Discover winter in Prince Edward County! Explore cozy stays, wineries, and fun things to do in Prince Edward County in winter for a perfect getaway.
Prince Edward County is best known as one of Ontario’s go-to summer destinations, with its sandy beaches, vibrant wineries, and charming small towns. But what many people don’t realize is that Prince Edward County in winter is just as beautiful—if not more magical—in a completely different way.
When the crowds disappear, the County transforms into a peaceful winter escape, perfect for cozy getaways, scenic drives, and warming up with a glass of local wine by the fire. If you’ve already experienced Prince Edward County in the fall, or in the Summer, you’ll love seeing it blanketed in snow.
This guide covers the best things to do in Prince Edward County in winter, from exploring snowy trails to indulging in farm-to-table dining and discovering the coziest places to stay.
Read More // Not visiting in the Winter? I also have a guide on what to do in PEC in the Fall and in the Summer.
Winter in Prince Edward County: The Perfect Getaway Guide
How to Get to Prince Edward County
Prince Edward County is located in southeastern Ontario, nestled along the shores of Lake Ontario. Known for its scenic countryside, charming small towns, and thriving food and wine scene, it’s a favorite getaway destination for Ontarians and visitors alike.
Prince Edward County is best explored by car, as its wineries, restaurants, and attractions are spread out across several small towns and rural areas. For those visiting without a car, consider booking accommodations in Picton or Wellington, which are more walkable and central to many attractions.
Despite its rural charm, the County is conveniently accessible from several major cities, making it an ideal spot for a weekend escape or a longer retreat.
Getting to Prince Edward County
From Toronto (Approx. 2.5 Hours)
- By Car: Take Highway 401 East toward Belleville. Exit at Highway 49 (Exit 566) and follow signs to Picton, the heart of Prince Edward County.
- By Train: VIA Rail offers service to Belleville. From there, you can rent a car or take a taxi for the 30–40 minute drive into the County.
From Ottawa (Approx. 3 Hours)
- By Car: Take Highway 416 South to Highway 401 West. Exit at Highway 49 (Exit 566) and follow signs to Picton.
- By Train: VIA Rail connects Ottawa to Belleville. A car rental or taxi is needed to reach the County from Belleville.
From Montreal (Approx. 4 Hours)
- By Car: Take Highway 20 West, which becomes Highway 401 West in Ontario. Exit at Highway 49 (Exit 566) toward Picton.
- By Train: VIA Rail offers service from Montreal to Belleville, where car rentals and taxis are available.
Where to stay in Winter?
When planning a winter getaway in Prince Edward County, the Drake Devonshire in Wellington stands out as a top accommodation choice.
The Drake Devonshire’s building dates back to the 19th century, originally serving as an iron foundry in the 1860s. Over the years, it has transformed through various incarnations, including a stint as a private residence, before being meticulously restored and reopened by the Drake Hotel Properties in 2014. This thoughtful restoration blends historic charm with contemporary design, creating a unique and inviting atmosphere for guests
Why Stay at Drake Devonshire in Winter?
- Cozy Accommodations: With 13 uniquely designed rooms and suites, the inn offers a range of options from intimate spaces to expansive suites, each thoughtfully appointed to provide comfort during the winter months.
- Lakeside Views: Situated on the shores of Lake Ontario, guests can enjoy serene, snow-covered lake vistas, providing a tranquil backdrop for a winter retreat.
- Culinary Delights: The on-site restaurant features seasonal menus that showcase local ingredients, offering hearty and comforting dishes perfect for winter dining. The inventive cocktail program and selection of Prince Edward County wines enhance the dining experience.
- Art and Culture: The inn doubles as a cultural hub, featuring stunning art installations and hosting events that enrich the guest experience, even during the quieter winter season.
- Proximity to Winter Activities: Located in Wellington, the Drake Devonshire serves as an excellent base for exploring local wineries, breweries, and outdoor activities that are particularly enchanting in the winter landscape.
Looking ideas on where to stay in PEC? Check out my blog posts with all my favorite stays including the best trendy motel, unique airbnbs and lakeside houses.
THE DETAILS
Price | Starting at 300$ per night.
Reservations | Book your room here.
Winter in Prince Edward County: What to Do
Prince Edward County may be known as a summer hotspot, but it transforms into a peaceful winter wonderland when the snow falls. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cozy indoor experiences, or a bit of both, here are some must-do activities to make the most of winter in Prince Edward County.
See the Snow-Covered Dunes at Sandbanks Provincial Park
While Sandbanks Provincial Park is famous for its sandy beaches in the summer, its towering dunes are equally stunning when covered in snow. Take a peaceful walk along the frozen shoreline or explore the snow-covered trails for a completely different perspective of this iconic park. It’s a photographer’s dream and a perfect spot for a winter stroll.
