The County (as it is referred to locally) is situated in southeastern Ontario, Canada and offers travellers a unique blend of country and sophistication in a laid- back and affordable setting. With a vibrant arts community, over 40 wineries, countless craft breweries and cideries, a stellar choice of eateries, and phenomenal beaches, this hotspot destination continues to grow in popularity.
There are over 40 wineries throughout The County. They range from large sophisticated vineyards to quaint family run operations.
At NORMAN HARDIE, a popular spot for lunch while touring, you can enjoy wood-fired pizzas and award winning wines with a stunning view of the vineyard. The vines and oak barrels were brought in from France, giving their wine a European touch. These wines are probably the most famous outside The County.
Known for hosting some of the best events in The County, SANDBANKS WINERY is a popular hang out. With its colourful Muskoka chairs, outdoor gazebos, and live music, the atmosphere is perfect for an afternoon of wine tasting. They also offer a daily tour of the winery at 10 AM during the summer, so get there early.
Of course, we’d be remiss not to mention LONG DOG VINEYARD & WINERY located just 7 kms/4 mi (an 8 minute drive) from The County School House. This 20 acre vineyeard offers stellar Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris and Gamays. It is friendly, quaint and quirky, just the way we like it.
For a full list of wineries, visit the PRINCE EDWARD COUNTY WINEGROWERS ASSOCIATION where you can plan your perfect wine tour with their handy interactive trip planner.
One thing is for sure, you’ll never go hungry in The County! From roadside farm stands selling local produce and fresh eggs, to the many amazing restaurants scattered throughout, there is something to satisfy every palette.
For a comfortable breakfast or convenient lunch, visit BAILEY’S CASUAL DINING just an 11 minute drive up towards Picton from the house. A family run business loved by locals, they serve breakfast and lunch all day everyday, year round.
For a truly fabulous meal, treat yourself to dinner at FLAME + SMITH in Bloomfield. It’s a sustainably-minded restaurant that embraces the exciting art of woodfire cooking and supporting the community that surrounds it. From Berkshire Pork Chops to Cauliflower Steak, they have something for everyone.
If you want a divine winery meal, visit WAUPOOS WINERY. Their farm to table philosophy makes for some mouth watering meals. And the view is incredible!
During the summer months check out THE SAND AND PEARL near Sandbanks Beach. They have a fabulous seafood and fish menu, plus a burger for the non-fish lovers in your group. A casual hotspot all summer long you can sit inside the restaurant or opt for the picnic tables outside in the backyard. This family and dog friendly outdoor space has toys for the kids and offers nightly campfires, weekend yoga, and live entertainment.
Local and farm fresh is a mantra in The County. You don’t have to travel far to find amazing treats.
Just 600 meters down the road from the house is HONEY PIE HONEY AND HERBALS. They produce their own honey, herbs, dyed wools, soaps and other honey and herb inspired products.
FIFTH TOWN ARTISAN CHEESE is an award winning local cheese company. Try one of their International Cheese Award winners: Buffalina, Cape Vessey, Truffalo, Where the Buffalos Roam and Lemon Fetish.
For incredibly fresh produce, stop by one of the many County vegetable stands that dot the landscape. LAUNDRY FARMS is one of the closest, located on County Road 1, just outside Picton.
From May to October check out the many farmers markets throughout the region. One of the best is the WELLINGTON MARKET.
For a feast for the senses, visit PRINCE EDWARD COUNTY LAVENDER a local lavender farm offering a multitude of lavender and herb derived products including teas, lotions, oils and more. For peak flowering, go late June throughout July.
The County is all about exploring a variety of experiences, sights and flavours. This encompasses sampling the breadth of craft beers and ciders on offer.
First up is one of our favourites, COUNTY CIDER COMPANY, just down the road from Waupoos Winery in Waupoos. They have some amazing ciders including their signature Waupoos Cider plus Apple, Pear, Blood Orange, Peach and more. If you can, take the time to grab a bite on their patio overlooking the surrounding land and Lake Ontario. Just beautiful.
555 BREWING COMPANY is conveniently located in downtown Picton. Choose from lager, ale, pilsner and more, all on tap to enjoy any time. They have great wood-fired pizza to go along with that beer, so enjoy!
PARSONS BREWING COMPANY is another local favourite offering an amazing selection in a farm fresh environment. They too have a great menu of things that pair well with beer, so go ahead and indulge a little.
For something really unique, check out KINSIP HOUSE OF FINE SPIRITS. Their quaint farm (chickens roam the yard) and distillery is home to some amazingly good spirits including their own vodka, gin, maple whisky, cassis liqueur and brandy. For an added touch bring home a bottle of their fabulous whisky barrel aged maple syrup. So good!
One of the biggest attractions in Prince Edward County has always been SANDBANKS PROVINCIAL PARK and its world renowned freshwater dunes and calm, clean water. A short 15 minute drive from the house, we provide our guests with a complimentary park pass.
Sandbanks has the largest baymouth sandbar separating freshwater in the world. Its soft sand beaches stretch for almost 4 km (3 miles). There is an area of the beach where you can bring your dog, a restaurant offering light lunches, hiking trails and plenty of parking.
This is a not to be missed destination!
Somehow both quirky and quaint, DEAD PEOPLE’S STUFF in Bloomfield has some pretty neat things. As does MACOOLS RE-USE on County Rd. 12.
For something a little closer to home, visit STOWAWAY VINTAGE in Cherry Valley. The barn is packed with cool finds.
Packed with everything from art and food to antiques, THE LOCAL STORE has it all and is one of the most interesting places to check out.. Their only stipulation is that it must be ‘from The County’. You can’t miss the big red barn on County Road 12.
The County School House is located 15 minutes south of Picton, in Prince Edward County, Ontario.
To check availability and book your stay, please visit airbnb or VRBO.
If you have any questions about the house, how to plan your stay, The County in general, or anything else, please contact us at thecountyschoolhouse@gmail.com
Prince Edward County License #ST-2020-0236
The County School House 