South Marysburgh: A Hidden Haven of Nature, Art, and County Charm

Welcome to South Marysburgh, a rugged and remote-feeling corner of Prince Edward County where nature runs wild and creativity flourishes. As we finish off our last ward on the Off the Beaten Path journey, this ward offers a rich blend of shorelines, artist studios, and one-of-a-kind businesses nestled between farms and backroads.

At the heart of the ward is Milford, the only true village in South Marysburgh and proudly self-proclaimed as the “hamlet of friendliness.” Located along the Black River, Milford’s roots trace back to the early 1800s when it was a bustling timber milling hub. Today, it’s a community on the cusp of renewal, with vacant storefronts slowly being brought back to life by passionate locals and new small businesses. Its quiet charm and growing energy make it a natural starting point for your day of discovery.

Here, the pace is slower than most, the roads a little more winding, and the sense of exploration runs deep. Whether you’re grabbing a fresh loaf in Milford, or watching a live play in a converted church, South Marysburgh delivers a different kind of County magic. Raw, real, and deeply rooted in place.

Cabin Fever Kayak is where the adventure kicks off. Whether you’re in the mood to kayak, paddleboard, or canoe, these folks have you sorted on the scenic Black River. It’s basically the perfect way to soak up nature, get a little workout, and maybe pretend you’re an expert paddler (even if you’re really just trying not to tip over).

Swing by Vicki’s Veggies, a tiny farm with big personality. This award-winning spot is famous for growing over 100 varieties of heirloom tomatoes (yes, seriously. Pop into their adorable restored post office-turned-farm stand along the South Shore and pick up some fresh produce that’ll make your kitchen sing. Bonus fact: Vicki Emlaw is an eighth-generation farmer, so you know this is the real deal.

If you want to feel good about where your food comes from, Paper Kite Farm is doing things right. This small family farm is all about regenerating the land, adding biodiversity, and giving back to Mother Earth on the traditional territories of the Anishnaabeg, Wendat, and Haudenosaunee Peoples. Think of it as farm life with a conscience, where every bite supports the planet. They also host a day camp for kids, run hands-on workshops for all ages, and offer delicious homemade dumplings in their on-site farm store — just one more reason to swing by and see what they’re all about.

The Schoolhouse Restaurant at Jacksons Falls County Inn is the place to be. Open for breakfast and lunch Friday through Sunday, they serve up tasty, cozy meals from 9 am to 2 pm, plus an all-day menu on Friday and Saturday evenings (4 pm to 8 pm). Perfect spot to refuel after a day of paddling and produce shopping.

Tucked away in the quiet village of Milford, PECish Bakery is a local favourite serving up fresh-baked breads, flaky pastries, and small-town hospitality. Start your day here with a warm coffee and a loaf of their signature sourdough, then browse the display for sweet and savoury treats to pack along for your South Marysburgh adventure. Whether it’s a buttery croissant or a seasonal tart, PECish makes the perfect first stop.

Housed in a beautifully preserved 1860s Methodist church, the Mount Tabor Community Playhouse is one of South Marysburgh’s best-kept cultural secrets. This intimate, community-run venue brings the arts to life through a rotating schedule of local theatre productions, indie film screenings, concerts, and storytelling events, all infused with small-town charm.

Inside, you’ll find creaky pews, stained glass windows, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes every show feel personal. Whether you're catching a comedy, a musical with local talent, or a heartfelt drama, Mount Tabor offers a glimpse into the creative heartbeat of the ward and the people who keep it thriving.

It’s the perfect place to end your day in South Marysburgh: grab a bite in Milford, then settle into your seat at Mount Tabor and experience The County’s artistic spirit in its most authentic form. Be sure to check the schedule in advance, you never know what hidden gem might be taking the stage next.

A journey through South Marysburgh reminds us why these quieter corners matter. It's in places like Milford, Black River, and along Lighthall Road that the true spirit of The County reveals itself, rooted in tradition, alive with creativity, and quietly evolving with each new generation. 

Tucked away in a rustic barn in The County, you’ll find L’Atelier du Presbytère—a dreamy little slice of France run by the duo, Françoise and Thierry.

Step inside their boutique and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported straight to the South of France. We’re talking perfectly crinkled linen dresses, soft neutral tones, and curated French finds like handmade pottery, delicate glassware, and charming objets you didn’t know you needed until now.

Mariners Park Museum dives deep into how locals have made a living off the water for centuries. From fishing and shipbuilding to ice harvesting and even a bit of rum running (shhh!). Oh, and don’t miss the lighthouse that was moved all the way from False Duck Island beckons visitors to the site. Plus, you can check out Fort Kente and maybe squeeze in a picnic in the park. Fun fact: the waters around here hide hundreds of shipwrecks, and the museum’s treasure trove features artifacts pulled from some of those early diving adventures. 

Bird lovers and nature fans should head to Prince Edward Point National Wildlife Area. This spot is like a bird migration highway with over 330 species making pit stops, from songbirds to owls and hawks. It’s also a hangout for migrating bats and monarch butterflies, so basically, it’s the ultimate nature hotspot. Just remember to stick to the trails and bring your camera.

Sip back and relax. Wine lovers can pop into Exultet Estates, a cozy, family-run winery set in an old 1875 cheese factory in Milford. Their focus? Elegant Pinot Noir and Chardonnay that capture the essence of the lands. Bonus points for their estate-grown icewine, ports, rosé, and even apple wines made from 100% County apples. 

This off-the-grid winery might be small, but it’s overflowing with character — and flavour. Lighthall Vineyards is one of the only wineries in the region powered entirely by solar energy, and their low-intervention approach to winemaking puts the spotlight on the unique terroir of South Marysburgh’s limestone-rich soil. Their wines, particularly the sparkling and aromatic whites, are crisp, complex, and deeply expressive of the land they come from. But!! Wine is only part of the story here. Lighthall is also home to its own artisanal creamery, producing small batches of sheep’s milk cheese that are just as thoughtfully crafted as their wine. During your visit, enjoy a tasting experience in their rural, unpretentious setting often guided by the winemaker himself and be sure to try a seasonal pairing flight that brings their two passions together.

It’s this blend of sustainability, craftsmanship, and hospitality that makes Lighthall not just a winery, but a genuine reflection of the creative spirit of South Marysburgh.