Hello May!

The sun is shining, birds are singing, and lilacs are blooming!
Here are 10 Picks to help you spring into May while you Visit The County!

1. LET’S BRUNCH

In the County, we think every day should have a ‘Sunday kinda love’. And with so many restaurants and cafes to choose from every day, we thought we would point out just a few special food options for everyone. What’s your flavour?

• Bubbles Bruch (vegan) at the Winery at Karlo Estates Winery
• Vegan Cafe at GOOD Place
• Traditional Inn at Jackson’s Falls Country Inn
• Waterside at Picton Harbour Inn
• Amelia’s Garden at The Waring House
• Drive-In Diner at The Vic Cafe

2. BLOOMIN’ GOOD TIME AT THE GARDEN MARKET

Lockyer’s Garden Centre has more than 100 years of growing in Prince Edward County. As growers, Lockyer’s has one of the largest greenhouse facilities in Easter Ontario. The showroom is stocked with a great variety of garden decor, tools and giftware. Greg Moore the owner, and CJ Dearlove the General Manager, are the most recognized faces at Lockyer’s but their own in-house mascot greeters… Barkley and Sophie are their much-beloved family Retrievers welcoming visitors who drop by to just enjoy the sheer beauty and colour of the greenhouse, grounds and the large number of plants and baskets grown onsite.
https://lockyers.com/

3. PORCH READING

What is a vacation without a good book to dig into? A browse through Books & Company will not only take you back to the quality of the quintessential bookstore but will leave you with armloads of options for great County reads, music, and life!
https://pictonbookstore.com/

4. SWEET TREATS

Locals know this is a much do for Spring! Slickers County Ice Cream has been creating all-natural artisan ice cream for over 20 years. Their rich ice cream is made fresh daily in small batches in their licensed dairy.
https://www.facebook.com/slickerscountyicecream/

CELEBRATE PATIO WEATHER

Well, what can we say? Here in The County, we love our patios. So much so that we’ve created an entire inventory of 50 breeze-feelin’, fresh air-smellin’, good-vibin’ patios. You’re welcome!
https://www.visitthecounty.com/50-patios-to-soak-up-the-sun-in-prince-edward-county-for-2023%f0%9f%8c%9e/

6. GET FRESH AT THE FARMERS’ MARKET

Prince Edward County has a rich history in agriculture. Being a significant industry contributor for over 200 years! “Farm Fresh” has never been closer than the dozens of County farm stands you might find while touring the island. Cross off all your grocery list items, plus pick up some lunch at any of our weekly Farmers’ Markets, where you can meet the growers and makers. Be sure to check out these County Markets:
http://www.countymarkets.ca/

7. TOAST TO A SPARKLING AFTERNOON

8. DOG DAYS OF SUMMER

Well, you know what they say… ‘Mans Best Friend’ likes nothing more than to be with on your journey, car ride, stroll, shop, or patio. Here’s a guide to all your dog friendly locations to share with Fido (Spot, Lucky, or Bella)
https://www.visitthecounty.com/dog-pooch-pet-prince-edward-county/

9. BIKES + BASKETS

What better way to explore The County than a ride along The Millennium Trail or ask about a guided tour. Get ready to ride.

• Pedego PEC -Electric Bikes
  https://pedegoelectricbikes.ca/pedego_dealers/pedego-prince-edward-county/
• County Bike Rentals
  https://www.countybikerentals.com/
• Closson Road Cycles
  http://www.clossonroadcycles.com/
• Beacon Bike + Brew
• https://www.beaconbikebrew.com/

10. THE FRESH FACE OF SPRING

Finally, this is a season to take time for self-care and refreshing your environment.

• Savon Du Bois
  https://www.savondubois.com/
• The County Candle Co.
  https://thecountycandleco.com/
• Telford Basics
  https://telfordbasics.com/pages/ourstory
• Coriander Girl
  https://coriandergirl.com/

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A Bucket List for Winter in Prince Edward County ❄️☃️

We’re going to let you in on one of our best-kept secrets: winter in Prince Edward County. Sure, it’s colder and quieter, but for us those are just added benefits that make for some unforgettable experiences. For the uninitiated that may need some convincing, so keep reading to discover our bucket list for an incredible winter experience in The County.

