What was once Southern Ontario’s best-kept secret getaway hotspot, Prince Edward County, has blossomed into one of the foremost destinations in all of Canada over the last decade. With visitors looking to embrace the evergrowing food and adult beverage culture, PEC has become THE place to go for a unique sensory experience. From the endless wineries to unique microbreweries, little cideries to daring new distilleries, the little island in lake Ontario is an oasis of flavour. Every year more and more world-class chefs are cooking at world-class restaurants all with an eye to creating something deliciously unforgettable. What were once little towns on the island have become bustling hubs, growing to keep up with the influx of visitors. FromWellington to the town of Picton people can’t seem to get enough of the County’s endless charm. All of this has culminated in the recent opening of the historic landmark, and super cool Royal Hotel located front and centre on the main street in Picton. 

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Originally opened in 1879, the team at The Royal has spent over seven years restoring and rebuilding from the ground up. Using the original bones of the structure and building an elegant modern hotel full of all the necessities one needs, plus some extras. Designed by Giannone Petricone Associates, The Royal expertly blends old and new, historic and modern effortlessly. Keeping the exterior facade as close to the original design as possible, while the interior is modern, light and functional. The Royal is technically situated in two neighbouring buildings with the main Hotel featuring 28 rooms of various sizes, and three additional Scandinavian-inspired studios designed for extended stays located off the main street in The Annex. Each room type is named after an Ontario heritage apple variety – Cortland, Empire, Russet and Royal Gala – a cute little nod to the region’s many orchards.

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The property also includes a swimming pool, a full-service spa, a roomy gym with weights and room for cardio, a spacious sauna, two restaurants and a cafe. Since the hotel is located in the lush growing region of The County, most of the food is farm-to-table. Executive Chef Albert Ponzo has sourced ingredients that are ethically and sustainably produced, with a focus on using the best seasonal, locally available ingredients from Edwin County Farms.

The Royal is a welcome (re)addition to the County, drawing on the historic and modern charm that in our opinion was needed, especially in Picton. With a great little cafe and restaurants to satisfy passers-by, the actual hotel offers a very chic place to rest and refresh while exploring the abundant charm of the area. Being a stone’s throw from picturesque wineries, charming restaurants and of course beautiful natural attractions, The Royal is the perfect place to be for a couple of days in The County.

If all this sounds like something you’re in to get more info at The Royal Hotel now.