and the perfect environment for roots to securely infiltrate and mature . The average monthly temperatures in the area are considered delightfully moderate for grapes and visitors alike .
For erstwhile visitors to the County , the first challenge soon becomes where to stay . Over the past few years , plenty of funky , unique and picturesque forms of lodging have arrived on the scene — the difficult part is finding any room at the inn . The white-hot appeal of the region means that demand outstrips supply on a regular basis . Friends of ours , visitors to the County for years , book the same charming B & B a full year in advance or risk plummeting to the bottom of the waiting list . ( You ’ ve been warned .)
Of course , the time of year plays a role here . In the heart of winter , you ’ re more likely to get away with a lastminute decision to visit . But in mid-summer ? No such luck . As the cooler weather starts to approach ? No dice . Even in early spring , when Ontario is often still in the grip of freezing temperatures , Prince Edward County is thick with weekend warriors .
In fact , one of the busiest months in the County is
March , when the region hosts its Maple Festival . No fewer than 12 different “ tapping establishments ” invite visitors to sample Canada ’ s national syrup in all its glory . The local restaurants incorporate maple into their creations , wines are exchanged for warm ciders or microbrews , and fitness fiends contemplate whether to cycle or to snowshoe .
If you do have the discipline to plan ahead , there will be rewards aplenty . If anything , there are even more charming B & Bs in historic homes now than there were 20 years ago . In Picton , the largest town in the County , the Manse Boutique Inn welcomes you with spectacular architecture from the early-1900s , tranquil gardens and a saltwater pool . Another delightful choice is Brown ’ s Manor , a heritage home from the same era , located about a kilometre away . Both homes will situate you close to Main Street with its boutiques , bookstores and vintage clothing stores . If you have the time , do yourself a favour and browse through Books & Company before hitting Slickers for arguably the best ice cream cone in the County . You ’ re welcome .
With the region emerging as a legitimate vacation destination , different types of accommodation have emerged
Photos clockwise from top left : courtesy of The County of Prince Edward ; courtesy of The County of Prince Edward ; Jenny Thompson ; courtesy of The County of Prince Edward ; courtesy of The County of Prince Edward six star magazine 15