Every year, my BFFs and I do a weekend getaway together. This year we’re going to Prince Edward County for the third year in a row. We love the towns, restaurants, wineries and countryside – it’s the perfect place for a mini-vacay with friends.
Someone asked me recently for recommendations for a girlfriend’s getaway in PEC, so I figured I would share my picks with all of you.
Full home accommodations (for groups):
The group I travel with is 6 women, so we’re more comfortable in a whole-home rental (as opposed to everyone staying in hotel rooms). Last year we rented this historic farmhouse in Quinte West, about 30 minutes north of Prince Edward County. The classic Canadiana decor is so fun, and we had a blast chilling by the pool with floaties. The large front porch has a hammock and lots of seating – perfect for spending afternoons chatting and drinking all the wonderful wine we purchased in the county.
This year we’ve rented this adorable farmhouse near Picton. No pool this year, but the hot tub more than makes up for it.
Hotels:
The Drake Devonshire is the place to be in Prince Edward County. Right in the heart of adorable Wellington, with its spectacular on-site restaurant, the Drake is fantastic. But it only has 13 or so rooms, so snagging a reservation can be tricky.
The June Motel is a great value option for groups. The owners took a mid-century motor lodge, right in the middle of wine country, and turned it into a hip, retro modern motel.
Bed and breakfasts:
For traditional bed and breakfast accommodation, the Edward and Thyme Again Gardens are both amazing options.
Where to eat and drink:
Me and my pals build our itinerary around mealtimes and wine tours. Everything else is just hang-out time. In the past, our favourite wineries to visit are Hinterland, Norman Hardie, and my personal fave, Rosehall Run (I buy their Hungry Point Sauvignon Blanc by the case). This year we’re looking to expand that list a bit – I’ll report again in June with an update.
A lot of the wineries have food options onsite. Our favourite so far is the pizza oven at Norman Hardie. They have a casual outdoor restaurant with wood-fired pizza, which pairs perfectly with a glass of wine and a view of the vineyards.
The restaurant at the Drake Devonshire Inn is fantastic, for dinner, lunch or weekend brunch. Make reservations though – it’s a hot spot. I love the breakfasts at Enid Grace cafe in Wellington. And ice cream from Slicker’s in Bloomfield or Picton is an absolute must.
There’s a fantastic Farmer’s Market in Wellington on Saturdays and Sundays. You can pick up farm fresh food and take it back to your accommodation for your own feast. Pair that with a bottle (or three) of local wine and you’re set. Seriously, is there anything better than good food, good wine, and time spent with friends?