The County Life Blog

Bare Bones Distillery blends East Coast hospitality with a Prince Edward County twist. A seriously inviting cocktail experience, Bare Bones is about casual simplicity, connection and making a pure product that is winning fans across the region.

Whether it’s your first time in The County or your fiftieth, wine tasting here is always full of surprises. From the first swirl to the last sip, every bottle tells a story and every stop offers a moment to slow down, soak it all in, and maybe discover your new favourite wine.

Golden leaves, cool breezes, quiet trails, and scenic rides — Fall is outdoor adventure season in The County. Whether you’re paddling, hiking, cycling, or birdwatching, it’s time to get outside and soak in those crisp autumn vibes.

Crunchy leaves? Check. Cider in hand? Check. Art, music, quirky festivals, and community vibes? Double check. Fall in The County means culture and fun wrapped up in a cozy autumn blanket.

Fresh produce, cozy markets, caramel apples, and charming local shops full of unique finds — Fall shopping in The County is a harvest-lover’s dream come true. Ready to fill your tote bags with the season’s best?

Hungry? You will be. From fresh-picked farm feasts to cozy vineyard pours and cider flights that taste like sweater weather, The County’s harvest season is pure deliciousness. Time to treat your taste buds to autumn’s finest.

Dune Hopper Brewing Co. in Prince Edward County is turning heads for all the right reasons. Co-founder and Brewmaster Colin was recently awarded a Canadian Brewers’ Choice Award for Brewer of the Year 2024 in Ottawa. Their branding has also earned accolades, and their taproom remains a popular spot all year round.

Located on the west side of Bloomfield in Prince Edward County, this restored Victorian estate doesn’t follow a formula. Built in 1869 as the Hubbs family home, it has lived many lives. It was once a boarding house, a French restaurant, and a roadside motel. Today, it is a creative escape where every corner tells a story.

If you’re looking to explore the best that burgeoning Prince Edward County has to offer, here’s how.

Pedal along shorelines, through farmland, and into historic towns, all while enjoying bike-friendly businesses that offer rentals, repairs, and a warm County welcome

Looking for a wallet-friendly alternative to the East End of Long Island this summer — why not try the South End of Ontario?

Dune Hopper Brewing Co. in Prince Edward County is turning heads for all the right reasons. Co-founder and Brewmaster Colin was recently awarded a Canadian Brewers’ Choice Award for Brewer of the Year 2024 in Ottawa.

We hope you enjoy this guide to a fun, family-friendly first half of summer in beautiful Prince Edward County.

This quiet ward offers an authentic slice of Prince Edward County — slow, soulful, and full of surprises.

Take the scenic route to North Marysburgh for lake views that steal your breath, spicy handcrafted mustard, fresh farm markets, and quiet lookouts where time slows down just for you.

Step into Sophiasburgh’s peaceful farmland and bay views, meet friendly alpacas, savour award-winning wines, and explore wild herbs with local experts. 

Sip quiet village coffee, explore heritage museums, and discover hidden gems from farm stands to ostrich farms.

Sun, sand, and serene nature trails await in Athol. Home to Sandbanks Park, buzzing farm stands, cozy local shops, and a lively dancehall that keeps The County’s summer nights alive.

Think the East End of the 1960s or ’70s, an artsy enclave where the main appeal is vineyards, crafts breweries and high-end thrift stores.

Ontario’s queer-friendly Prince Edward County and Toronto Pride have this lesbian writer considering a move north of the border.

This blog is your go-to guide for Summer things to do in Prince Edward County—packed with ways to make the most of the sunshine, the scenery, and the season.

So you wanna Visit The County? Read this first.

Prince Edward County has long been celebrated for its stunning landscapes and small towns. But behind the postcard-perfect views and charm lies a growing movement rooted in sustainability, land stewardship, and community care.

Just a hop, skip, and sunhat away from its big sibling Sandbanks, North Beach is no hidden gem—it fills up fast in the summer. So if you're dreaming of that perfect towel-to-toes moment, it pays to plan ahead. Ready to beach like a pro? Here’s everything you need to know for a smooth, sandy day in the sun.

