“There’s something truly magical about this place”

Wellington Rotary Beach in Prince Edward county during sunset. Photo by Arshia Kochar

By- Arshia Kochar 

Nestled within the picturesque landscapes of southeastern Ontario, Prince Edward County beckons travellers with its timeless allure and captivating beauty. As the sun casts its golden glow over the rolling hills and vineyards, and the gentle breeze carries the scent of blooming wildflowers, visitors find themselves immersed in a world where time seems to stand still—a world where every moment is infused with the magic of discovery.

Beauty is part of what makes the County special. But the connections to local traditions, history, and values that Prince Edward County offers make it an unforgettable experience for whoever visits. 

For Casey Blair, a seasoned traveler with a passion for history, Prince Edward County is a treasure trove of fascinating tales and hidden gems waiting to be uncovered.

“I find the history of Prince Edward County quite interesting,” he shared.

“From its Indigenous roots and its role in the Canadian history, this region has seen it all”. 

Among the historic landmarks that dot the landscape, Macaulay Heritage Park stands as a testament to the county’s rich heritage. As Blair wanders through the park, tracing the footsteps of those who came before him, he can’t help but feel a sense of admiration for the generations who shaped the destiny of this land.

For Samantha Deokie, a frequent visitor to Prince Edward County, the allure of the region lies not only in its history but also in its natural beauty.

“There’s something truly magical about this place,” she mused, her gaze sweeping across the tranquil waters of Lake Ontario.

Sandy beaches, vineyards, it is all so beautiful here.”, she said.

One of Samantha’s favorite spots to visit is Sandbanks Provincial Park, where the sand dunes stretch as far as the eye can see.

“There’s nothing quite like the feeling of walking on sand and breathing the fresh air,” she saod, a smile playing at the corners of her lips. As she dips her toes into the crystal-clear waters of Lake Ontario, Samantha feels a profound sense of happiness wash over her.

Samantha Deokie shares her picture from one of her go-to eating spots in the county

 Jamie Thompson, a self-proclaimed foodie with a penchant for adventure, it’s the food that makes the County special.

He says dining at the Drake Devonshire is an experience like no other.

“The ambiance here is unlike anything I’ve ever seen,” he said, his eyes widening in awe as he takes in the funky decor and panoramic views of the lake.

“And the food? It’s out of this world.” From farm-to-table cuisine crafted from locally sourced ingredients, and also their cocktails, they are just so good.”

Drake Devonshire at the time of sunset. Photo by Arshia Kochar

As the sun began to set and the lights of the Drake Devonshire twinkled in the distance, another visitor to Prince Edward County, Emily Chang, shared her own unforgettable dining experience.

“I’ll never forget the evening I spent at The Royal,” she recalled.

“It was a celebration of flavors, creativity, and community unlike anything I’ve ever experienced.”

Located in the heart of Picton, The Royal Hotel is a culinary gem known for its innovative menu and warm, inviting atmosphere. From the moment Emily stepped through the door, she knew she was in for a treat. “The ambiance was so cozy with its soft lighting and decor.”

As Emily browsed the menu, she was delighted to discover an array of options, each one more tempting than the last.

“I opted for the tasting menu, and because of that I was able to taste so many different dishes,” she explains, her mouth watering at the memory.

But it wasn’t just the food that made Emily’s evening at The Royal so special—it was the sense of community and connection that permeated every aspect of the experience. “Throughout the evening, I found myself having fun with my family and I also had a good chat about the dishes with the head chef” she recalls.

As the day draws to a close and the sun dips below the horizon, visitors to Prince Edward County find themselves drawn together by a shared sense of camaraderie and connection. Whether it’s swapping stories over a glass of wine at a local vineyard or browsing the artisanal wares at a bustling farmers’ market, there’s a palpable energy in the air.

For Sarah Skanes, a first-time visitor to Prince Edward County, the sense of community is what sets this region apart from other destinations she’s visited.

“From the moment I arrived, I felt like this place is something special,” she reflects, her voice tinged with emotion. “Whether it’s the local cafes or literally talking to a stranger on the beach, there’s something special as I mentioned before.”

As travelers bid farewell to Prince Edward County and make their way back to the hustle and bustle of everyday life, they carry with them memories that will last a lifetime. From the historic landmarks that tell the story of a bygone era to the natural wonders and the great food, this region leaves an incredible mark on all who venture within its borders.