Guest blog by Anita Mac.
Prince Edward County’s unassuming nature and bounty of activities offers a quiet and scenic retreat from the energy that is Toronto. You’ll feel the change of pace from the moment you arrive.
Settlement started in the County during the 18th Century, with agriculture playing an important role in shaping the County. Today, the mild climate and abundance of shorelines have made Prince Edward County a favourite summer playground for those “in the know”. No matter your interests, there is something for everyone in the County!
Prince Edward County Bucket List
Taste – Farm fresh and local ingredients are the trend in the County as the region develops into a foodie mecca. Freshly harvested fruits and vegetables, artisan cheese and locally raised meats have made the County the “gastronomic capital of Ontario”, with top chefs waiting to tempt your taste buds. Follow the Taste Trail signs for a fantastic foodie adventure to eat your way through the region.
Wine – Prince Edward County is a burgeoning haven for oenophiles. The soil and microclimate provide a unique terroir. Also try the local cider and craft breweries that complement the region. Whether self-guided or taking a tour – Prince Edward County has already put itself on the wine map. Be sure to stop in at the cellar door while in town – you won’t go home empty handed!
Cooking Classes – On the culinary destination map, cooking schools in the County will give you fresh inspiration in the kitchen, bringing the farm to the table and the skills to cook like a chef.
Art Galleries – Artists have been flocking to Prince Edward County and the Arts Trail enables visitors to explore the studios and galleries of local artists on a self-guided tour.
(Over 30 venues on the trail including painters, glassblowers, and jewellery makers)
Beach Life – Want to slow down and enjoy the natural beauty of the County? Take in the sand dunes at Sandbanks Provincial Park, or stroll along the pebble beach in
Fishing – The County is surrounded by 800 km of shoreline with dozens of sheltered harbours with hot spots to tempt anyone from novice to expert.
Paddling/Sailing – The County has an abundance of choice for paddling and sailing from sheltered waterways to the open waters of Lake Ontario.
Bicycle Touring – The gorgeous setting, quiet roads and rolling terrain make for perfect cycle touring conditions in the County and through the vineyards.
Birdhouse City – Macaulay Mountain Conservation Area is home to over 100 birdhouses, most of them reproductions of historic buildings, churches and cottages from the region.
Antiquing – Looking for the perfect piece of “Canadiana”? From quality refinished furniture to an ever changing assortment of desirables and eclectics, there is a wide assortment of antique shops dotted around the County.
Getting there:
Located only 2.5 hours from Toronto, Prince Edward County makes for a perfect day trip.
Anita Mac started the blog Travel Destination Bucket List to document what happened when she packed in her job, put her house in storage and started a trip around the world. Her blog is about dreaming about what to do, where to go, how to do it and more importantly – sharing tips from what she has done!
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4 replies on “My Ontario Roadtrip: Prince Edward County Bucket List”
May you rest in peace, Anita
Hi Anita,
Thank you for doing an article on Prince Edward County and thank you very much for mentioning the Arts Trail. The many talented and diverse artists that have made PEC their home are well worth a visit to their studios spread around the country side. Please stop in and see the exciting and unique work that is being produced by these talented individuals. None of us bite and you may just learn some fascinating facts about our world!
Cheers, Kirei
Lalaland Glass Studio
I love Prince Edward County! Went for a fall colour trip last October and stayed at Hillsdale House in Bloomfield. I also think the beaches at Sandbanks Provincial Park are some of the best in Ontario. Great photo of the Dunes Beach, by the way!
Great article! I love the idea of doing a cooking class, especially since there’s so much lovely produce all around!