Note: this bucket list might not be accomplished in a single weekend getaway, but maybe that calls for making a PEC winter getaway a tradition. Or better yet, book a longer stay to enjoy a whole week of winter fun in The County. Discover unique and luxurious accommodations our website here.

Snowshoeing is a great way to get out and explore parts of County properties you don’t usually get to see (where permitted, of course!), especially when there’s lots of snow on the ground.

1. Snowshoe at a Winery

There are so many reasons to love The County in winter, and one of them is the opportunity to get outside and enjoy the crisp and refreshing air before tucking into a cozy wine tasting around the fire. ⁠This is made possible at Sugarbush Vineyards and Three Dog Winery, where their private trails allow for you to experience a part of PEC not typically open to the public.

At Sugarbush Vineyards, you’ll find a 2.5 km snowshoe trail though their sugarbush and vineyard. You can rent or bring your own snowshoes, and your fee includes a wine tasting, hot chocolate and cookies by the fire. They trails are open most weekends during the winter, but be sure to check in advance before arriving.

At Three Dog Winery they offer a guided hike through their snowshoe trails most weekends throughout the winter. For $30 you will get a snowshoe rental for your guided tour, two glasses of wine, and a light snack. Spots are limited so be sure to book in advance on their website.

As with all winter experiences, snowshoeing is subject to the weather, so keep your fingers crossed for lots of snow! 🤞

Hit the rink at Parsons Brewing for a fun activity for the whole family. The rink is weather dependent, so be sure to keep your fingers crossed for cold weather!

2. Hit the Ice at Parsons

One of the great things about Prince Edward County in wintertime is that there is plenty of fun to be had for the whole family, and one of these hubs for winter family fun is Parsons Brewing, where kiddos and kids at heart can take to the covered rink, sip hot chocolate and make s’mores by the fire. Stick around for their delicious Argentinian-inspired food menu (or come early for Sunday brunch!) and of course their extensive list of handcrafted beers. ⁠

⁠
To have this winter experience, be sure to follow Parsons Brewing on Instagram for updates about the opening of their winter rink. As with snowshoeing, this experience is subject to good winter weather, so hope the cold weather sticks around so we have as many weekends of skating fun as possible.

Enjoy an outdoor pint on the patio at Gillingham Brewing for a cozy winter experience.

3. Get Cozy on an Outdoor Patio

⁠Sure, it’s great snuggling up indoors next to a fire, but there’s something equally as great about embracing the chill, bundling up and enjoying some locally-crafted beverages by the fire pit. Gillingham Brewing in particular has a fantastic outdoor patio with fire tables and heaters to ease some of the chill, that goes perfectly with their handcrafted beers, wine from neighbouring Domaine Darius, and frequent oyster pop-ups. But whether at Gillingham or many of Prince Edward County’s wineries, breweries and cideries, this is an essential part of the winter experience in The County. Bonus: it’s family and pup-friendly, with space for kids to enjoy the snow and the ability for pups to join you on your County outings. ⁠

🐶 Related: Pet-friendly PEC⁠ 🐶

If the weather is not cooperating (not snowy enough, too snowy, too cold, not cold enough – really it depends on who you are!) a stroll down one or all of The County’s Main Streets is a must in winter. There’s nothing like whiling away an afternoon in a quaint rural town to reset the spirits.

4. Enjoy a Main Street Stroll

Whatever the weather, a stroll along one of The County’s main streets should be on your list. With delightful shops, delicious restaurants and plenty of quaint cafés to satisfy whatever craving you have. Looking for some ideas?

• In Picton, discover contemporary homewares at Kala Home, stop in for a quick lunch at The Royal Hotel‘s Counter Bar (don’t forget to grab a cannoli for dessert), and pick out the perfect winter read for you or the kids at Books & Company.
• In Bloomfield, add a little Scandi to your skincare regime at Scandiskin, discover contemporary Canadian art at Guildworks, and warm up with lunch off the vegan menu at Bermuda.
• Meanwhile, over in Wellington design your own vintage-inspired jewellery piece at Anice Jewellery, stock up on green-living essentials at GOOD Place, and grab a pint and a bite at Midtown Brewing.

