A rustic adventure awaits as you drive into the peaceful borough of Prince Edward County. Brick farmhouses and old wooden barns line the country roads; repurposed buildings house antique shops; and the locals are more than happy to share stories and visitor tips. Referred to as ‘The County,’ this historical gem has much to offer and lots to experience for an exciting weekend road trip.
Where to Stay:
Stay at the super-chic Angelines Inn in Bloomfield, where each room is perfectly curated by co-owner and second-generation innkeeper, Alexandre Fida. Book the master suite: outfitted with an antique chaise, freestanding soaker tub and down-filled pillow-top king bed. Dine at the Agrarian, walking distance from Angelines; pick up some local cheese and charcuterie at their cheese market before leaving. Breakfast is buffet-style in Angelines Hubb Eatery where you can eat inside or out on the patio.
What to Do:
Grab your bike, or rent one at Bloomfield’s Bicycle Co. and cycle the Millenium Trail, a multi-purpose trail that was once a railway; keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. Relax on the beach at Sandbanks Provincial Park or explore the famous sand dunes and boardwalk trails.
What to Eat:
Dinner round two is at the Drake Devonshire on Wharf Street in the township of Wellington. This uber-hip inn, restaurant and art gallery overlooks Lake Ontario and is a hot spot for locals and tourists. Treat yourself to a delectable dinner on the deck, and make sure to order a glass or bottle of the Vintner’s Daughter; a red and white wine blend made exclusively for the Drake by Rosehall Run Vineyards.
Spend your last day wine touring. Stop at Hinterland Wine Company for unique sparkling wine. You’ll be greeted by the family dog who is more than happy to lead you straight to the tasting bar where Jonas, owner and winemaker, enthusiastically pours sample after sample for you to taste and enjoy.
Leave with a bottle of bubbly to pop open for a special occasion. Head to Norman Hardie Winery for their wood-fired thin crust pizza paired with a glass of their county chardonnay. Last stop is at the Grange of Prince Edward, where this dynamic mother-daughter team, Caroline and Maggie, infuse tradition and innovation in their winemaking style. The winery is a converted 19th-century wooden barn; thrifted-finds and handcrafted wares decorate this charming spot. Leave with a bottle of estate-grown pinot noir, and a picnic-basket full of local treats to snack on while driving home.
For one last sweet taste of county life, visit Slickers County Ice Cream for a double scoop of homemade ice before hopping onto the open country road.
Nice! Makes me want to take a road trip here?