A Weekend Getaway to Prince Edward County: Everything You Need to Know

If you live in Toronto long enough, someone will eventually tell you to “go to the County.” They’re talking about Prince Edward County — a patch of farmland and shoreline about two and a half hours east of the city that has quietly become the spot for wine, food, and low-key weekends.

It’s not flashy, but that’s the charm. Here’s how to actually do a weekend there without overthinking it.

Getting There

Most people drive. You hop on the 401 east, turn off near Belleville, and suddenly you’re surrounded by fields and barns instead of condos. On a Friday evening, it’s closer to three hours, but still doable after work.

If you don’t drive, it’s not impossible. VIA Rail takes you from Union to Belleville in about two hours. From there you’ll need a cab or rideshare (about 30 minutes) into Picton or Wellington. It’s not the smoothest option, but if your plan is to stay put in one town, it works. In summer, a few companies run shuttles from Toronto that do wine tours — also handy if you don’t want to be the designated driver.

Where to Stay

This is very much an Airbnb county. Farmhouses with wraparound porches, cabins tucked into the woods, and minimalist lofts in town — they’re all out there, and they book fast.

If you prefer hotels, Picton and Wellington both have small inns and boutique spots. The Drake Devonshire is the most “Toronto” of them, sitting right on the water in Wellington. If you want something quieter, look at smaller B&Bs — half the fun is chatting with the owners over breakfast.

Things to Do

Wine, obviously. There are more than 40 wineries scattered around. Don’t try to do them all. Pick a handful and take your time. Sandbanks is easygoing and welcoming, Norman Hardie has wood-fired pizza that people rave about, and Closson Chase looks like a postcard with its purple barn. Tastings usually run about $10–15.

Sandbanks beach. Yes, Ontario has beaches worth the hype. The sand is fine, the water’s shallow, and the dunes make it feel like you’re somewhere much farther away. Go early if it’s a weekend — parking fills up.

Wander the towns. Picton is the bigger one with antique shops, cafés, and a little movie theatre. Wellington is smaller but right on the lake, with good restaurants and a slower feel. Both are worth a stroll.

Food & Drink

The County punches way above its weight for food. A few favourites:

  • Drake Devonshire in Wellington for a splurge-y dinner or just cocktails at sunset.
  • County Canteen in Picton — craft beer and hearty pub food.
  • Slickers Ice Cream — get the apple pie flavour, it’s famous for a reason.
  • Parsons Brewing — laid-back, family-friendly, great patio.

Best Time to Go

Summer is the busiest — beaches, patios, and long winery days. Fall might be even better: the leaves turn, the air cools off, and it’s easier to book a place. Winter is very quiet, but cozy if you’re into fireplaces and slow mornings (just check which restaurants and wineries are open, since some close for the season).

Little Tips

  • Book your place early — months ahead if you’re eyeing July or October.
  • Don’t plan too much. Three wineries in a day is plenty.
  • Bring snacks and water if you’re hitting Sandbanks.
  • If you’re not driving, stick close to Picton or Wellington so you’re not stranded.

Prince Edward County isn’t a trip where you tick off a million attractions. It’s more about slowing down — sipping wine in the sun, wandering through towns that still feel like towns, and remembering what quiet sounds like. You’ll come back to Toronto on Sunday night wishing you had one more day.