Seeking shelter from the weather? Find refuge at one of the County’s many cafés. If you have kiddos in tow, be sure to check out Beacon Bike+Brew to take advantage of their kid-friendly play area so you can truly enjoy your coffee. The dream!

5. Take a Coffee (or Cocoa) Break

When you’re spending so much time out in the cold, it’s always a treat to head inside for a bit of a winter warmer. Luckily, The County has lots of options for you and your kiddos to get warm with a coffee or hot chocolate. Speaking of kids, if you have them you definitely want to head to Beacon Bike+Brew in Picton where their kid-friendly play area is perfect to keep them entertained while you relax with a brew. Also in Picton you’ll find Lily’s Café (connected to Books & Company), the Bean Counter Café, and Luso Bites, where you’ll find a whole host of delicious Portugese delights (including pastel de nata!) alongside a large coffee menu. If tea is more your speed, don’t miss Savon Du Bois, whose apothercary is sure to provide the perfect remedy to a chilly day. Other coffee spots include Bloomfield Public House as well as Bloomfield Beauty Co., GOOD Place, Piccolina Mercato and Consecon Honey House Café.

☕ Related: Coffee, Coffee, Coffee☕

Visiting a winery in winter can be just as magical as the height of summer. Here, a couple overlooks the resting vines at Domaine Darius.

6. Visit a Winery

If you want to learn more about winemaking in Prince Edward County straight from the source, a winter visit to some local wineries should definitely be on your list. Not only are the cozy vibes inside the tasting room unmatched, but it’s also a perfect opportunity to chat with tasting room staff – and in many cases the winemakers themselves – about making wine in The County and the terroir that makes it so special. Who knows, you may even get a taste of a new release! For more information about our local wineries be sure to explore the wine section of our website, or check out PEC Wine’s newly updated website and app to help plan your perfect tour.

Enjoy a delicious brunch at one of many offerings in The County including Creekside Café, pictured here. At some spots brunch is a special seasonal option in winter, so don’t miss out!

7. Enjoy a Leisurely Brunch

When you have a day of wintery outdoor adventures planned, there’s no better way to start your day than with hearty brunch. Luckily, winter in Prince Edward County is brunch season, with many spots offering seasonal brunch menus in addition to our already popular brunch offerings. Here are some delicious brunch experiences you will want to have this winter: ⁠ ⁠

• Creekside Café won our hearts with their stunning brunch menu when they opened last summer, and the good news is that they’re still at it this winter, and with new menu items to boot. Brunch starts up again this Saturday, so don’t miss it! ⁠ ⁠
• Come for the weekend and stay for the brunch starting January 15 at Jackson’s Falls Country Inn. Not staying at the inn? That’s okay – you’re invited too! Just be sure to make a reservation in advance. ⁠ ⁠
• Head to Karlo Estates for their bubble brunch every Sunday – all-you-can-eat vegan pancakes, handcrafted sparkling wine, and a cozy barn setting – what more could you want?⁠ ⁠
• Run to Parsons Brewing to experience their seasonal brunch menu before enjoying a wintery pint by the fire and a skate on their outdoor rink (weather permitting). ⁠ ⁠
• Check out the new breakfast menu at The County Canteen featuring deliciousness such as an epic breakfast burrito and an indulgent breakfast poutine. ⁠ ⁠
• They’re available all year round, but we’d be remiss not to mention the decadent brunches at the Drake Devonshire, The Royal Hotel, and Picton Harbour Inn. ⁠ ⁠

Yellow arrows mark a trail in Sandbanks Provincial Park during winter. The path ahead is covered in snow and lined with snow-frosted pine trees. ⁠ ⁠

8. Hit the Trails

There’s nothing like a walk in the forest after a snowfall. Luckily, Prince Edward County has lots of options to get you breathing that winter air between brunch, wine tasting, and your next indulgent County meal. Here’s just a few:

