Located about two hours east of Toronto, three hours from Ottawa, and four hours from Montreal, PEC makes the perfect destination for a spring getaway. Whether you’re planning a weekend with friends, a couples trip, or a family escape, spring offers the perfect balance of quiet charm and fresh seasonal experiences.

If you’re planning a visit this spring, here are five must-do experiences to add to your itinerary.

1. Explore The County’s Wine Scene

Spring is a great time to explore the wineries of Prince Edward County. The region’s cool climate, limestone-rich soils, and unique terroir produce exceptional cool-climate wines, particularly Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Riesling.

Many County wineries are small, family-run operations where winemaking is truly hands-on. Visitors can enjoy tastings, meet passionate producers, and experience the unique personality of each vineyard.

Some popular stops include Three Dog Winery, Traynor Family Vineyard, and Lighthall Vineyards, where guests can enjoy wine tastings along with beautiful vineyard views.

Exploring multiple wineries in a day is one of the best ways to experience The County’s wine scene — and that’s where we come in! Our guided wine tours make it easy to visit several wineries while learning about the region’s vineyards and winemaking along the way. Plus, you can relax and enjoy the tastings without worrying about driving. To learn more about our tour options and availability, please visit our website. 

→ Local Tip: Looking for something a bit different? Stop by Decanter PEC, a cozy wine bar in the heart of Wellington that pours a great selection of local wines. 

2. Discover Breweries, Cideries, and Distilleries

While wine is a major draw, The County’s craft beverage scene has grown tremendously in recent years. From local breweries and distilleries to cideries, there’s something for every taste — and plenty of new spots that have become favourites in recent years!

Brewery: Matron Fine Beer
Known for its creative brews and cozy, inviting atmosphere, Matron is a must-visit for beer lovers. Their spacious patio is perfect for a sunny spring afternoon, and with their seasonal food vendor, Poke Blossom, it’s the ideal spot to enjoy a bite alongside a refreshing brew!

Distillery: Wild Lot Farm Distillery
This innovative distillery specializes in cocktails crafted with local ingredients. Visitors can enjoy tastings, learn about the distilling process, and sip their way through unique creations in a relaxed farm setting.

Cider: County Cider Co.
If cider is more your style, County Cider Co. is a must-visit. Their crisp, refreshing ciders, paired with stunning lake views, make for the perfect sunny spring afternoon.

Whether you’re a beer fan, cocktail connoisseur, or cider lover, taking the time to explore these local craft beverages adds a whole new layer to your spring visit.

3. Explore The County Outdoors

Outdoor experiences are a big part of what makes Prince Edward County special in any season.

Of course, the iconic Sandbanks Provincial Park remains a must-visit for its famous sand dunes, beaches, and hiking trails. Spring offers a quieter, more peaceful experience — perfect for long walks, birdwatching, and exploring the park’s unique landscapes.

But The County has so much more to offer beyond Sandbanks. Stop by Base31, a revitalized historic military base that hosts seasonal markets, concerts, art installations, and community events throughout the year.

For a more active adventure, rent a bike from Ideal Bike Wellington and casually explore The County’s charming towns, scenic vineyards, and quiet country roads. Other great outdoor spots include Macaulay Conservation Area and the Beaver Meadow Trail, which both offer beautiful trails for hiking and nature walks.

Spring also brings outdoor events, artisan markets, and community gatherings, making it the perfect season to enjoy PEC’s natural beauty and vibrant local culture.

4. Spend an Afternoon Exploring The County’s Main Towns

One of the best ways to experience the charm of Prince Edward County is by wandering through its three main towns: Bloomfield, Wellington, and Picton.

Each community has its own personality, and spring is the perfect time to explore their walkable main streets before the busy summer crowds arrive.

Bloomfield is known for its beautifully restored historic buildings and thriving collection of boutique shops. Visitors can spend hours browsing local fashion, home décor, independent book stores, and more — all on one main street.

Just a short drive away, Wellington offers a relaxed lakeside atmosphere with plenty of independent shops, cafés, and wine bars. It’s also a great place to take a stroll along the waterfront or stop for lunch on a patio once the spring weather warms up.

In Picton, the largest town in The County, you’ll find a lively mix of restaurants, galleries, bookstores, and locally owned boutiques. Picton’s Main Street is a great place to spend an afternoon exploring shops, grabbing a coffee, or discovering local art.

Together, these three towns capture the creative and entrepreneurial spirit of The County — and browsing the unique shops is one of the most enjoyable ways to experience the local culture.

→ Local Tip: Plan to visit all three towns during your stay — they’re only about 10–15 minutes apart, making it easy to explore them all in one afternoon.

5. Experience The County’s Incredible Food Scene

Over the past decade, Prince Edward County has become one of Ontario’s most exciting culinary destinations. From casual farm-to-table eateries to upscale dining rooms, The County’s food scene celebrates local ingredients, seasonal menus, and creative chefs.

Spring is an especially great time to explore the region’s restaurants as chefs begin introducing fresh seasonal dishes and patios slowly reopen after winter.

April also brings one of PEC’s most anticipated food events — Countylicious. This annual culinary celebration features special prix-fixe menus at participating restaurants across The County, giving visitors the opportunity to try some of the region’s best dining spots at a set price.

It’s a great way to experience a variety of local restaurants, discover new favourites, and enjoy menus inspired by ingredients from nearby farms, wineries, and producers.

→ Local Tip: If your visit overlaps with Countylicious, consider making a few reservations during your stay — many visitors turn it into their own mini “food tour” of PEC.

Plan Your Spring Getaway

Spring in Prince Edward County offers the perfect combination of relaxed exploration, beautiful scenery, and incredible local food and drink.

Whether you’re visiting for a quiet weekend escape, a wine tour with friends, or a cycling adventure through the countryside, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the season.

Enjoy your visit!