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Why it’s worth traveling for?

A rustic luxury boutique inn on Lake Ontario

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– Alexander Wooley, New York Times

Hotel Highlights: The Drake Devonshire, overlooking Lake Ontario in Prince Edward County (a renowned wine region) is a hip-rustic boutique 13-room inn inspired by the charm of country inns in England and the nostalgia and laid back lakeside vibe of American summer camps. The perfect blend of old and new world, the decor is a delightfully modern mishmash of bright cheerful prints and mismatched furniture with an emphasis on art installations and cultural programs. There’s rotating artist exhibits as well as a permanent collection including a giant graffiti mural by Brooklyn collective FAILE and a huge bird collage created from the pages of nature magazines. The suites are also themed with custom furniture, millwork, original artwork and large luxe bathrooms with marble and glass shower. Opt for the Owner’s Suite to experience the wow factor views of Lake Ontario. Speaking of views, the sunsets at this lakeside oasis are sensational and when the mercury drops, you can gather around the fire pit or head to the Pavilion, an indoor-outdoor pitched roof restaurant where a bounty of delights from nearby farmers and vintners is served.

Eat + Drink: The restaurant at the Drake Devonshire has transformed Wellington’s culinary scene. Helmed by executive chef Alexandra Feswick, one of Toronto’s top chefs, the glass-encased dining room with waterfront patio has incredible, and incredibly romantic, views over the lake. For brunch try “Drake Benny” – two eggs, an English muffin, hollandaise and potato hash. Come cocktail hour, the “Earl of Kinsip” created exclusively for the hotel by resident mixologist Max Naiman is a winner with earl grey infused Kinsip juniper with gin, egg white and lemon. The dinner menu is seasonal and made from scratch with ingredients and produce from local farms – you won’t go wrong with the “arctic char” served with braised celeriac, roasted fennel and brussels sprouts. 

Beauty + Wellness: The property offers on-site yoga and pilates classes in the glass box, a glass-walled space overlooking Lane Creek and a garden. For guests who find relaxation in golf, tee off at Wellington on the Lake located in the heart of the PEC wine region. Or chill out by the beautiful waters of Lake Ontario and the Bay of Quinte which is home to some of the best walleye fishing in Ontario. In winter, hit the picturesque skating rink nearby.

Curated Experience: Prince Edward County is a draw for its beautiful beaches, Sandbanks Provincial Park and one of Canada’s burgeoning wine regions. Hotel guests can order a picnic basket service for wine trail outings. For the adventurous, from Toronto (a two-hour drive) Get Your Guide offers a boat cruise that takes you on a day tour of Niagara Falls and when in Rome, or rather Toronto why not book a private Helicopter Tour for Two.