• Macaulay Mountain Conservation Area is a great stop for a walk after spending the morning in Picton. With access from Macaulay Heritage Park, this Quinte Conservation area has a large trail network that allows for you to customize your routes. Be sure to download a map  and wear appropriate footwear as the path can be wet in places in mild weather, though with a fresh cover of snow it’s a dream! If you’re looking for an easier stroll or if you just want to take a look at one of The County’s loveliest community arts projects, be sure to check out Birdhouse City, which is located on the edge of the conservation area. ⁠ ⁠
• Sandbanks Provincial Park really shows off in winter with six trails to choose from of varying lengths and difficulty. From snow on the beach on Dunes Trail to quiet, riverside moments on Cedar Sands, you’re bound to stumble upon countless magical “are we in Narnia?” moments for your memory bank. Head to the Ontario Parks website to learn more about accessing Sandbanks in Winter, and don’t forget these crucial safety tips: ⁠ ⁠
  •  Stay off the lake. Shore ice can be very precarious and it’s not worth the risk. ⁠
  • Start your walk with plenty of time before dark to help ensure you get back to your car safely. ⁠
  • Dress appropriately. Winter boots. Layers. Gloves and hats. This is no place for sneakers! ⁠ ⁠
• The Millennium Trail runs the length of The County and is just as much a major artery through the area in winter as it is in the warmer months. Cross country skiing, fat biking, walking, and snowmobiling are just a few ways you can enjoy this public linear park. ⁠

For even more travel inspiration, be sure to follow us on Instagram and use #PrinceEdwardCounty to share your PEC winter experiences with us!

Insider’s guide to summer holidays in Prince Edward County

Updated May 12, 2022

The summer of 2020 had its moments, and in 2021 we changed things up a bit to make for a better experience for everyone, through 2022 and well beyond. Here are some insider tips to make your summer experience in PEC a great one. 

Not visiting in Summer? That’s okay – in fact, it’s great! Many of these tips still apply and the knowledge will still be helpful as you plan your trip. 

Wellington Rotary Beach

Visitors using Wellington Rotary Beach will be charged $10 per person on weekends and holidays starting Saturday May 21, and seven days a week in July in August.  to enter up until September 19th. Access is free as of September 20th. You are welcome to bring your own food, but cooking devices must be left at home. There will also be two food vendors on site. There is no reservation system, so it’s first come / first served. 

Want to avoid all that? If your swimming skills are decent, consider hiring a charter and use it to get on the water. You can find charter companies and more ways to get on the water here: https://www.visitthecounty.com/do/boating-fishing/

RELATED: Reserve Now, Relax Later

Wellington Rotary Beach Boat Launch

The ramp at Wellington Rotary Beach will have limited access on weekends and holidays. The ramp will be unavailable for launch from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Boats returning to shore during those hours will still be able to leave the water using the ramp. These limits on ramp hours are to help manage parking, visitor volumes and safety at the beach.

Parking fees at Boat Launches

Like last year, there is a  $20 parking fee for vehicles with trailers, and a $10 fee for vehicles alone, at all municipal boat launches. That means kayakers, canoeists and SUPpers will need to pay $10 to park at a municipal launch. Single-day parking permits can be purchased through the Mackay Pay app. The list of pay zone numbers for the boat launches can be found online, or posted at the launch. Single-day permits are also available for in-person purchase at the Edward Building or any library branch.⁠

Hot tip: Download the app from MacKay Pay. It’s the paid parking system used across The County. Pay by app in rural or remote areas; pay by machine in Picton. Find it at Google Play or the Apple Store.

If you’re intending to make frequent use of municipal launches, you may consider purchasing a season’s pass, good for the entire 2022 calendar year, for $100+HST. Permits can be purchased online on The County’s website, or in-person at the municipal customer service desk at The Edward Building (280 Picton Main Street, Suite 103), or at any Prince Edward County Library Branch. Permits will be mailed to the buyer, or can held for pick up at the Edward Building or any PEC Library Branch by request. Permits can also be purchased in person at the Edward Building or any library branch.⁠ Please have your name, number, address and email at the ready, as well as the licence plate for the vehicle you’ll connect to the pass.

RELATED: Summer 2022 Visitor Checklist

New No Parking Zones

Fines of $400 are now being applied to several areas where parked vehicles presented challenges to the flow of traffic and/or access for emergency vehicles. See the maps, below, for more detail. Please adhere to posted instructions on signs. These No Parking zones are active seasonally, from May 1 – October 31.

Disobeyed parking signs and got a ticket? Pay via https://www.thecounty.ca/residents/make-a-payment/parking-tickets/.

