This post may contain affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item or service, I will receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own.
Getting to Prince Edward County
Prince Edward County is situated between Toronto and Ottawa. If coming from further away, fly into Toronto or Ottawa and rent a car to drive into the County.
The Via Rail Train offers train options into Belleville, but it’s difficult to get from Belleville into the County without a car.
Coming from Toronto: Drive east along the 401 and exit County Rd 40 in Quinte West. Take exit 522 from ON-401 E
Coming from Ottawa: Drive west along the 401 and exit 566 from ON-401 W
Where To Stay in Prince Edward County
The Drake Devonshire
Located in the heart of Wellington, the Drake Devonshire (and their recent extension, the Drake Motor Inn) offers guests a retro vibe and waterfront access.
The June Motel
As showcased on the Netflix’s show, Motel Makeover, owners April Brown and Sarah Sklash used their instincts and design prowess to create a dream worthy motel. Located close to Picton, this motel is close to the largest town in the county. Perfect for a girls weekend away (you won’t regret all the Instagram & Tiktok you’ll be able to create at this aesthetic locale).
Wander The Resort
This Nordic designed luxury resort recently opened in Wellington and is booked all the way through 2022. Blending simplistic and minimalistic Nordic design with Canadian cabin vibes, the allure of Wander is the immediate calming effect the resort has on you.
Lakeside Motel
Situated on Lake Ontario in Wellington, the Lakeside Motel offers rooms and bungalows to meet your needs. The property includes a pool, lake access, and a patio bar with mixed drinks and food. The Hothouse Sauna is available for guests onsite for booking. Check their website for updated packages to maximize your stay.
The Royal Picton
Dating back to 1879, this hotel has recently opened after a full restoration from a local family. The hotel is located on Picton Main Street, which allows for easy access to many of the county’s attractions.
If you are staying elsewhere, I’d recommend a pit stop at the Royal Picton Hotel Bar, and an order of oysters never disappoints.
Airbnb
There is a range of budget and luxury Airbnbs in Prince Edward County. The most popular weeks to visit are July and August so make sure to plan early! When booking, I’d recommend staying in Wellington or Picton to maximize your proximity to wineries and other activities.
Where To Eat in Prince Edward County
Flame & Smith
This restaurant focuses on wood-fired dishes with a sustainability lens. The menu is updated with the seasons. If the burrata dish is available, I’d recommend it as a must-order.
It is recommended that you make a reservation, as this restaurant is extremely popular and usually doesn’t have space for walk ins.
La Condesa
No reservations so go early and put your name on the list. Luckily there are a couple bars close by that you can pass the time.
The Royal Picton Bar
Located in the newly renovated Royal Picton Hotel, stop by the hotel bar where you’ll be greeted by friendly staff. My recommendation is that you sit up at the bar, and order some small plates and a cocktail from the front hotel lobby bar.
East & Main
Located at East and Main Street in Wellington, this restaurant has been a staple in town for 14 years. Using local ingredients, the kitchen knows how to put a dish together. The special above is coffee and cocoa rubbed beef ribs that were smoked for 4 hours and then low cooked for another 4 hours.
Quatro Amici Pasta Bar
Located as a pop-up at the Old Third Winery, the authentically homemade pasta is served on paper plates, not taking away from the fragrant & delicious dishes. I dream about these pasta dishes every year and cannot wait to eat them again every summer.
Midtown Brewing Co
Featuring a taproom, restaurant and retail store, as well as The Shop at Midtown, Midtown sells fresh produce and other items from local farms and producers. Enjoy a fresh pint and some delicious, elevated pub food before or after hitting up the wineries.
Amanda’s Recommended Winery Tour
Check out the following wineries (there are over 35 wineries in the county so these are just my favourites):
4. Grange of Prince Edward Vineyard
6. Sugarbush Vineyards & Winery
If you are looking to hire a winery driver or tour operator, check out:
Breweries & Distilleries
Kinsip Distillery
In the heart of Prince Edward County, Kinsip House of Fine Spirits is a farm-based, grain-to-glass distillery. Their products are fermented, distilled, and aged onsite with care.
Stillus Distillery
The newest distillery in PEC, Stillus focuses on small-batch vodka and whisky. Their products are available onsite at the store and in the tasting room where they also offer small bites.
Prince Eddy’s Brewing
Beer, corn hole, and beach volleyball are all offered at Prince Eddy’s! Check their website for live music listings and other special events.
What To Do In Prince Edward County
Sandbanks National Park
As the world’s largest baymouth barrier dune formation, Sandbanks offers three expansive sandy beaches for your enjoyment. With the popularity of this park, you need to book your day use permit in advance to guarantee entry.
Bring everything you need for a beach day and enjoy the sunshine and Lake Ontario waters with your group.
Yoga in the (Vine)Yard at Karlo Estates Winery
Guided a one hour yoga practice at 11:00am on Saturdays and Sundays.$20
The owners also offer yoga classes throughout the county and participate in the county’s Full Moon Yoga Festival
Mustang Drive Inn
Enjoy a retro drive-in experience in the county.
They offer different double features on each of our 2 giant screens Wednesday – Sunday (closed Mondays & Tuesdays) and the movies start just after sunset.
Tickets are $30 (+tax) each and good for ONE CARLOAD of up to 5 people.
Little John Farm
Little John Farm was born out of two individuals who met during the Camino de Santiago and shared a vision for how they could build a life around farming fresh ingredients and bringing their love of food to others. I attended an event hosted by Little John Farm in 2019, and the attention to detail and focus on supporting local vendors to create a wonderful and memorable evening. They also offer corporate team building and workshops to curate your kitchen skills.
Snowshoeing
If visiting PEC in the winter, a couple of the wineries offer rental snowshoes to use around the property and then end with a wine tasting. Check out Sugar Bush and Three Dog Winery
The Millennium Trail is a 46-km multi-use trail perfect for hiking, biking or even horseback riding. Stretching from Carrying Place to Picton, backing onto farmers’ fields and vineyards, it’s a great way to experience the tranquility of The County.
