Canada's insider blog

A few turns on Princess and Bath Streets in Kingston, and a 20-minute drive down Highway 33 later, we were on the Glenora Ferry, a small vessel that was our shepard to discovering the ever-quaint area of Prince Edward County.  A playground for foodies, artists and nature lovers, we were instantly charmed by the country way of life.

Kathy Kennedy, the director of “Taste the County,” a local destination marketing organization, met us at the gorgeous Lake on the Mountain Provincial Park.  The lake is a mystery, since scientists can’t figure out where the source of the water originates.  How did it get up there?

Staying in the town of Picton, a community that displays the influences of the Loyalists makes you feel like you're a pioneer discovering a new frontier.  The homes, B&Bs and stores take you back to a slower time – no cell phones, lattes on the run and Wi-Fi issues to consider.   It’s refreshing.

Summer sampling Picton and the county is the ultimate getaway.  Happy Trails!

Where to Stay: The Waring House.  It’s an Inn, a cookery school, a restaurant and a conference centre.  A rural gem in the town of Picton, the sprawling-yet-quaint premises give you a taste of living in the 1860s.

Where to Drink Coffee: The Bean Counter Café is the heartbeat of the city. 

What to Do:  Not in the mood to sample the trails on your own?  Then book a specialty tour with Sandbanks Vacations.  A guided tour bus takes you from sampling to more sampling.  Make sure to visit Prince Edward County Lavender and the only Off-Grid, solar powered winery in Canada, the Red Tail Vineyards. Organic is in.

Where to Eat:  For something a little less country, and a bit more “rock-and-roll,” go to Blumen.  Melissa Stoltz and Andy Feller are the innovators behind on-trend dishes that are served slow and easy in a contemporary setting.  (We didn’t have room, but the chocolate mousse cake looked divine.)