Camping

Unless you’re booked into a campground, skip setting up a sneaky tent or stealing down a sideroad with the RV. Fines have increased to $500, and additional bylaw officers will be out enforcing these rules. Book ahead, or look north to our friends in Bay of Quinte. They’re a nature enthusiast’s paradise, and they’ve got lots of ideas for where to camp here.

Quinte Conservation

Little Bluff Conservation Area has re-opened, with an improved parking area, signage, dedicated staff, washrooms and an entrance gate. Fees to enter Little Bluff are $15 per vehicle during the summer months and return to normal rates after Labour Day. However, the conservation area will close once at capacity and the parking lot holds just 30 vehicles.

Provincial Parks

Daily Vehicle Permits are back at Sandbanks and North Beach Provincial Parks for 2022. If you visited last year you will be familiar with this process, but if you’re visiting for the first time or need a refresher, read on. ⁠
⁠
Daily Vehicle Permits must be booked in advance for day-use access to The County’s Provincial Parks and can be booked up to 5-days in advance of your visit. Guests will be turned away at the gate if sold out, so we highly encourage you to take advantage of this service to avoid disappointment.⁠
⁠
Fun Fact: Sandbanks was sold out approximately 60 days between mid-June and August last year. North Beach was sold out 30 days. ⁠
⁠
If you are a season’s pass holder you still need to book a Daily Vehicle Permit in advance, but this will be free of charge. For non-season’s pass holders regular rates apply daily. They are available for booking at North Beach 5 days in advance of its opening on June 11. Daily Vehicle Permits are already available for booking at Sandbanks. ⁠So…
⁠
Do: ⁠
✅ Book up to 5 days in advance online at reservations.ontarioparks.com ⁠
✅ Secure a permit for each vehicle that will be visiting the park. ⁠
✅ Reserve whether you plan on visiting the beach or walking the trails. ⁠
✅ Book a Daily Vehicle Permit even if you are a season’s pass holder. ⁠
✅ Explore beyond the beach. Browse things to do in PEC here. 
⁠
Don’t:⁠
❌ Visit the park without booking a Daily Vehicle Permit in advance, especially on weekends from mid-June through August. ⁠
❌ Choose to come to Sandbanks or North Beach for a spontaneous day trip. ⁠
❌ Get turned away. Book in advance. ⁠
⁠
To reserve your Daily Vehicle permit head to reservations.ontarioparks.com and click the Day Use tab. ⁠
⁠
Like last summer, Lake on the Mountain Provincial Park will have dedicated staff on site to enforce parking. To park for up to two hours, the fee is $3. To park up from two to four hours, the fee is $6.50. 

For info on beach closures and other updates, follow Sandbanks, North Beach, Quinte Conservation, Wellington Rotary Beach and Glenora Ferry.

Maps for Public Washrooms, Picnic Areas, Information Spots

Wanna know where to go when you gotta go? We’ve got a map for that. Find more info here: visitpec.ca/washrooms/

Wanna feast al fresco? We’ve got a map for that too. Find more info here: visitpec.ca/2020/06/24/where-to-picnic-in-prince-edward-county/

Ready for a ride but not ready for the road? We’ve got a trail for that. The Millennium Trail goes clear across The County, a total of 46 km. It’s a former rail bed, so it’s mostly flat, and has been rehabilitated by a remarkable team of volunteers to fairly smooth too. Find a map of its highlights here, and a blog with everything you need to know here.

Try The County way of life

Last summer was hard on everybody. A few visitors got fed up and frustrated and did things we wished they hadn’t. As a host community fearful of the COVID virus, sometimes we weren’t as welcoming as we’d normally be. The pandemic got to all of us. This summer, our goal is to “Be More County,” and we hope you’ll try it too.

What’s that mean?

Be more County by:

• Slowing down. On roads, through a meal or through the day
• Spreading friendly vibes by doing the neighbourly thing: wave in traffic, give tractors and cyclists space on the roads, share the sidewalks
• Leaving park paths, shorelines, forest floors and waterways better than you found them
• Remembering that farms, parks and beaches are carefully managed eco-systems, not just awesome Instagram backdrops
• Remembering that sound travels beyond tables and fences, across tasting rooms, landscapes and bodies of water… and even in the dark
• Being patient, flexible and kind

And hey, if you can wait to visit, you WILL be rewarded. Fall is when The County truly shines. Consider a mid-September or October visit, when the humidity drops, the bugs go away and the crowds thin. Trust us: it’s magic.

