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!
PIN THIS FOR LATER
Follow me on Instagram!
Looking for your next cozy girls’ getaway in Ontario? This one’s all rolling hills, waterfalls, beautiful lookouts, and wine with a view. ✨
Beaver Valley might just be one of Ontario’s best-kept secrets, and it’s perfect for a slow, scenic 24-hour escape. Think:
☕️ Morning coffee at The June Motel
🥾 A quick hike with big views
🍕 Local eats in Kimberley
💦 A waterfall stop that feels straight out of a fairytale
🍷 Laid-back wine tasting
🔥 And a retro riverside stay that ends with sauna steam and firepit chats
If you need a soft reset with your besties, this is your sign.
Save this itinerary and tag your crew. Where should we plan next? ⬇️
🇫🇷 La version française de ce texte se trouve dans les commentaires.
#BeaverValley #GirlsTripOntario #OntarioWeekendGetaway #ExploreOntario #HiddenGemsOntario #BeaverValleyItinerary
Just mountain sheep casually taking over the road like they own it.
No rush. No shame. No concept of traffic flow.
And honestly? I kind of respect it. 🐑✨
Still more polite than most city drivers, tbh.
Tag the friend who’d try to befriend one. 🐑😂
🇫🇷 La version française de ce texte se trouve dans les commentaires
#AlbertaAdventures #OnlyInCanada #MountainSheepMoment #RoadTripRealities #ExploreAlberta #travelfailsbutmakeitcute
Dreaming of a wine weekend in Prince Edward County? Here’s one perfect route that keeps the vibes high and the driving low. 🍷✨
All five stops are tucked around Closson Road, just minutes apart, which means more time for sipping, snacking, and soaking up those summer vineyard views.
🍇 Start your day at Closson Chase for a peaceful pour and the iconic purple barn moment.
🍸 Sneak in a quick gin tasting at Bare Bones (yes, it fits and it’s a fun break between glasses).
🥗 Grab lunch and a rosé at The Grange : picnic tables, rolling hills, and a menu that changes with the season.
🥂 Hit Hinterland for sparkling wine and that lazy backyard vibe.
🍷 And end at Karlo Estates, where it’s all about bold reds, rustic charm, and live music if you time it right.
This PEC wine route is easy, delicious, and has just the right amount of adventure.
Save it for your next girls’ trip, romantic weekend, or any excuse to visit the County.
Where’s your favorite Ontario wine stop? Drop it below 👇
🇫🇷 La version française de ce texte se trouve dans les commentaires
#PrinceEdwardCounty #PECWineRoute #OntarioWineries #ClossonRoad #OntarioWineCountry #exploreontario
Looking for dramatic cliffs, peaceful paddles, and a seriously scenic Ontario escape this summer? 🌊☀️
Bon Echo Provincial Park has it all : towering rocks, ancient Indigenous pictographs, lakeside hikes, and some of the most iconic canoe views in the province.
Located north of Kaladar, Bon Echo is perfect for a weekend getaway or a slow summer day trip (and yes, the sunsets hit extra hard here).
✨ Why visit Bon Echo this summer:
• Canoe or kayak beside Mazinaw Rock 🛶
• Hike the Clifftop Trail for epic views
• See 260+ Indigenous pictographs up close
• Camp overnight
• Bonus: it’s full of artist & poet history!
If you’re building your Ontario summer list, Bon Echo deserves a spot.
💾 Save this mini guide for your next hiking or paddling day!
Have you been? Drop your favorite Ontario park below! 👇
🇫🇷 La version française est dans les commentaires!
#BonEchoProvincialPark #OntarioParks #ExploreOntario #OntarioSummer #BestHikesOntario #CanoeOntario
Planning a beach day? Here are 6 Ontario beaches that belong on your summer bucket list! ☀️🏖️
From white sand to turquoise water, these spots feel like a mini escape, no passport required.
🌊 Sandbanks Provincial Park – Iconic dunes + clear water = summer perfection
🌅 Batchawana Bay Provincial Park – Calm, peaceful, and right on Lake Superior
👣 Sauble Beach – One of the longest freshwater beaches in the world
🌲 Pancake Bay Provincial Park – Gorgeous views and quiet, chill vibes
🌺 Southampton Beach – Dreamy sunsets and soft sand
🌴 Pinery Provincial Park – Dunes, trails, and beach day heaven
Save this if you’re planning a summer road trip or just dreaming of your next beach day.
Which one’s your fave? Or did I miss a hidden gem? ⬇️
🇫🇷 La version française de ce texte se trouve dans les commentaires.
#BestBeachesOntario #OntarioBeachGuide #SummerInOntario #ExploreOntario #OntarioRoadTrip
