Discover the timeless charm of Merrill House in Prince Edward County
Deep in the heart of Prince Edward County, Merrill House stands as a testament to the rich history and sophisticated charm that defines this vibrant region. With its Victorian architecture, luxurious accommodations, and commitment to exceptional service, Merrill House offers an unforgettable experience for those seeking a blend of elegance and comfort in their getaway.
Originally built in 1878, Merrill House is an architectural masterpiece that has lovingly been restored to preserve its historic charm while offering all the modern conveniences travellers expect.
The house was once the residence of Edwards Merrill, the first mayor of Picton, and it has retained much of its original character, from the intricate woodwork to the grand staircase that greets guests upon arrival.
A glimpse of history
Jordan Martin de Rosales is the owner and creative director at Merrill House. He says one of the most intriguing stories features Sir. John A. Macdonald.
“Merrill was a progressive force, and we have correspondence where he petitions Sir John A. Macdonald on progressive issues of the day, such as establishing rights for juvenile delinquents and abolishing capital punishment,” Jordan says. “Sir John studied law under Merrill’s father in Picton.”
Each of the guest rooms at Merrill House is uniquely designed, blending antique furnishings with contemporary art and amenities. The attention to detail is evident in every corner, from plush bedding and luxurious linens to the curated selection of local wines available for guests to enjoy.
Whether you're staying in a suite with a private balcony or a peaceful room with garden views, you'll find that comfort and elegance are the hallmarks of your experience.
“The design process has been a very organic one, with the idea being that it should reflect what would occur in an ancestral home; objects and art from different places and periods being layered together harmoniously,” Jordan says. “Featuring only real art and antiques is a major part of the Merrill experience, with each room individually designed.”
From an 1878-themed gathering to a party on the moon, the Merrill House specializes in unique events and experiences.
“Our many uniquely designed rooms provide the perfect backdrop for such events. Ultimately, it is our high level of service and attention to detail that allows us to pull these off,” Jordan says.
Food lovers rejoice
Merrill House is not just a place to rest your head; it’s a destination for food lovers. The on-site restaurant offers a culinary journey through the flavours of Prince Edward County, with a menu that celebrates local ingredients and seasonal produce. The chef’s commitment to sustainability and farm-to-table dining ensures that every meal is a fresh, flavourful experience that reflects the bounty of the region.
Jordan states that as a French restaurant, “our beef tartare is a menu staple that uses local beef and is accompanied by seasonal accoutrement, often including interesting edible flowers from our gardens.”
Pair your meal with a selection from the extensive wine list, which features some of the best wines from local vineyards.
Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely breakfast in the sunroom or a candlelit dinner in the dining room, the dining experience at Merrill House is one to savour.
Art and culture
Art lovers will find Merrill House to be a haven of creativity and culture. The house features an impressive collection of contemporary art, with pieces from both local and international artists. The ever-changing exhibits ensure that each visit offers something new to discover, making Merrill House not just a hotel, but a living gallery.
Jordan notes, “From the Merrill Museum to having the most extensive wine cellar in the County, to being a significant heritage building, we pride ourselves in being a central force in the County’s culture. We work with the local magazine LIFE AU LAIT to create unique cultural events from wine salons to caviar and truffle parties; look out for more of these events coming this winter!”
In addition to its art collection, Merrill House frequently hosts cultural events, including literary readings, art workshops, and wine tastings. These events provide guests with an opportunity to engage with the local community and immerse themselves in the vibrant arts scene for which Prince Edward County is known.
Inspirational
Having always been fascinated by history and architecture, this project was a natural fit, Jordan explains. “I felt an emotional connection with the house, which at the time was in dire need of much restoration and preservation work. We will be redoing the roof in a couple of weeks, and after that, it will be very rewarding to know that it is in great condition to continue its life for many decades to come. I very much see myself as a custodian of this piece of Canadian heritage.”
From the individually designed rooms with tailored libraries to a pillow scenting service, Jordan says at Merrill House, they strive to include many unique personal touches.
“Beyond this, it is creating the feeling that they are visiting a friend’s country house for the weekend where they can very much make themselves feel at home, whether sitting by a wood-burning fire or having a glass of wine in our drawing room.”
Take a leisurely bike ride along the Millennium Trail, explore the stunning Sandbanks Provincial Park, or indulge in a wine tour of the area’s renowned wineries. After a day of exploration, return to the tranquillity of Merrill House, where you can unwind by the fire in the drawing room or enjoy a nightcap in the cozy bar.
“We will be launching a spin-off concept of our restaurant in spring 2025, which is more accessible and casual,” Jordan confides. “Guests will be able to enjoy all our delicious French dishes and wines in a brasserie-style setting with many à la carte options. Stay tuned!”
Merrill House is more than just a place to stay—it's an experience that combines history, art, culture, and luxury in one of Ontario's most picturesque regions. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a cultural retreat, or a relaxing weekend escape, Merrill House offers an unparalleled blend of elegance and comfort that will leave you longing to return.
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Merrill House
BUILT IN 1878 FOR JUDGE EDWARDS MERRILL, MERRILL HOUSE HAS BEEN RESTORED TO ITS VICTORIAN GLORY: A MAGNIFICENT, STATELY HOME IMBUING LUXURY, TRANQUILITY AND BEAUTY.
Merrill House is a top 10 Small Hotels in Canada & #1 in Prince Edward County on Trip Advisor
@styleathome Best Inn Design