsby atmosphere!
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
Sandbanks
It was our first time in Prince Edward County and by traveling in low season, we were able to fully take advantage of Sandbanks Provincial Park without heavy crowds! However, summer is also a great time to enjoy sunny warm days at the water’s edge. Sandbanks is full of superb beaches, all with their own particularities, so here’s our little guide to help you find your way around and choose the one that best suits your style:
- Lakeshore Beach, our favorite, the water is clearer and during our visit, the atmosphere was calmer. Perfect for a picnic or a quiet read to the sound of the waves, there’s also a designated area for dogs.
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
- Dunes Beach to feel like you’re on a desert island! Very beautiful, but a little less comfortable since it’s on a slope.
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
- Outlet Beach, much larger than the other ones. Perfect for large groups and families, it’s located near Cedar Trail if you want to have a walk in nature.
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
Prince Edward County’s best vineyards and cider houses
A stay in Prince Edward County wouldn’t be complete without a trip to its famous vineyards and cider houses. We have therefore grouped together our favorite spots for you, according to the type of wines or ciders that can be found there and their particularities:
- For bubbly and champagne lovers, Hinterland is the place to stop! You can try their delicious sparkling wines using 3 tasting methods: traditional, charmat and ancestral (our favorite)! In addition to their stunning interior, their patio is sublime and offers a great view on the vines and the farmhouse in the back.
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
- The County Cider Company is an amazing place to visit if you want to discover the best ciders in the region! Their tasting formula is very complete and super affordable, for only $16 you can taste almost all of their creations. We really fell in love with their Blackberry + Peach cider, a must to try during your visit (and to take home, it’s divine)! Their team is super welcoming and their decor is very charming with the apple trees in bloom and the view on the lake. In addition to their original ciders, their restaurant also serves excellent wood-fired pizzas if you have a little craving!
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
- For a wide variety of wines that are both refined and versatile, stop by Sandbanks Winery. Whether you choose indoor or outdoor tasting, we recommend their Piquette and their Summer Apple Wine, two perfect options for summer happy hours!
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
- For world-class wines created in harmony with European traditions and sustainable practices, we also suggest a visit to Closson Chase, one of the region’s pioneers.
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
Other idyllic places to remember for your stay in Prince Edward County
- Drake Devonshire’s gourmet restaurant and terrace offering breathtaking views of Lake Ontario. With its menu highlighting local products, its creative cocktail menu, its festive atmosphere and its impeccable service, the Drake Devonshire will undoubtedly charm you.
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
- The June Motel to stay in a stylish little oasis combining vintage design and a boho atmosphere.
- Wander The Resort to treat yourself with a luxury stay in a high-end establishment focused on well-being (and to feel like you’re in a seaside resort)
From its crystal-clear beaches to its renowned vineyards along the wine trail, Prince Edward County is an epicurean destination definitely worth adding to your summer bucket list! Whether you want to relax on the warm sand, explore the wineries landscapes or soak up the peaceful atmosphere of PEC’s bucolic towns, we hope our recommendations will help you create a dreamy itinerary for an unforgettable getaway to this Ontario‘s gem!
Have a great holiday!
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