Jeju Seogwipo's Hayeong Olle Course 1 - The Beauty of Late Winter
Recently, I took a walk along Hayeong Olle Course 1, located in Seogwipo, Jeju. This path, where I strolled leisurely while soaking in the beautiful scenery of Jeju, was filled with the simple charm and tranquility of nature. The plum blossoms had yet to bloom, but the red flower buds signaled that spring was not too far away.
Hayeong Olle Course 1 is a path that follows the coast and forest trails of Seogwipo, with a total length of approximately 8.9 km. Having walked it several times before, I skipped the section with heavy traffic and traffic lights, opting for the forest and park paths hidden from the apartment view. I parked at Cheonjiyeon Falls and began trekking in the reverse direction.
Saeyeon Bridge & Saeseom Island
The course begins by crossing Saeyeon Bridge onto Saeseom Island for a loop. Saeyeon Bridge looks even more beautiful from Oedolgae and at night. It exudes a sense of simplicity and nature without being overly extravagant. The harbor near the falls rivals any beautiful harbor I've seen. It's a place that truly represents Jeju and serves as a perfect date spot.
As you walk, the scenery unfolding over the coastal cliffs is spectacular, with natural colors harmonizing with the blue sea, leaving a lasting impression. I once witnessed ducks and water snakes fighting in the clear waters under Saeyeon Bridge, where everything was visible.
Geolmae Ecological Park
After circling Saeseom Island, I crossed Saeyeon Bridge again and ascended the winding uphill path. Reaching the top reveals a wide-open plaza where seniors play gateball—a sight you'd miss if you drove by. There are also beautiful art installations and a spot overlooking Cheonjiyeon Falls. You'll be amazed by the presence of such a park and captivated by the beauty of nature.
The park trail connected to this plaza links to the Artists' Trail, offering views of numerous art pieces. A short walk leads to a valley with a waterfall-like stream surrounded by forest. Despite being adjacent to a four-lane road with buses, hotels, and Maeil Olle Market, many locals seem unaware of its existence.
The path through the lush trees creates a different atmosphere from the seaside. The forest trails reveal signs of nature preparing for spring. Although the plum blossoms were not in full bloom, small red buds adorned the branches as if cautiously preparing to bloom at the end of winter. I anticipate that the flowers will be in full bloom in two weeks, likely attracting small crowds gathering to capture the start of spring with their phone cameras.
Along the way, small rest areas provide perfect spots for a break. The Artists' Trail and Geolmae Park offer moments to rest, listen to the stream, and take photos. These simple moments are the essence of travel.
Instead of heading towards City Hall after Geolmae Park, I returned towards Cheonjiyeon Falls, skipping about 3 km of the 8.9 km course towards City Hall.
Scenic Harbor
Returning from Saeseom Island, I walked down the path I had ascended, enjoying the harbor view. While beautiful the way it is now, I believe it could become one of the world's top harbors with a little bit more attention to details. Instead of cafes, restaurants, and flashy lights, I hope that the focus will be on showcasing the beauty of nature and natural colors.
The final section of Hayeong Olle Course 1 reconnects with the sea. At sunset, the red glow over the sea was spectacular, slowing my pace as I admired its natural beauty.
Jeju's Olle trails offer different charms each season; however, the serene atmosphere of Hayeong Olle Course 1 at the end of winter was particularly impressive. The crisp, clear air, unopened buds, and harmonious scenery of blue sea and forest trails allowed for complete immersion in nature.
If you're looking for a great walking path in the city or want to experience Jeju but have limited time, or seek healing by enjoying both urban and natural landscapes, I highly recommend Hayeong Olle Course 1.