When Did Everyone Move to Picton, Ontario?

Everyone I met in Picton, Ontario seemed to be on the run...from Toronto. Sol Korngold, the owner and general manager of The Royal Hotel? Used to code on Bay Street. The massage therapist there? A downtown transplant who packed up and moved east when her best friend left the country. Even Rachel McAdams—yes, that Rachel McAdams—a London, Ontario native now living in the big city, made a cameo in a local café. Toronto, it seems, is out. Picton is very much in.

But why Prince Edward County? Besides the obviously cheaper rent and lower density (5,000 residents compared to Toronto’s nearly 3 million), Picton is the picture of personality. It’s the crown jewel of Ontario’s coastal towns, where every one-way street comes with a side of Victorian charm. Main Street is dotted with impeccably curated boutiques, hidden treasures and shop owners who are a little too excited you walked in. The sidewalks carry traces of Sandbanks Provincial Park—bits of beach-day bliss that cling to your shoes. Toronto expats have brought their design chops too: The Royal Hotel is a local landmark and The Drake Devonshire is just 20 minutes down the road. Oh, and did we mention the wine? Vineyards stretch along the highway like it’s Napa North.

Below, we offer our editor-approved guide to Picton, Ontario. Because even if you’re not quite ready to trade your city skyline for wide-open skies, don’t be surprised if the County follows you home.

Where to Stay

The Royal Hotel

The descriptor “casual luxury” often feels like an oxymoron, especially in the world of hotels. But The Royal Hotel lives in the rare space where warmth and wealth collide.

The original building dates back 150 years. And while most of the original iconic Picton property was unusable, owner and general manager Sol Korngold was determined to honour its Victorian history in as many ways as he could—from replicating its original windows to sourcing antique silver trays for tea service. But while the hotel nods to the past, its design by Toronto studio Giannone Petricone Associates is firmly in the present, seemingly taking inspiration from the textural tones and playful colours of Copenhagen, with warm woods, buttery leathers and nostalgic hues permeating every square inch.

The result is an experience that’ll have you forgetting you’re in southern Ontario—and if you’re in the Royal Gala Suite, you may never want to leave your room. When you (eventually!) do, don’t be surprised to be greeted by a gaggle of locals, as the lobby has become a community watering hole of sorts, adding that untouchable warmth that makes The Royal Hotel so worth it.

Where to Shop

KC Closet and Province of Canada

Picton feels so quintessentially Canadian, so it’s only fitting to shop local while you’re there. Currently, Province of Canada has a vibrant pop-up catering to anyone looking for high-quality Prince Edward County merch. But if you want to explore multiple Canadian brands, check out the more romantic KC Closet, which features products from Hilary MacMillan, Brunette the Label and more.

Where to Eat

The Royal Hotel

How can a simple bowl of tomatoes and cheese taste so good? You’ll have to ask The Royal Hotel’s executive chef, Albert Ponzo—formerly of Toronto’s iconic Le Select Bistro—who curated the freshest tasting menu I’ve ever had. The 7-course (!!) adventure will test the limit of your waistband, but it’s well worth it to indulge in local seafood, a tomato and stracciatella salad, pesto gnocchi, haskap berry meringue and so much more. Add in the ambiance of the outdoor patio, string lights and friendly staff, and you’ll already be booking your next reservation.

Where to Unwind

Noble Beast Farms

Self-care looks a little different to everyone. For many, it’s luxuriating at a spa—and in Picton, there are plenty to choose from, including a great one at The Royal Hotel. But for something meant to make you smile instead of work on your smile lines, head to Noble Beast Farms for an alpaca tour. Owners Nadia and Paul practically pulse with enthusiasm and love for their animals as they take you around the property for a meet and greet. If you’re lucky, you’ll even get a chance to feed the younglings and pose for a photo op. Relaxation at its finest.

Where to Caffeinate

Beacon Bike + Brew

While you’re pedalling through Prince Edward County, why not stop for coffee and a tune-up at the same time? Bursting with personality and colour, Beacon Bike + Brew offers a variety of beverages and unfussy eats, while also catering to your cycling needs. You can peruse artisanally crafted coffees and local wines, while browsing through unique bike items. Plus, there’s a mechanic on call who can get you back on the road once you’ve refuelled.