ELLE Canada’s Editor-in-Chief, Joanie Pietracupa, spent two nights at the most beautiful and luxurious boutique hotel, Merrill House located in Prince Edward County, Ont. If you’re in the market for a local trip or a staycation (if you’re in the area) here are five reasons why you should book a stay at this impressive ancestral home, which dates back to 1878.

1. Proximity

Did you know that Prince Edward County, Ont., is only three and a half hours from Montreal? The drive is fast and easy, and the scenery you see from your car window is breathtaking. It won’t be a boring drive at all!

2. The House 

When Merrill House’s new owners, creative director Jordan Martin de Rosales and her husband, artist Evert Rosales de Martin, bought the house in 2018, it was with the goal of transforming the place into a state-of-the-art luxury vacation or relaxation destination— outstanding wines and gourmet meals included. The house, originally built in 1878 by Edwards Merrill has undergone a facelift, while retaining its historic legacy. Each room is adorned with beautiful tapestries, contemporary art and antiques (paintings, sculptures, murals and other fascinating furniture and decorative items), and the boutique hotel also features an intimate bar, where you can sip a delicious cocktail, a lounge where you can experience virtual reality shows, an incredible restaurant where you can taste local wines and gourmet food, and a dry sauna where you can relax! The walls of the premises host temporary exhibitions featuring local and international artists, to be discovered at your own pace.

 

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3. The Food 

To say that we eat well at Merrill House is an understatement. The restaurant, located in the basement of the establishment, features French cuisine, specifically Burgundy, with a “farm-to-table” element. Chef Michael Sullivan and his team prepare deliciously gourmet dishes to the delight of our taste buds. Items on the menu include: foie gras au torchon, rabbit confit ravioli, beef tartar, crab salad, salmon gravlax, ricotta gnocchi, pan-fried veal, pithiviers (a delicious puff pastry), grilled fish and beef or bison strip loins. The dishes are created to match the wines of the region—not the other way around. Breakfast is complimentary with any overnight reservation.

 

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4. The Wine

What surprised me most about my Prince Edward County getaway? The incredible quality— and diversity—of the region’s wines! Thanks to wine expert Astrid Young for the private session that introduced me to tons of great wines and taught me so much about the Chardonnay and Pinot Noir the area is famous for. It’s also possible for guests to book a master class (different ones are available, depending on your interests and budget) with Young during your stay.

5. The Festive Atmosphere

Throughout the holiday season, Merrill House is decked out in its finest Christmas attire—Christmas trees, garlands and lights are all on display. Many special events are also on the agenda: live music evenings, mulled wine by the fireplace, a holiday market, tours of the Merrill House, New Year’s Eve with a six-course dinner and wine pairings… Let’s just say that if there’s one place where we dream of spending our New Year’s Eve, it’s here!

For more information, visit merrill-house.com.

Read more:
There’s Something for Everyone in Prince Edward County
The 5 Best New Restaurants to Check Out in Toronto
Chasing the Northern Lights: Plan Your Trip to the Yukon