THE DETAILS
Where | Find Sandbanks Provincial Park on Google Map here.
Price | 15.50$ per car for a day park permit.
Go Snowshoeing at Three Dog Winery
For a truly winter experience, head to Three Dog Winery for their guided snowshoe tours. Explore their 100-acre property, winding through vineyards, cedar and pine forests, and a sugar bush. The tour includes the snowshoe rental (or if you prefer you can bring yours), a warm-up stop around the fire at the sugar shark : this stop includes a wine tasting and a warm snack. Afterward, relax at the tasting bar with a glass of wine (not included in the price)
THE DETAILS
Where | Find Three Dog Winery on Google Map here.
Price | $40 per person. This includes snowshoe rental, a light lunch, two glasses of wine, and a guided tour.
When | Tours are available every Saturday from January 25th to March 1st, 2025, weather permitting. Arrive by 11:30 am for snowshoe fitting; the hike starts at noon and lasts about 1.5 hours
Visit Slake Brewing for Local Craft Beers
Beer lovers won’t want to miss Slake Brewing, perched on a hill with panoramic views of the County’s winter scenery. Their cozy taproom is the ideal spot to sip on craft beers brewed onsite, from crisp lagers to seasonal stouts. Slake Brewing Company, located in the small town of Picton in the heart of Prince Edward County, is known for its craft beers and breathtaking views. Set amidst lush farmland and rolling hills, the brewery offers one of the most stunning vistas in the region, creating a picturesque backdrop for enjoying a pint. Slake specializes in a diverse range of beers, including IPAs, stouts, and lagers, all crafted with a focus on quality and local ingredients.
THE DETAILS
Go Skating at Parsons Brewing Company
For a family-friendly activity, Parsons Brewing Company offers an outdoor skating rink that’s as charming as it is fun. After a few laps around the ice, warm up with a pint of their signature brews or sip on hot chocolate by the fire. It’s the perfect mix of winter fun and cozy comfort. Established in a picturesque rural setting, the brewery offers a diverse range of beers, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, all brewed on-site using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. Visitors can enjoy tastings in a rustic taproom or relax on the spacious outdoor patio, which overlooks the surrounding fields. With its focus on sustainability and local partnerships, Parson’s Brewing Company has become a beloved destination for both locals and tourists seeking to experience the county’s burgeoning craft beer scene.
THE DETAILS
Indulge in a Spa Day at Wander the Resort
For a relaxing winter retreat in Prince Edward County, treat yourself to a spa day at Wander The Resort in Bloomfield. Opening on January 18th, 2025, Wander The Spa is Ontario’s first lakefront Nordic spa, offering a serene escape surrounded by nature. Guests can experience thermotherapy by cycling through hot, cold, and rest stages, with access to a hot tub, cold plunge, steam room, and traditional Finnish sauna. For added relaxation, massages and Reiki treatments are available, along with Aufguss sauna rituals and a curated lounge menu.
THE DETAILS
Where to eat in Prince Edward County this Winter?
Bocado | Located in Picton, I’ve only heard amazing things about this Spanish tapas inspired restaurant.
Darlings | This Bloomfield restaurant was named one of Canada’s top restaurants in 2023. Try their Ceasar salad and their wood-oven pizzas!
Gather | This restaurant is located Wander the Resort in Wellington and is one of the best addresses in PEC.
Theia Wine Bar | Theia is a new addition to Picton’s food scene. I haven’t had the chance to try it yet but I hear great things.
Russ & Co | This cocktail bar has nailed the vintage vibe right on the head.
Read More // Read my full blog post about where to eat in Prince Edward County
READ MORE OF MY ONTARIO WINTER GUIDES HERE!
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✨ These trendy Ontario motels aren’t just Insta-famous, they actually live up to the hype.
From wine country escapes to lakeside slowdowns, here are 5 design-forward places to stay in Ontario that deliver on vibes and comfort:
🏩 The June Motel – Prince Edward County
The OG! Think wine country views, pink doors, and retro summer energy in PEC.
🌲 Somewhere Inn – Calabogie
A minimalist dream tucked between the mountains and the lake. Perfect for après-hike wine and no-alarm mornings.
🌊 The June Motel – Sauble Beach
Beachy, breezy, and very nostalgic in the best way. Just steps from Lake Huron.
🌾 The Beach Motel – Southampton
Light, airy, and super stylish. A grown-up coastal escape without the fuss.
🍂 The June Motel – Beaver Valley
The latest June gem, nestled in the hills. Fireplaces, forest views, and coffee ready on check-in.
✨ Save this post for your next Ontario getaway and tag someone you’d road trip with. Which one are you booking first?
