Recently, I decided to vacay from my daily routine and travel on an adventure to Prince Edward County in Canada. It was always on my travel bucket list, and I had never been to what is known for its beautiful landscapes, famed wineries, and friendly community.
With my bags packed, I was already thinking about the lively vineyard towns and fresh country breezes. This vacation was not just about escaping the gloom, it also provided an opportunity to recharge my batteries and visit new places to make a few friends.
Sip Your Way Through Wine Country
As a wine lover, I was looking forward to exploring some local wineries. I started at some respectable wineries where I could taste an incredible range of wines. The winemakers stopped in each one and were excited to show off their wines and explain how they work.
The wine tasting was not only about sipping the wines; it was also about being so connected with every bottle because of their stories. You’ll get to taste a range of wines and understand the ins and outs of winemaking- from grape to glass. I enjoyed the experience and learned a lot, so I highly recommend this if you visit the County.
Embracing Small Town Charm
For some time, explore the small towns that filled the region. A couple of my personal highlights would be Bloomfield and Wellington. I was also consoled by a scoop of their renowned lavender ice cream at Slickers Ice Cream in Bloomfield. Coming down the town center felt like a stroll back in time with quaint little shops and cafes that varied from handmade crafts to baked goods.
Wellington, on the other hand, was relaxing by the water. Wellington Beach- The quiet, speaking waves of a lake just relaxed my spirit. Believe it or not, nearly one-third of the towns have a population under 1k, so pick your little town and take in the slower pace.
Things to do in Prince Edward County
Outdoor Adventures
Prince Edward County is sure to be a paradise for the outdoorsy type. One of my favorite mornings was spent kayaking on the Black River. It was my first time Kayaking, so I was a bit nervous in the beginning. After a little bit, I warmed up to it and discovered that it was an amazing way to take in all the beautiful landscapes.
The Nature Bay and the Cradoc Hill Recreation Shot are where fishing enthusiasts will find their paradise in the County. Best known for walleye, the Bay of Quinte offers some fantastic fishing. Even if you do not like fishing, just being by the water or taking a boat tour to have lunch in an area can be very rewarding.
Joining in the Festivities
A pleasant surprise of my trip was discovering local festivals around the area. It just so happened that I visited during the Terroir Wine Festival, a native festival that unites wine lovers and local producers. The mood was celebratory, with music, food, and various wines to explore. That was an excellent opportunity to meet people and live more locally.
The County also has the terrific-sounding Prince Edward County Jazz Festival, which I missed but only heard good things about. A draw for music lovers far and wide-come see talented acts rock out at different venues around town during this weeklong event. If you think of dropping by, check out their local events calendar.
Encountering the Local Agriculture
What I loved most about Prince Edward County, one of the true Ontario gems besides its rolling fields and Victorian farmhouses, was something agricultural. I went to many farms, including Vicki’s Veggies, and saw how hard people work in the efforts of organic harvests. The highlight was the heirloom tomatoes – juicy, deep red. I also went to a lavender farm, and it was terrific. As I walked through the sweet-smelling fields, I couldn’t resist buying lavender honey and essential oils to take home with me.
A Warm Welcome Everywhere
But what surprised me most about my time in Prince Edward County was the people. Whether I was visiting vineyards or small communities and farms, there was a level of authentic friendliness wherever we went.
Obviously, there was a sense of pride in this town, and they were dying to share it with any visitor. I felt this welcoming attitude towards me, making my journey way more special after what I experienced there. I left with a whole heart of thankfulness and eagerness to come back.
Making Memories in Prince Edward County
I left Prince Edward County and thought about how much I really found some comfort here, with a smile on my face. The mix of beautiful scenery, deep culture, and friendly people was a great escape. Prince Edward County has something to offer everyone- whether you want a tranquil escape, taste the land through outdoor adventure, or satisfy your inner food and wine lover.
One only ever regrets the things they choose not to do – so if it is something you are considering, dive in. The County will get under your skin and give you lasting memories for years after you drive home. I know I’ll be back, eager to explore more of its hidden gems and discover a few new ones along the way.
