Sipping and Sightseeing in Prince Edward County

WORDS + PHOTOS: Stef Richardson

Girls getaway to Prince Edward County - check check check! There are two things that can get me in a car and that is wine + food. Lucky for us, Prince Edward County had no shortage of those two things. We had this trip planned since March so you can only imagine the planning, scheming and insta-saving I’ve been doing since then. I was preparing myself for the ultimate two-nighter and packed lots of stretchy pants. Best move.

CUE: Olivia Rodrigo album - we honestly listed to this on repeat the whole drive down. No joke.

// CLOSSON CHASE VINYARDS (ABOVE) GRANGE WINERY VINES (RIGHT)

If you’ve hunted the PEC insta scene, I’m sure you’ve come across the Lakeside Motel. This hip, central waterfront motel with a vibey pool is where we called home for two-nights. We opted for the glamping experience which consisted of a canvas tent, fan, cricket set, double bed, mini fridge, muskoka chairs and our own fire pit. They even came and build you a fire as the sun sets - upon request! What we didn’t sign up for was the family reunion of earwigs (about 40-50) that came out to play on our first night. Gotta thank rainy evenings for that. Coming to you live - we survived! We lived through those moments and were able to catch a few Z’s but I don’t need to see another earwig any time soon. LIVE LAUGH + PROTECT YOURSELF.

That being said, the cocktails were great, the pool was a vibe, restaurant was buzzin’ and I was kind of into the outdoor showers. Loved our time but next visit I’ll probably rent an Airbnb and come enjoy the Lakeside with a pool pass for the day. Pool side service - yes please.

To maximize our fun, we booked a private driver, Grant Freestone, through ‘Unofficial Wine Tours’ . He was a hoot! Picked us up at the motel and got us to A, B and C safely and very entertained. Couldn’t recommend the company more if you have some dollars to spend and want to remove driving responsibility from your itinerary. This was a no BS, all laughs, bonding type of partnership. No objections on my A/C requests so mad love for you, G!

My favourite part about the county is the location as it reminds me a bit of home. Two lane highways, fields upon fields, charming shops and a certain slow-pace rhythm that flows from town to town. Everything is quite dispersed so you really need to know where you want to go if you haven’t signed up for a tour. As said before, no shortage of good food and good wine. I’m sure you really couldn’t tell…

PICCOLINA MERCATO + BAR ~ BEST ITALIAN CAFE

Here are a few highlights and must-visits if you find yourself in PEC. I couldn’t catch em’ all so if you have any additions and/or questions, feel free to add them in the comments. Can’t wait to return.

KINSIP - great spirits + outdoor tasting room. Lots of space, chickens good BBQ.

CLOSSON CHASE VINEYARDS - Purple barn winery w/ covered patio and a variety of reds, whites and rose options.

GRANGE WINERY - Outdoor set-up with cocktail truck, gourmet hotdogs and tasting kits to-go.

FLAME + SMITH - One of my fave restaurants in the County (Bloomfield). I’ve been twice now and love their wood-fired passion and friendly service. Recommend one hundo.

PICCOLINA MERCATO + BAR - Felt like I was in Europe, sipping on coffee and enjoying bites of everything. Tarts, croissants, focaccia, donuts - you name it. All baked in house and brought to table on silver platters and crystal glassware. LOVED.

THE DRAKE DEVONSHIRE - Great spot for post-dinner cocktails. Located right on the lake, we sipped and enjoyed some live music while sitting next to the beachside fire. What a night cap.

THE BEACON - Great cafe in Picton to start the day. Opted for the breakfast sandwich and they were very generous with ingredients. Lots of grainy mustard, cheese + thick AF ham. Shoulda ordered two.

JAMIE KENNEDY FRIES - Yummy little spot off the beaten path in Hillier. Fresh cut fries, aioli and seasonal sodas. Loved this little pit stop.

SLAKE BREWING - Cool views, fun branding and delicious beers. Great location just outside of Picton.