Table of Contents

The hike to Hallasan Mountain started on a misty morning, creating an ethereal atmosphere as fog enveloped the landscape. Initially, the weather was calm, but heavy rain and strong winds soon turned the hike into a challenging adventure. Despite the poor visibility, the experience was memorable. After the hike, an attempt to visit a nearby temple led to a deserted location, teaching a lesson about trusting tourist maps. The visit to Eongtto waterfall was also underwhelming, as it was dry. However, lunch at a local Korean restaurant was a highlight, with outstanding food near the seaside. The day ended at the GoldOne Hotel & Suites, offering stunning views and a jacuzzi. The evening concluded with a visit to a craft brewery in Seogwipo, which was vibrant and lively.

Links to the previous parts

• Part 1: West Jeju
• Part 3: East Jeju
• Part 4: East Jeju Extended
• Part 5: Jeju City and the Coastal Road

Hallasan Hiking

A hike to Hallasan Mountain on a misty morning feels like stepping into a dream. The dense fog cloaks the towering trees and volcanic landscape in a soft veil, with muted sunlight gently filtering through. The sound of rustling leaves and distant bird calls echo in the cool, damp air. As you ascend, the mist parts to reveal moss-covered rocks, and the air grows crisper. Each step brings a sense of solitude and mystery, as the mountain’s ancient beauty reveals itself in fleeting glimpses through the fog.

Our goal was to conquer the mountain and take in the view of the caldera, but nature had other ideas. The day began with perfect conditions—clouds and a light breeze. We knew the weather could turn quickly, and after just half an hour of hiking, we found ourselves slipping into raincoats. An hour into the hike, every layer of clothing was drenched as torrential rain poured down and the wind howled fiercely. Though the trail itself wasn’t particularly challenging, the relentless wind and rain made the ascent far more demanding.

On the way to the top, we saw plenty of spots with potentially great views, but everything was blocked by misty fog. I’m confident that on a clear day it would be an amazing hike, but I enjoyed our experience too.

An Abandoned Temple

After a cup of hot tea, we decided to explore a nearby Korean temple. Unfortunately, the tourist map led us to some abandoned, manless facility. The road there was pleasant, but we didn’t manage to find a temple. The learning point - don’t always trust tourist maps!

Eongtto Waterfall

After the disappointment with the temple, we set out to explore a nearby waterfall, hoping for a more rewarding experience. Unfortunately, luck wasn’t on our side again. We arrived at a beautifully designed observation deck, complete with benches and railings, positioned perfectly for what should have been a breathtaking view. However, the waterfall was nowhere to be seen. The rocky cliff stood bare, without even a trickle of water. It seemed that the waterfall only appeared after heavy rains or during specific seasons, leaving it completely dry at other times. Despite the serene surroundings, it was a letdown after the long walk.

A Unique Korean Restaurant

Since it wasn’t time to check in at the hotel, we decided to grab lunch at a local restaurant. With the help of Google Maps, we stumbled upon a charming seaside spot that turned out to be a hidden gem. The food was absolutely outstanding. Every dish was fresh and fragrant, with the flavors of the sea woven into each bite. The seafood was tender, perfectly cooked, and seasoned with just the right amount of spices, bringing out its natural taste. The side dishes were equally delightful, bursting with vibrant flavors and freshness. I highly recommend checking out this spot if you’re ever in the area—it’s a must-try!

The place name and location:

오병이어

South Korea, Jeju-do, Seogwipo-si, 특별자치도 World cup-ro, 161-1 2층

Awesome view from quay side near the restarant:

GoldOne Hotel & Suites

Our choice for that night was GoldOne Hotel & Suites. The hotel is quite lovely, especially the view, with a jacuzzi in the room. The hotel is also proud of the Korean movie “The Witch: Part 2. The Other One” has been shot there.

In Jeju, you’ll find some charming local touches that just make you smile, like the unique way they protect their cars from scratches. Instead of worrying about dings and bumps in tight parking spots, many locals stick small blue foam pads on their car doors. It’s such a simple yet brilliant idea—these little foam protectors act as cushions, keeping the car safe from accidental scrapes when doors swing open too far. It’s a subtle but thoughtful gesture that shows a lot of care, not just for their own cars but for everyone else’s too. A perfect example of the island’s laid-back and considerate vibe!

Street Food & Craft Brewery

For dinner, we decided to take a quick drive to Seogwipo, and it turned out to be the perfect choice. Even on a weekday, the town was buzzing with energy, with its vibrant night market filled with an array of street food stalls and lively bars. The aromas of sizzling skewers and freshly cooked seafood filled the air, making it hard to resist stopping at every corner. However, we were headed to a specific brewer - Jeju Beer Fountain Olle market, known for its unique local craft beers. After a brief walk through the bustling streets, we arrived at the brewery. The atmosphere was cozy, and the beer was both unusual and delightful. Each glass had distinct flavors—some fruity, others rich and malty, with a refreshing crispness that spoke of local ingredients. It was the perfect way to end the evening, enjoying a taste of Jeju’s brewing craft.