Your not so Faraway, Getaway! 

We have seen epic vacation posts and some of have had the opportunity to embark on dream vacations and others have opted to keep it local. Either way, we are all in the same boat when we say we want summer to last forever. So to make the most of the last days of summer, there is still a chance to getaway without going too far. If you're looking for local travel inspiration, then you may want to head to Prince Edward County, which was just named among the top ten places to visit in Canada in 2023. It’s located on the eastern shores of Lake Ontario, this island community boasts small towns, wineries, beaches, and more. (The Olve's favourite places to frequent) 

Favourite thing about this spot:  Prince Edward County is an island - - which spans almost 1000 km. The shoreline varies from soft beaches to high rocky bluffs. Its also known for having a similar terroir o Burgundy, which is what produces those fabulous pinot noirs and chardonnays. 

Notable places to nosh: Drake Devonshire unforgettable experience that you will want to repeat. If you’re feeling a little bit of wanderlust, head over to La Condesa for a taste of authentic Mexican plates. Its not only delicious but boasts a chic vibe. Koenji Whiskey bar  specializing in all things whisky and serving up homage to Japanese eats. If you head out to Picton, check out Bocado, Spanish food, and regional wines – its never the same and always delicious. The Vic’s Drive In were fresh meets fun! It’s a classic drive-in diner, minus the roller skates, its colourful and delicious! Stop by the Royal Hotel either for drinks or to eat. 

Where to shop: Downtown Picton is a cute place to explore. There are tons of local boutiques and quaint cafes to enjoy, as well as historic vibes.
 
Beaches, Breweries and Wineries: the county is Ontario’s fastest growing wine region and has new breweries and wineries popping up every season.

Our suggestion is to book a wine tour in advance and check out some of the local favourites like Grange, Huff Estates, Rosehall Run Vineyards, Redtail Vineyard, Stanners Vineyard, Sugarbush Vineyards, Harwood Estates, Broken Stone, Hillier Creek, Casa Dea Estates Winery, Sandbanks Winery and Keint-He Winery. For Insta-worthy pic, we would highly recommend going to the Grange, a mother-daughter run winery set on beautiful rolling hills & vineyards, in your plans. For breweries check out Parson Brewing, Lake on the Mountain Brewing or Gillingham Brewing company. 

Beach wise, one of the most popular places to visit in the county is Sandbanks Provincial Park. This spot features the "world's largest baymouth barrier dune formation" as well as three white-sand beaches to enjoy.  You can visit this Caribbean-like paradise without even leaving the province. This dreamy spot has everything you need to enjoy the warm weather to the fullest.

Hidden Gems in PEC: Once you sip the day away at a variety of wineries, head to the iconic, classically retro drive-in theatre called Mustangs Drive-IN  for a movie beneath the stars experience. Or go vintage shopping and find beautiful unique and curated pieces to add to any space.  We love Dead People’s Stuff, MacCool’s RE-Use and Stowaway vintage. Finally, if your up for a little drive, visit the Dahlia May Flower Farm, its small red bar that sells beautifully packaged flowers all summer long. 

Be sure to soak up what you can of summer- before you know it, we will be writing about the snow and cold! 


At the OLVE,  we independently select and write about stuff we love and think you'll like too. We are not affiliated nor do we have an advertising partnerships with the brands we may feature. 


 Photo credit: The OLVE