Prince Edward County is just two and a half hours east of Toronto and noted as one of the province’s famous wine regions. The location makes it a perfect weekend trip, or day trip if you feel ambitious with a small-town feel adorned with wineries, breweries, beaches, camping, accommodations, and notable foodie spots.

What drew us to visit this region first and foremost was finding Ashrow Estate. The 1800s Victorian-style estate house has everything you need for a unique stay from the gorgeous modern natural-light bedrooms (that’s five bedrooms with eight beds), to the whimsical way each room connects, to the comfy family room and kitchen.

The spot is also a short drive from a bunch of small clusters of towns where you can always find local spots worth checking out.

For the short time we were there, we weren’t able to explore every spot PEC has to offer but we did check out a couple places that really surprised and impressed us, leaving a good taste in our mouth (literally and figuratively).

The first stop we made when arriving to the county was Midtown Brewing Company. The brewery and brewpub is situated in what seems to be the ‘downtown’ of the area. The space itself has huge high ceilings, to fit all the beer brewing equipment that you see on-site, and even dine beside. It also includes a bar, and retail store area. The beer is also local and craft and they have a ton of options from a lager, to an IPA, and stout. 

The next day, we took to the town to check out Bloomfield Public House, a quaint but beautiful and artistic family-owned restaurant with a rich history. We visited for lunch and learned that the restaurant actually used to be a bank, and you can still see the vault on the wall creatively incorporated into the design of the spot. Bloomfield also has a room upstairs for private functions and events that is gorgeously decorated and perfect for group lunches or dinners for virtually any occasion.

Prince Edward County is arguably most known for being one of three prominent Ontario wine regions. This region itself has over 40 wineries with gorgeous properties.

Grange of Prince Edward County is a winery set up inside a 200-year-old barn. The property itself is beautiful, with chickens outside and a pond. Inside is cozy and wooden while still providing modern touches. This winery is a country-zen paradise and their wines add to the experience. 

A short drive away was Rosehall Run. This winery is in a modern building at the very end of a long gravel road. Their tasting room and retail space was stocked with all of their wines and guests have the option to try anything they want. 

Last but certainly not least, Sandbanks Winery. The grounds are huge and we learned that they often have patio parties and events happening in the summer. Tour the barrel room and find a secondary tasting bar in the back that we can’t wait to get back to!

The hospitality, food, wineries, and overall feel and energy of the whole experience was something that adds years to your life.