Earned Media

Prince Edward County is putting its artists back in the spotlight with the 2026 relaunch of the Prince Edward County Arts Trail.

For many Torontonians, there’s no better weekend escape than a few leisurely days in Prince Edward County. The beloved destination has earned its reputation for exceptional wineries, destination-worthy restaurants, a thriving arts community and warm hospitality.

In its charming communities, including Picton, Bloomfield and Wellington, a serious creative streak is reflected in the food and drink scene, as well as vibrant summer festivals and events.

My family calls The County home, so I’ve spent the last decade or so building out my perfect Prince Edward weekend. Here are the best places to drink, eat, and stay when trekking through this glorious section of Canadian wine country.

While the region has a long history of agriculture, it’s all hit a fever-pitch over the last ten years when serious winemakers wised up to the region’s potential. Chardonnay shines here, Pinot Noir is well suited to the limestone bedrock and clay soils. Hotels, restaurants and bars followed and now, the County is one of the country’s buzziest destinations.

Part outdoor adventure, part culinary destination and part lesson in sustainable living, the small family-run farm is proving that three-and-a-half acres can grow something far bigger than vegetables.

Prince Edward Country – just about a two-hour drive east of Toronto – remains largely a Canadian secret. The vibe is both rural and trendy, small-batch and eclectic, with atmospheric historic barns, sandy beaches and quaint towns adding to the appeal.

When it comes to Prince Edward County, 2026 is when the world will catch up on what Canadians have known for years.

"This is food on the level you’d find in any big city but with no chip on its shoulder. These restaurateurs are warm, welcoming, inclusive, and inherently Canadian. And their restaurants are the kind of places where, after one visit, you’ll feel like family."

From far-flung islands and culinary hotspots to Europe’s second cities, these spots are top of our travel wishlist this year

Ontario’s Prince Edward County is the ultimate country escape, a vibrant haven of reinvention, passion projects, and the quintessential getaway.

Our road trip from Toronto to Montreal takes us right across the provinces of Ontario and Quebec. Glittering lakes, endless forests and lively towns await us. Take a seat in the passenger seat and join me on a journey full of contrasts.