Korea’s green assets and natural parks on display at ITB Berlin 2023

ADVERTORIAL

South Korea is a perfect holiday spot for travellers looking for outdoor and nature activities.

Demand for holidays away from crowded cities and tourism hotspots has continued to rise, as travellers prefer to enjoy nature, especially since the pandemic. Korea, a peninsula which is 70% covered by mountains, has great resources for outdoor activities. With its 17 mountain and 3 coastal national parks, visitors can take full advantage of South Korea’s natural beauty in the colourful spring and autumn months. Some nature spots can even be reached during a visit to the country’s capital city, Seoul, such as Bukhansan National Park, which is accessible by subway for a day or half day outing.

The country’s national parks offer a variety of activities like walking, hiking and climbing tours. Nature lovers who don’t want to be on their feet all day can discover Korea’s pristine landscape by rail biking. These specially-made bicycle tours go through the Korean countryside on disused train tracks. 

A hike through national parks can also be combined with visiting one of the numerous Buddhist temples, which are often situated in the mountains. Temples often propose a Temple Stay programme where visitors can book an overnight stay and learn about Korean Buddhism. Many of these programmes are conducted in English.

Just an hour’s flight from Seoul is Jeju Island, recognised by UNESCO as a Biosphere Reserve, World Heritage Site and Global Geopark. The volcanic island impresses with its unique and rare landscapes as well as its diverse flora and fauna. In addition to leisure activities, travellers can explore special coastal hiking trails – the so-called Olle-gil routes. These were created as part of a government initiative that aims to provide well-being experiences in a scenic environment free from air pollution.

Hall 26 / Stand 121

Photo: Jeju Olle Hiking