Reserve Now, Relax Later

reservation res·er·va·tion/rezərˈvāSH(ə)n/noun: an arrangement whereby something, especially a seat or room, is booked or reserved for a particular person

All indications point to a busy summer 2022 in Prince Edward County. Even though things are returning to some sense of normal, it is still essential to pre-plan your visit.

While capacity limits are back up and most COVID-19 restrictions have been removed, reservations remain a good idea wherever possible. The County is a buzzing place, and not just because of the local bees! 

Call ahead

While we do our best to keep on top of opening hours, it continues to be best to check in with businesses themselvesCheck social media posts, or direct message, email or call to make sure that your destination is open and check whether a reservation is needed. 

RELATED: Insider tips for a summer County holiday

Make a dinner reservation

Don’t wait to be hungry before you find a place to eat. If you’ve booked a place to stay this summer, start locking in your dining reservations. You can try OpenTable or calling/messaging restaurants directly with your dates. Some restos take reservations only, while others first-come first-served. Even if planning for a meal of takeout or curbside pick, call ahead – many restaurants sell out early, especially on weekends. Lack of planning may result in unnecessary hangry. (Also, see our map of picnic areas, in case dining out means literally eating outside.)

That’s a 1969 Cadillac right there!

Book a Tour

Make a reservation for a Vintage Car Wine Tour! Join Sam Grosso for a bespoke wine tour in the vintage car of your dreams. The former owner of Toronto’s Cadillac Lounge has found a new calling and will take you on a 4-winery tour in a beautiful automobile from his fleet of vintage cars. Bring your fave playlist and rock the tunes in chauffeured style! For more tour options – including horse-drawn carriages, bicycles, luxury vehicles or taxis – click through to our blog on tours.

Or have County vintages come to you. Sommelier Jay Whiteley will arrive at your door with everything needed to take you on a private wine tasting adventure in the comfort of your holiday home. He’ll lead you through a 90-minute tasting of six of The County’s finest wines and share the stories behind the wines and the history of winemaking in The County.

Book Some Beach Time

If you’ve booked a stay here, you’ll need to plan your days because attractions, including Provincial Parks and Conservation Areas, are expected to continue to be hot spots throughout the summer. Book a day-use permit for Sandbanks or North Beach Provincial Parks. This can be done up to five days in advance of your trip, and guarantees entry. (On a hot, sunny weekend in July, August or September, don’t even consider heading to Sandbanks or North Beach without a permit in hand! The beach closes when full and every season, thousands of vehicles are turned away.) 

Please note that for the 2022 summer season, entry to the Wellington Rotary Beach will be $10 per person, 7 days a week in July and August. Entry to Little Bluff Conservation Area comes with a $15 parking fee that can be paid at the gate or through Pay by Phone. Free entry at Wellington Rotary Beach returns September 30th and parking at Little Bluff returns to standard rates after Labour Day Weekend. 

During peak summer months, beaches and outdoor spaces are especially busy and thousands of unprepared visitors are turned away every day. Do not head to the beach without a reservation (where possible) and checking these channels in advance:

• Sandbanks and North Beach – Check SandbanksPP on Twitter
• Wellington Rotary Beach – Check Prince Edward County on Twitter or Facebook
• Little Bluff and other Conservation Areas – Check Quinte Conservation for closures and other information.

RELATED: 2022 Visitor Checklist

Experience The County

Get to know The County on a deeper level by spending time with farmers, foragers and artists who are keen to share their love of land and local.

The Bloomin’ Welly Alpaca Trekk shows guests what they wouldn’t normally see on a farm tour, encouraging visitors to connect with the land and the animals and see how they work together. There’ll be plenty of time to spend with the alpacas, and guests will also be encouraged to keep a keen eye for how Noble Beast Farms works to create a welcoming environment to native flora and fauna, and give back to the land.

Courtesy @ComedyCountryFestival

See a Show and Take in Some Tunes

Entertainment is back in The County! There are shows galore planned for this year, from live music and comedy to the Festival Players’ chockablock season. Check out our event listing for a full round-up of reservable activities for your visit. 

