Picton in Prince Edward County Ontario an ideal day trip destination less than two hours away from Toronto. 

This charming small town offers a delightful mix of nature, history, boutique shopping, and culinary delights.

My ideal day in Picton begins with a refreshing morning hike at Macaulay Mountain Conservation Area, just a short walk from downtown Picton. The trails here vary in difficulty, but the Blakely Trail, in particular, has pretty rewarding views. 

After the hike, grabbing a coffee and pastry then visiting Macaulay Heritage Park is a must. This historical site includes Macaulay House, an 1830s Regency-style home, and a museum showcasing the area's history. 

Picton's Main Street is lined with charming boutique shops and cozy cafes. One of my favourites is Beacon Bike + Brew, a unique shop where you can browse bikes and quality cycling gear while drinking fresh-brewed coffee. 

For fashion lovers, City Revival is a must-visit. This boutique offers a curated selection of vintage and modern clothing, accessories, and home decor items. It's a great place to poke around for anyone looking to find unique fashion pieces and gifts. 

For lunch, Vic Social is a local favourite known for its breakfast and lunch options. Their Peanut Butter & Kevin Bacon Burger, Triple Pickle Pickerel, and Lobster Roll are particularly popular. The cozy atmosphere makes it a great spot to relax and eat a meal. 

After lunch, 555 Brewing Co. in downtown Picton is the place to be. This brewery offers a variety of craft beers brewed on-site. Their spacious patio is a great place to sample some brews and maybe snack on some wood-fired pizza.

If you're sticking around town for dinner, Merrill House offers a fine dining experience with a seasonal menu featuring locally sourced ingredients. The elegant setting and creative dishes make it a place for a memorable meal.

But, if you're into something more casual, the Barley Room Pub at the Waring House on Sandy Hook Road has a Scottish pub atmosphere with a menu that highlights the region's flavours. 

I feel like no visit to Prince Edward County is complete without a trip to a winery. So, just outside of Picton, Huff Estates Inn & Winery is known for its excellent wines and beautiful patio overlooking the vineyards. It also features an art gallery, making it a great spot to unwind.

Altogether, the charm and variety of attractions makes Picton a fun escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. I'm already looking at my calendar to see when I can go next!