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#OntarioMotels #PlacesToStayInOntario #WeekendGetawayOntario #TrendyMotels #ExploreOntario
🌊 Think Niagara Falls is just about the Falls? Not even close. 👇
Here are 3 unforgettable things to do in Niagara Falls, Ontario — beyond the big cascade:
1️⃣ White Water Walk — Walk right alongside the world’s wildest whitewater rapids. Nature is LOUD here 🌊
2️⃣ Whirlpool Aero Car — Soar high above the Niagara Gorge for panoramic views you won’t forget 🚡
3️⃣ Niagara Glen Nature Centre — Hike through ancient trails and discover a quieter side of Niagara 🌿
Planning a trip to Niagara Falls? Save this post, tag your travel buddy, and let me know which one you’re doing first 👇
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#NiagaraFalls #NiagaraFallsCanada #ExploreOntario #OntarioTravel #discoverontario
I knew Tuscany would be beautiful… but I didn’t expect to feel so enchanted by its smaller towns.
Here are four stops that completely stole the show on my trip:
1. San Gimignano
Known as the Manhattan of the Middle Ages (because of its towers), this hilltop town has views for days and some of the best gelato I’ve ever had. It’s busy, yes, but worth every step. Go early or stay late to see it glow in the golden hour.
2. Monteriggioni
This one feels like a secret. A perfectly preserved medieval village perched on a hill, surrounded by ancient stone walls. You can walk the ramparts, sip wine in the tiny square, and imagine what life looked like hundreds of years ago.
3. Siena
Florence’s historical rival, and a city with serious soul. The Piazza del Campo is stunning, but it’s the backstreets that really charmed me. Don’t skip the Duomo, it’s easily one of the most incredible churches I’ve ever seen.
4. Lucca
Soft light, quiet charm, and tree-lined walls you can walk or bike on. Lucca doesn’t try too hard, and that’s what makes it special. It’s a town for slow mornings and long lunches.
Swipe through to see a little glimpse of each.
And if you’ve ever been, tell me: which one stole your heart? ❤️
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#TuscanyTowns #TuscanyTravel #ItalyItinerary #SanGimignano #Monteriggioni #SienaItaly #LuccaTuscany #SlowTravel #ItalianEscape
7 ways to make your summer in the Thousand Islands not boring 🛶🍻🍎⛺️
If you’ve only driven past Gananoque on the 401… you’ve been seriously missing out. This region along the St. Lawrence River is packed with scenic views, cider tastings, and unforgettable outdoor adventures.
Here’s your non-boring summer to-do list in the 1000 Islands, Ontario:
1️⃣ Hike up to Landon Bay Lookout for one of the best views in the region
2️⃣ Sip local cider at the beautiful @buslcider
3️⃣ Climb the 1000 Islands Tower for a panoramic view of the islands
4️⃣ Try beer and wood-fired pizza at @arbrubeer
5️⃣ Paddle your way through the islands on a guided kayak tour
6️⃣ Take a scenic helicopter ride over the Thousand Islands 🚁
7️⃣ Spend the night in a Parks Canada O’Tentik tent, part cabin, part tent, fully cozy
This is your sign to explore the Thousand Islands this summer and turn a day trip into a full weekend escape.
Which one are you adding to your bucket list?👇
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#ThousandIslands #1000IslandsOntario #ExploreOntario #SummerInOntario #Gananoque #OntarioWeekendTrip #OntarioTravel #StLawrenceRiver #OutdoorAdventure #TravelOntario #ThingsToDoInOntario #OntarioGetaways
Sippin’ my way through Prince Edward County like it’s a full-time job 🍷🍸🍺
If you’re the type who plans your Ontario summer trip around what you can drink as much as what you can do… this one’s for you.
From award-winning wineries to farm-based distilleries and lakeside cideries, here’s your ultimate guide to raising a glass (or three) in Prince Edward County this summer:
📍 Bare Bones for small-batch gin
🍷 Karlo Estates for award winning wines in a charming barn
🥂 Hinterland for bubbles with a view
🍎 County Cider for that perfect patio moment
🍷 The Grange for elegant sips in a heritage setting
🍸 Wild Lot for cocktails in the middle of the countryside
🍺 Parson’s Brewing for chill vibes & beer flights
🍷 Closson Chase for iconic lavender-lined photos & Pinot
🍺 Slake Brewery for that sunset magic
🍸 BONUS: The Russ & Co for an elevated cocktail hour in downtown Picton
This is your summer drink-lover guide to Prince Edward County, Ontario — whether you’re into wine tasting, craft beer, or creative cocktails, there’s a pour waiting for you.
Tag your drinking buddy & start planning your County crawl 🥂
