Unique Luxury Getaway In Prince Edward County

A couple of weeks ago, my friends and I took a little trip to an island in Lake Ontario, Prince Edward County. This well-seasoned island is a cluster of small hamlets and villages that are thriving with food, nature, art and community. Farming and agriculture keep the island alive with trade through waterways and unique geological formations adorn the landscape of the 800km shoreline. The beaches of Prince Edward County have been welcoming guests for almost 200 years. The County is now home to artists, farmers, wine makers, chefs and entrepreneurs, all contributing their creative passions to the rural renaissance.

Prince Edward County Church

The major highlight of our trip was the breathtaking accommodation. We stayed at the iconic Prince Edward Country Church, a beautifully renovated 132-year-old church with a modern feel and old unique charm. The surreal church has a large communal area with soaring ceilings and a magnificent dining room table, perfect for dinners with the girls! The kitchen is equipped with all the modern amenities that we need today, such as a coffee maker, fridge, microwave and plenty of seating to enjoy your breakfast. The décor at this AirBNB is so modern and elegant, with elements of rustic charm, dating back to the 1800s. This stunning property is set on 3 acres of land, with breathtaking views, backing on to the Quinte Bay. The backyard offers open space and gorgeous trees, with a gorgeous firepit for those relaxing evenings by the water. We were extremely lucky to receive fresh eggs and bread every morning on our doorstep, from local farms. The fresh linens and towels and cleanliness of the property, really made us feel welcome and at home. It is definitely a memorable place to stay, and I will definitely be making a trip back with my family!

Wine Country

The surrounding areas of P.E.C. boast a variety of activities and places to see. From beautiful vineyards to tasty eateries and cafes, there is definitely something to excite the senses. We received an informative and captivating tour of the Norman Hardie Vineyard, situated on a clay limestone hill, offering a wine tasting bar and delicious wood fired pizzas. Norman Hardie Vineyard offers a awe-inspiring menu of mouthwatering food, including smoked fish and oysters, perfect for lunch. The private tours make the experience all the more enjoyable as you can see how the production of the delectable wines start and finish. Other wineries to visit in the area are Closson Chase Vineyards and The Grange Winery. The wine tour with The Local Tour Company is sublime! They offer a hassle-free, memorable tour in a VIP van, to four local wineries with a fun and knowledgeable tour guide, Mitch. This tour was so convenient for us girls as we were able to soak in all the fun without the stress of driving and knowing the area!

Merrill House

Merrill House is home to Executive Chef Michael Sullivan, where fine French cuisine is paired with some of the most exquisite wines the world has to offer. We visited Merrill House for a unique, unforgettable culinary experience. This charming boutique hotel is where modern technology and luxurious amenities are in every corner, while décor pays homage to the stately home’s history with fine antiques and artefacts. The enchanting boutique hotel is definitely where I would love to stay at next!

With so much to do and only a 3-hour drive from Downtown Ottawa, Prince Edward County is the perfect place for a mini vacation and will definitely steal your heart like it did ours!