DAY THREE
SEORAKSAN, SOKCHO
For hiking, it’s hard to top Seoraksan, the
country’s third-highest and arguably most
majestic peak. Located in a national park,
this massif of ridges and stoney spires looms
over the seaside city of Sokcho. Start the day
with a stroll around Sinheungsa Temple
before tackling the 800 or so stairs to the top
of the dramatic rock formation of Ulsanbawi
(2,874ft), or jump on the Seoraksan Cable Car
to the ruins of Gwongeumseong Fortress. If
you want more adventure, trek up and along
Dinosaur Ridge or scale the mountain’s main
peak, Daecheongbong, which off ers amazing
views of the park, Sokcho, and the East Sea.
Finish it all off with a much-needed soak at
the Osaek Carbonated Hot Springs.
DAY FOUR
SOKCHO
Set before the picturesque backdrop of
Seoraksan, Sokcho is one of Korea’s most
charming areas. While tourism has taken
off in recent years, fi shing is still the
backbone of the local economy. Head down
to the Sokcho Tourist & Fishery Market to
try delicacies such as ojingeo sundae (stuff ed
squid), saewoo twigim (deep-fried shrimp) or
dak kang jung (sweet crispy fried chicken),
before jumping on the gaetbae, the hand-
pulled pedestrian cable ferry that goes to
Abai Village — a settlement of North Korean
refugees that dates back to the Korean War.
In the afternoon, head to Sokcho Museum
or Sokcho Beach. End the day by watching
the sun dip behind the Seoraksan ridge from
the top of Sokcho Expo Tower before having
dinner at one of the many restaurants near
the market.
DAY FIVE
YANGYANG’S SURFYY BEACH
For your last day, head south through the
town of Yangyang to Surfyy Beach. This
stretch of sand was once military property
but is now a designated surfer’s beach.
While the waves don’t often get bigger than
beginner level, it’s still possible to get up on
your board for a few mellow rides. Unlike
Surfyy Beach, the south end of the sand
(called Hajodae Beach) is open for swimming,
and whether you choose to get into the water
or not, this particular seaside spot is one of
the most scenic in Korea, making it the ideal
place to breathe in the fresh sea air and wind
down after several days on the road.
For more, go to eng.gwd.go.kr/gw/eng