Prince Edward County

Prince Edward County beach.
The Cosmonaut, Wikimedia Commons

Prince Edward County offers a serene escape, blending its charming rural landscape with a vibrant wine region and stunning Lake Ontario beaches. It provides opportunities to indulge in local culinary experiences, engage with the arts, and enjoy diverse outdoor activities.

Visitors often find themselves drawn to the lively Main Streets of Picton and Bloomfield, which are home to various shops and eateries. The numerous wineries and cideries across the County also serve as popular social hubs for tastings. Furthermore, the evolving Taste Trail will soon connect culinary and agricultural experiences for broader interaction.

Top 7 Things to do in Prince Edward County

Prince Edward County offers diverse experiences, from relaxing on stunning beaches and exploring a vibrant wine region to engaging with local history and arts, and enjoying active outdoor pursuits.

1. Sandbanks Provincial Park

Experience the expansive freshwater beaches and towering sand dunes at Sandbanks Provincial Park, a highly popular destination in Prince Edward County. Its shallow waters make Outlet Beach ideal for families, while Dunes Beach features a significant sand dune system. Booking a day-use vehicle permit in advance is crucial, especially during summer, as the park frequently reaches capacity.

Cost: A Day-Use Vehicle Permit costs $21 CAD per vehicle. These passes can be purchased up to five days in advance online.

Transport: The only way to reach Sandbanks Provincial Park is by car, as public transit options are not available. It is approximately a 20-minute drive from Picton.

2. Wine Tour Experience

Discover Prince Edward County's renowned wine region by visiting its numerous wineries. Many offer educational tastings and stunning vineyard views. Options include self-guided tours with a planned route or joining a guided tour for a more structured experience. Wine tasting fees are often waived with a purchase.

Cost: Wine tastings typically range from $1 to $10 per person, though some may cost more. Guided wine tours vary widely, from around $50 to $200 per person, with some premium experiences reaching upwards of $525 for two, which may include meals. Tour prices often do not include tasting fees.

Transport: Wineries are generally not within walking distance of each other. A car is necessary for self-guided tours. Alternatively, guided tours usually provide transportation, or taxis can be used, though this can be costly.

3. Cycling the Millennium Trail

Explore the County's scenic landscape by cycling the Millennium Trail, a 46-kilometer recreational trail that stretches from Carrying Place to Picton. This car-free path provides a safe and enjoyable way to experience various vistas and natural settings. Bike rental services are available locally.

Cost: Bike rental rates vary by type and duration. A standard comfort bike for a day can cost around $50-$60, while an e-bike can be $95 for a day. Special rates are often available for multi-day rentals.

Transport: Bike rental shops are located in towns like Picton and Wellington, some offering delivery and pick-up. The Millennium Trail is easily accessible from various points in the County.

4. Macaulay Heritage Park

Step back in time at Macaulay Heritage Park, a charming historic site in Picton. This park features Macaulay House, a restored 1830s home, the historic Church of St. Mary Magdalene (now a museum), and beautiful heritage gardens. It offers an engaging look at Prince Edward County's history, including an exhibit on reconciliation efforts.

Cost: Admission is by donation or typically around $5 for adults, with reduced fees for students, seniors, and children.

Transport: Macaulay Heritage Park is centrally located in Picton, allowing for easy access with ample parking. It is within walking distance of other local attractions in Picton.

5. Prince Edward County Arts Trail

Embark on a self-guided tour along the Prince Edward County Arts Trail, connecting visitors with professional artists and curators. Explore unique single-artist studios and contemporary galleries showcasing a range of media, from paintings and photography to sculpture and ceramics. Many galleries are located in charming towns or along scenic routes.

Cost: Admission to galleries is often free, though some may suggest a donation (e.g., Art in the County exhibition suggests $5 per adult). The cost for purchasing artwork varies widely.

Transport: The Arts Trail is a self-guided experience, requiring personal transportation to navigate between studios and galleries spread throughout the County.

6. Visit a Cidery

Indulge in Prince Edward County's growing craft beverage scene by visiting a local cidery. Many offer tastings of unique ciders, often crafted from local apples. Some cideries also provide picturesque views of orchards and vineyards, and may feature food options.

Cost: Tasting fees for ciders can vary, with some offering samples of multiple ciders for around $12 per person.

Transport: Similar to wineries, cideries are generally spread across the County, necessitating a car or a guided tour for easy access.

7. Little Bluff Conservation Area

Discover Little Bluff Conservation Area, perched atop a 20-meter limestone bluff, offering panoramic views of Prince Edward Bay and the rugged coastline. A pathway leads down to a unique cobblestone beach. It is a quiet natural area, perfect for hiking and observing local wildlife, including various bird species.

Cost: A parking fee of $15-$16 per vehicle applies.

Transport: Little Bluff Conservation Area is accessible by car. Public transport is not available. Note that parking access may be limited or closed seasonally due to weather conditions, though walking access is still possible.

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