Jeju Olle Trail- Capturing The True Essence Of An Alluring Island

What better way to enjoy the striking season of the beautiful sun and glistening breeze than the Jeju Olle Trail?

Here is where a mega 425-kilometer long trail connects the coastline. Comprising of a massive 26 routes, it’s all about circling the island in all its majestic glory.

Believe it or not, Jeju Island goes above and beyond the mystic wonders of serene beaches. It’s a destination that celebrates the wondrous amazement of nature at its best. Therefore, it makes absolute sense to explore the unknown. And that’s exactly what the true essence of Jeju Olle Trail is all about. 

Likewise, you’ll find plenty of travelers on foot. In the same way, every individual is so distinct yet so similar. But everyone has one goal in mind. That thing revolves around the passion of discovering the beautiful Jeju Island. 

Located at Korea’s southern tip, it’s a journey of a lifetime. And it begins with a single step in the right direction. 

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Understanding the basics of the Jeju Olle Trail

If trekking and hiking happen to tickle your fancy, you’ve surely set yourself up for adventure success. Great for beginners and experts too, the easy to the moderate trail has plenty of wonderful offerings. 

You can imagine it as a long-distance footpath upon the glorious island. Situated near South Korea’s south-western coast, the route is a memorable one. And at 425 kilometers, it has 21 connecting main routes. Just like that, there are 5 sub-routes too. Lastly, there’s a short spur of land that connects you directly to Jeju’s International Airport. 

Needless to say, this is one of the island’s biggest attractions. For this reason, you’ll find both foreigners and locals gathering in groups. While they may all be strangers, it doesn’t take too long for many to become friends. And that’s the beauty of this trail. 

Free of cost and open for all, this place only asks for one thing in return. If you haven’t guessed by now, it’s about respecting the land, promoting nature, and spreading smiles along the way. Oh, what a wonderful ordeal indeed!

Serenading through the island- what to expect

Visitors can expect to get bewildered by the island’s many sublime offerings. We kid you not on this one, the trail presents a heartwarming combination. You can think of it as an eclectic blend of culture, history, nature, and lives too. 

Above all, these can only be appreciated when you’re on foot. Just the entire experience elevates to a feeling that’s indescribable. Passing by 135 towns and just as many landmarks, can one ask for anything more?

There are blissful views of both the small as well as the big oceans. Did we mention the great oreum. For those who may not be aware, this is the name given to a tiny extinct volcano. 

Certainly, completing the 26 routes is equal to circling the entire island. How cool is that? And doing it on foot, along the serene coastline, makes it all the more worthwhile. 

However, you don’t need to finish all of the routes. Each route has enough sightseeings that include a town, ocean, as well as oreum. Therefore, you experience it all, capturing the island’s true allure. 

On average, you might need to take a day or two, if you wish to experience nature’s finest. 

Meeting people & visiting towns- Jeju Olle Trail

If we had to pick one of the trail’s biggest highlights, it would be communication. Besides, passing by small and large scale villages gives you great insight into the culture. This way, you get to see every town and what life is like on the Island. 

Locals are very welcoming-smiling and gesturing as you pass by. You get to see kids going to school and elders enjoying the pavilion. Meanwhile, farmers take care of the harvests and divers resting over the shore. All in all, nothing compares to a fresh take on island life. 

Did we mention the glorious tangerine harvests during the wintertime? Yes, it’s a luscious treat to take back home as a souvenir.

Trekking and sightseeing- an absolute treat

In case you wish to indulge in both trekking as well as sightseeing, you need to rush. You can go off the path to take a moment and enjoy sightseeing. Captivating sites worth your while includes places like the UNESCO’s Global Geopark and World Heritage site. 

Almost all of the routes feature famous landmarks. Particular mentions include Seongsan Ilchulbong Sunrise Park and museums. There’s also a tourist complex with high cliffs and peaks too. We definitely recommend Songaksan and Sanbangsan Mountain. In the same way, the thrill of reaching the top is like no other. 

Did you know that those who complete the trail get a special mention into their Hall of Fame? How cool is that?

If you’re in Seoul by any chance, don’t forget to catch up on some great reads at Arc N Book Library.