With over 700,000 sun-chasers flocking in each year, Sandbanks Provincial Park can hit full capacity faster than you can say “sunscreen.” Here are some handy tips to keep your beach day blissfully stress free.

The County is brimming with budget-friendly and even free activities that will make your visit unforgettable.

Looking for ways to keep the whole family entertained? PEC has you covered with activities and adventures for all ages.

Looking for ways to keep the whole family entertained? PEC has you covered with activities and adventures for all ages.

Spirit-making is deeply ingrained at Stillus Craft Spirits, drawing from Ukrainian roots as a benchmark for crafting high-quality, natural spirits. 

This family-owned, artisan distillery is located near Bloomfield, Prince Edward County, and has been gaining attention for its craftsmanship, which focuses on creating premium spirits that make for a meaningful drinking experience.

Born from a desire to showcase the region’s talented chefs and locally sourced ingredients, Countylicious has evolved from a small initiative into a highly anticipated event that reinforces Prince Edward County’s reputation as a premier food destination.

Owners Laura Borutski and Elliot Reynolds feel like they’ve come back home.

The Grange of Prince Edward launches a full service French Country restaurant just in time for Countylicious

County Food Hub offers plant-based cooking classes for Countylicious

There's a lot that is new about this Spring’s Countylicious — new participants mean the highest ever number of venues, 26 — and a couple of old hands have been transformed.

If you’re a foodie looking for an unforgettable culinary escape, spring is the perfect time to visit Prince Edward County. As the region awakens from winter, its farm-to-table restaurants, wineries, and charming towns offer the perfect backdrop for a delicious getaway. 

Stunning flavours melt into satisfying palate pleasers on curated menus from the very professionals who make the food.

The folks at Three Dog Winery are passionate about fine wines and good times - and they are curating both at their acclaimed winery near Picton. Aiming to trade the pretentious for the inviting, Three Dog Winery is delivering on making award-winning wine while fostering a love of vintages old and new.

Are you an aspiring artist or looking for a fresh way to experience the region then this guide will take you through some of the best art and culture experiences waiting to be discovered.

The warm weather may be behind us, but these two regions in South Eastern Ontario are chock-full of things to do for families this winter. From cool happenings to outdoor fun and great bites, we’ve got an itinerary that’ll show you the best of everything that the Bay of Quinte and Prince Edward County has to offer you and your family.  

From lakeside escapes to immersive wellness workshops, or spending time with the animals, this guide highlights some of the best wellness-focused spots in the region—perfect for planning your next getaway.

Winter in Prince Edward County is a whole new vibe. The pace slows, the crowds thin, and a peaceful stillness settles in, offering a refreshing escape from the hustle of summer. It’s quieter, it’s cozier, and it’s unforgettable.

Located in the beautiful landscapes of Prince Edward County along the shores of the Bay of Quinte, Picton stands as an inviting town, enticing tourists with its storied past, lively culture, and scenic allure. As visitors explore this delightful town, they’ll find activities that ensure a memorable stay.

Located at 66 Gilead Road in Bloomfield, Kinsip is unique on the distilling scene. Maria and Michael pride themselves on being an estate distillery, which means they grow the grain for their spirits on their 80-acre farm, in The County.

With its Victorian architecture, luxurious accommodations, and commitment to exceptional service, Merrill House offers an unforgettable experience for those seeking a blend of elegance and comfort in their getaway.

This isn’t your regular travel list: it’s one that is all about fun and friendship. So grab your besties or venture out solo and live life to fullest

This enchanting region, just a stone’s throw from Toronto, is rapidly becoming a mecca for food enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

The region is full of ways to take part in Transformative Travel –  grow, learn and stretch your travel wings in new ways.

Known for its wineries, artisanal cheese, and farm-to-table restaurants, Prince Edward County is a top destination for food lovers.`

Snow Owl Retreat offers sweeping vistas of Lake Ontario from its cliffside perch above Adolphus Reach and the Glenora Ferry. Whether you’re here for a romantic weekend, a family adventure, or some solo downtime, this place has it all.

When you’re looking to give a gift with extra heart, look no further than our list! Share a piece of Prince Edward County with loved ones this season by exploring unique, locally-made gifts. Happy shopping, and thank you for choosing local!