Go for a Float

See the sights of Picton Harbour with Captain Larry or Captain Mike at Picton Harbour Pontoon Boat Tours. There are plenty of sailing and charter options available if you’re aiming to get on the water. Check out our blog on ways to go beyond the beach.

For kayaking and canoeing, make a reservation with Cabin Fever Kayaks or PEC Kayaks and refer to our blog on where to canoe, kayak or stand-up paddleboard for where to get on the water.

Ready to ride. Photo credit Diamond J Ranch

Ride a Horse

Book a trail ride with Diamond J Ranch. Enjoy a scenic mountain ride through fields and woods overlooking Picton Bay. They cater to families and groups, and inexperienced riders are welcome. Pony rides are available for the little ones. Farm tours can also be booked at Lamb’s Quarters Farm in Picton and Campbell’s Orchards on the shores of the Bay of Quinte.

Tee up a wine tour

Hoping to set up a tasting tour of County wineries or cideries? Download the new Wine Explorer app from the Prince Edward County Winegrowers Association. The app can match your personal wine preferences with bottles on offer at local wineries. It also includes detailed profiles, as well as lists of unique – and bookable! – wine activities and elevated tastings. Discover which wineries will welcome your dog. 

A successful escape in a historic air force base | Photo courtesy of Escape Camp Picton.

Escape Camp Picton

If you truly want to escape, we’ve got you covered! Escape Camp Picton, located at The County’s authentic WWII era gunnery training school, is launching an outdoor escape room in 2021, plus two indoor escapes for you and your bubble. This unique escape room takes inspiration from its location – blending heritage, history and an unforgettable game experience.

Looking for more ideas? We have lots of trip planning information here.

By Sue Hierlihy (Updated April 2022)

How to ‘Experience’ The County

Want to go beyond the tasting room or dining room and dive deep into The County? There are plenty of workshops and experiences to help you get immersed in art, agriculture, food, beverage, nature and history.

A couple highlights:

Agriculture

Littlejohn Farm is run by Zach and Luhana Littlejohn, a couple with deeply green thumbs and a commitment to sustainable living. At their farm just outside of Picton, they offer farm-to-table workshops in charcuterie, sourdough, cheese making and pickling. Zach, a trained chef and sommelier, usually puts his skills to use with a back garden dinner following the class.

Quinta do Conde is a farm-to-table experience offering slow, Mediterranean-style dinners where almost all the ingredients come from less than 100 metres away. Joaquim and Amor have an impressive operation, with a summer camp that connects kids with agriculture, a fully stocked farm stand (where there’s olive oil on tap from their small orchard in Portugal!) and a pop-up sandwich shop in the summer.

Food & Beverage

The Old Third is a winery/cidery that’s offering a behind-the-scenes tour with their winemaker and dinner at their home, at a table that’s essentially in the lake.

Black River B&B is run by two former employees of the Royal Ontario Museum and they do a decadent High Tea that comes with a side of history about glass and ceramics, featuring their own extensive antiques collection.

Art

Spark Box Studio offers print-making and screening workshops, as well as a new lithography workshop. Their studio is an Instagrammer’s dream and their screen-printing workshop based on iconic County buildings let’s you put a piece of The County on a T-shirt, tote or papryus. Tiny Regent Theatres for everyone!

History & Heritage

There’s a new Escape Room at Macaulay Heritage Park and the puzzle hinges on the true story of Reverend William Macaulay neglecting to pay his servants. Guests have 60 minutes to scour the museum for clues to help a servant find a treasure hidden in the historic house. If you’ve ever wanted to step back in time and handle all the artifacts, this is for you!

Nature

Cabin Fever Kayak is a new kayak rental place on the Black River, a burgeoning neighbourhood of The County where you’ll find cheese, art, farm stands and farm-to-table feasts only a paddle away.

PEPtBO, or the Prince Edward Point Bird Observatory, is offering “South Shore Safari” tours, a chance to get out and spot the flora, fauna and feathered friends of The County with an expert guide. The County is a birder’s paradise, with the South Shore recognized as an Important Birding Area due to its position as a way-station for migratory birds crossing the lake. In spring, we’re awash with warblers and 140 species of birds. In fall, owls and raptors touch down.