Athol: A Little Wild, A Lot Wonderful

Head over to the land of waves and winding roads - Athol Ward, where sun-soaked afternoons meet sandy toes, and the sound of rural life is slow and sweet. Best known as the home of Sandbanks Provincial Park, Athol offers so much more beyond the dunes. From farm stands and foraged fare to quirky roadside shops and quiet wineries, this part of The County invites you to wander, no itinerary required. 

For those seeking a peaceful nature escape, Beaver Meadow Conservation Area spans 220 acres. This wetland and woodland sanctuary offer two short and easy hiking trails, each leading to scenic observation platforms overlooking the marsh. The area is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, providing habitat for species like wood ducks, herons, and various songbirds. Whether you're interested in wildlife photography, a quiet walk, or simply enjoying the serene surroundings, Beaver Meadow offers a tranquil retreat into nature. 

Honey Pie Hives & Herbals is a sweet little stop you won’t want to miss. This family-run spot is all about bees, herbs, and small-batch goodies. They make mead—the original honey wine that dates back to royalty—right on the farm. And just like wine made from grapes reflects the soil it's grown in, their mead takes on the flavours of whatever flowers are blooming when the bees do their thing. So every bottle has its own unique taste. You’ll also find pure beeswax candles (they smell amazing, naturally), soap, lip balm, lotions, and herbal blends. Everything’s made right there on the farm using honey from their own hives and from other nearby farms they help pollinate. It’s a great place to pick up something local, learn a bit about beekeeping, and soak up those laid-back County vibes.

The Texaco Station in Cherry Valley has become a bit of a local icon. While it’s no longer pumping gas, the building (complete with its vintage signage) has been lovingly preserved and now stands as a roadside throwback to mid-century rural Ontario. You’ll find it along County Road 10, where it’s earned a reputation as a photo stop for visitors.

The Hayloft Dancehall has been a Prince Edward County staple for nearly 50 years, and it's easy to see why. Housed in a 170-year-old barn, this rustic gem transforms into a hub for nightlife and live entertainment every summer. From May through October, the barn doors open every weekend for an unforgettable lineup of live music, dancing, drag, and burlesque. For anyone looking to let loose and soak up the local scene, The Hayloft is a must.

Vader’s Maple Syrup bottles are a familiar sight in County shops, restaurants, and supermarkets, but there’s something extra sweet about picking it up at the source. Their farm on County Road 18 is a charming little spot to buy maple syrup year-round, offering a wide variety of sizes and containers. The Vader family has been producing maple syrup in The County since 1910, when Amos Vader moved here from Coe Hill and tapped into the property’s impressive sugarbush. Today, Todd and Susan Vader carry on the tradition, running a sugar shack with 2,800 taps. They’ve combined old-school craftsmanship with modern tools like vacuum tubing and reverse osmosis to produce syrup that’s high quality and sustainably made. It’s a great little detour where you can stock up on something sweet and local.

Caddy Shack Mini Golf is a quirky, fun-filled stop that’s perfect for families, date nights, or just a laid-back afternoon. This retro-style mini golf course offers 18 holes of classic putt-putt complete with colourful obstacles and cheeky course designs. 

For those who like to mix in a little adventure with their beach day, Sandbanks Provincial Park has more to offer than just sun and sand. The park is home to several scenic hiking trails that wind through dunes, forests, and wetlands.

The Woodlands Trail is a great choice for a peaceful walk under the trees, while the Cedar Sands Trail follows the shoreline of the Outlet River with plenty of opportunities for birdwatching. The Dunes Trail takes hikers right through the park’s famous sand dunes and it's like stepping into another world.

If you're more about paddling than hiking, Sandbanks also offers canoe and kayak rentals. It’s an easy and relaxing way to explore the Outlet River or nearby East Lake. Glide past towering reeds, spot turtles and herons, and soak in the slower pace that defines summer in The County.

Inside a charming red barn in Cherry Valley, Cottage and Crown is one of those local gems that’s easy to fall in love with. This cozy home décor and gift shop blends farmhouse and cottage-core vibes with a curated selection of vintage treasures. It’s a warm, inviting space and a must-visit for lovers of vintage charm, and thoughtful gifts.

Make sure to load up your cooler before making your way in, Athol is a bit of a drive from town, but that’s all part of the charm. Once you hear the sound of waves lapping at the shore, you’ll realize the journey was worth it. This is the kind of place where the pace slows down, and the simple pleasures become unforgettable.