The Drake Devonshire in Prince Edward County

After an extensive two year restoration to a late 1800’s foundry building, the Drake Devonshire popped open its doors in the Fall of 2013. Located in pretty meets picturesque Prince Edward County, the affectionately dubbed “Drake-by-the-Lake,” is just a short two hour drive from Toronto.

Jeff Stober’s Drake Devonshire offers the same quirky aesthetic familiar to city folk who fawn over his iconic concepts in West Queen West and the Financial District while embracing the tricks and treats which make for a memorable rural romp.

The climate defiant, all-season getaway celebrates the warm, quirky charm of a historic country home, juxtaposed with sleek, bold and modern design in every corner – black, white and natural woods contrast smartly with bright splashes of colour and pattern throughout the space.

Over the past decade Prince Edward County has dramatically evolved as innovative entrepreneurs reinterpret the notion of small town hospitality. Whether you’re visiting The County for an epic winery hop, looking to dine on delicious delights, splash in the sun at Sandbanks Provincial Park or hike through timber trails…you’ll always find an inspiring ambiance, perfect for resting your weary head at the dreamy Drake Devonshire.

The Drake Devonshire in Prince Edward County

img_1483

Sweet Suite

The Drake Devonshire is one of the most buzzed about boutique hotels in Canada and with just 11 rooms and two suites it’s the sort of spot you’ll need to book months, if not a year in advance.

Each of the Lakeview, Creekside or Gardenview guest rooms is uniquely appointed with custom crafted armoires, desks and panelled headboards, gorgeous patterned upholstery, MacAusland blankets, walk-in marble and glass showers, wood floors with inlaid Egge carpeting, original artwork, curated snack and trays, DVD and iPod listening libraries, Bluetooth Bose sound system and Malin + Goetz toiletry products.

img_1302

Cozy Morning Read by Booming Fireplace

The Lobby features a petite Drake General Store, offering all sorts of goodies including sweet snacks, toiletries, in-house clothing line Shared, assorted curiosities and found antiques. Adjacent to the Lobby is the Living Room, with playfully mismatched furniture, a fireplace to cozy up to and exhibition space featuring rotating artworks and curated collections.

img_1299

Ping Pong Play 

The Glass Box is the hotel’s adorable games room complete with ping pong tables and, as the name suggests, beautiful glass walls overlooking Lane Creek bubbling on one side, with a garden on the other. It’s easy to rest and relax here with plenty of board games and a choir of comfy chairs.

img_1319

Sips and Nibbles in the Dining Room

As part of a growing stable of hotel and dining destinations, the Devonshire celebrates seasonal eating, locally inspired and sourced ingredients, and fun twists on classic dishes in typical Drake style. Executive Chef Ted Corrado and Sous Mike Portigal have created a highly original farm and lake-to-table menu with iconic Drake favourites alongside new Devonshire dishes, while celebrated local wines and spirits are splashed into glasses at the bar.

img_1323

S’mores at the Fire Pit

The outdoor spaces at the Devonshire are equally ripe for exploration. Skip outside onto the deck, a set of bleachers that cascade down to the water before arriving at the Fire Pit. Each evening the sunset splashes across the horizon with glee before dusk tip toes across Lake Ontario. Bring your banjo, warm your feet by booming fire and celebrate Canadian pride by devouring sticky meets sweet S’mores as the night sky twinkles with a welcoming wink.

Leave a reply