Nestled in the heart of Picton in Prince Edward County, Merrill House offers a stunning blend of historic charm and contemporary luxury. This boutique hotel, set within a beautifully restored Victorian mansion, offers guests an elegant base to explore beautiful surroundings, with a kitchen serving up unforgettable food from fresh local produce.
Hotel
The unmistakable grandeur of Merrill House is evident from arrival. Its charming historical architecture and intricate woodwork transport you to a bygone era. As I stepped inside, a stylish lobby filled with plush furnishings and statement ornaments greeted me, blending modern aesthetics with vintage flair. The hotel hasn’t always looked this way. It was only back in 2019 that it had a major glow up, courtesy of an intense renovation to restore the historic house to its Victorian glory. The work took over six months and within that time 17 bathrooms were gutted, chandeliers were replaced and new windows were installed in every room.
The new aesthetic is inspired by European country houses, which is fitting, as owner Jordan Martin, an art collector and entrepreneur from Ontario, initially wanted to open a hotel in France or Britain. However, one Christmas trip to his home province changed that when he discovered the Merrill House, a Picton hotel that was then called the Merrill Inn. Martin’s hard work now means the hotel boasts stunning interiors, a state-of-the-art wine cellar and a fine antiques collection, which Martin shipped over from his time living in the UK.
Room
Merrill House offers a selection of uniquely styled rooms. My home for the weekend was one of the deluxe suites on the top floor, a large and grand space bringing together historical character and modern comfort. The high ceilings and large windows filled the room with natural light, while the king-sized bed and plush linens felt like sinking into a cloud. It’s safe to say, we slept very well there. Though the property is inspired by country homes of Europe, the interior design is more global. Our room for example, featured baroque printed wallpaper which was juxtaposed with oriental artwork and Aztec inspired rugs. It’s busy and bold, but somehow it works.
Our bathroom however had a calmer design and after a day of exploring, a large soaking tub was the perfect remedy to aching feet and joints. This feeling of relaxation was aided by the complimentary high-end toiletries and soft and enveloping towels. Relaxation doesn’t stop there and Merrill House’s attention to detail is exquisite; guests are given the opportunity to choose a scent for their pillows, book in for private yoga classes as well as sauna sessions too.
Food and drink
Dinner at the in-house restaurant is an experience I will have to save for my next visit. The eatery is known for its farm-to-table dishes, showcasing the freshest local produce available in Prince Edward County. If a glass of fine wine is your thing, you might be interested in Merrill House’s state-of-the-art wine cellar and large array of wines on offer. Though I can’t comment on the dinner offering, I can highly recommend breakfast at Merrill House. The coffee was expertly brewed, and the signature avocado toast topped with poached egg was a delightful way to start the day. The fruit salad and pastry basket only added to this joy.
To do
Located in the heart of Prince Edward County, Merrill House serves as a superb base for exploring the area. Guests can easily venture to nearby wineries or breweries that offer and that celebrate the unique taste of the region. Or for a more wholesome experience, just a short drive away lies Sandbanks Provincial Park, renowned for its stunning coastline and white sandy beaches, perfect for those seeking adventure or a peaceful day by the water.
Art enthusiasts will enjoy walking through the countless galleries that dot the county, showcasing the works of local artists inspired by the surrounding landscapes. After a day of exploring, returning to the luxury of Merrill House felt like coming home, where you can sip a glass of wine by the fireplace or unwind in the tranquility of your room.
In a nutshell
From its luxurious rooms to its exceptional dining, every detail at Merrill House has been thoughtfully curated. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a rejuvenating retreat, or a culinary crusade through local produce, Merrill House offers it all against the stunning backdrop of Prince Edward County.
Factbox
Address: Picton Main Street, 343 Main St E #343, Picton, ON K0K 2T0, Canada
Phone: +1 866-567-5969
Website: merrill-house.com
Photography courtesy of Merrill House.
