South Korea Adventure Holiday

We begin this exciting adventure in Seoul, South Korea’s dynamic capital and one of the world’s fastest growing cities. The economic, political and cultural centre of the country, Seoul is a fascinating mix of glass towers, historic temples, parks and museums, spanning the banks of the Han River. Arriving today we have a free afternoon to relax and settle into the flow of one of Asia’s most exciting cities.

Overnight Standard Hotel (H+)

Our first full day in Seoul sees us taking the subway to Samgaji Station to visit one of the most unique tourist attractions anywhere on earth. Following the end of the Korean War the country was split in half and today the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) that separates North and South Korea remains one of the last frontiers of the Cold War, where over a million soldiers remain on constant vigil. Please note: we visit this area as part of an organised group and all visitors must be respectfully dressed. No jeans or sandals are allowed.

Overnight Standard Hotel (H+) Included meals: Breakfast

This morning we take an orientation tour around the centre of Seoul, walking through the Myeongdong shopping district and down to the market at Namdaemun, before heading past the City Hall to the Gyengbokgung Palace. The largest of five great palaces built by the Joseon Dynasty, Gyengbokgung still remains the grandest and we pay a visit before moving on to the National Folk Museum. Later we walk down into the area of Insadong, famed for its antiques and handicrafts. We stop for lunch here, after which the rest of the day is free to enjoy as we wish.

Overnight Standard Hotel (H+) Included meals: Breakfast

Leaving the capital behind this morning we drive east, towards the slopes of Naksan Mountain and the Sea of Japan. Our journey takes us via the Osaek Mineral Springs in Osaekjigu, where we stop for lunch before continuing on to Naksansa. Boasting a history that stretches back some 1,300 years, the Naksansa Temple belongs to the Jogye order of Korean Buddhism. Devastated by a forest fire in 2005, the temple has been lovingly reconstructed and this afternoon we have an opportunity to partake in a traditional tea ceremony and learn a little more about temple life.

Overnight Monastery (H) Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner

There is an opportunity this morning to watch the monks go through their early morning rituals before we depart. From here we then drive to Mount Sorak National Park on the eastern edge of the Korean Peninsula. Set amongst the granite landscapes of the Taebaek Mountain range, Mount Sorak is the third highest peak in the country and on arrival we have the chance to enjoy some activities around the park. There are a number of walking trails that lead to temples and waterfalls and you can also take a cable car to the mountain’s summit.

Overnight Standard Hotel (H+) Included meals: Breakfast

This morning we head for one of Korea’s most beautiful temples. Hidden amongst the wooded slopes of Bonghwangsan, Buseoksa Temple dates back to the latter years of the 7th century and differs from many other temples in Korea because of its huge size. From here we continue to Suaedang via the stone Buddha at Jebiwon, an impressive 11th century carving that sits on top of a rocky outcrop overlooking the Sobaek Mountains. Arriving at our homestay later this afternoon we enjoy a tea ceremony and some local games before dinner.

Overnight Homestay (H) Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner

After a relaxing morning we check out and drive on to the Buyeongdae Viewpoint. From here we then continue to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hahoe, where we find the Hahoe Folk Village and its fascinating Mask Museum. We visit the site with a local guide, spending time wandering through the traditional houses of this early Joseon Dynasty village and exploring the museum, before completing our journey to Andong. In Andong we then board a train on to Gyenongju, arriving in the city in the early hours of this evening.

Overnight Standard Hotel (H+) Included meals: Breakfast

We enjoy a full day tour of South Korea’s second largest city today. Once the capital of the ancient kingdom if Silla, Gyenongju ruled over much of the Korean Peninsula between the 7th and 9th centuries. Our first visits this morning are to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Seoguram Grotto and the Bulguksa Temple. We also visit the Silla Kiln and the city’s National Museum, a rich repository for the relics and artifacts of the Silla kingdom, one of the longest dynasties in Asian history.

Overnight Standard Hotel (H+) Included meals: Breakfast

This morning we have a few options available to make the most of some free time before we leave. One is a hike on Mount Namsan with our local guide. Other possibilities include a boat trip on the lake, cycling around the surrounding countryside or a final look around Gyenongju. After lunch we then pay a visit to the Tongdosa Temple en route to Busan, South Korea’s largest port. After a chance to have a look around Busan’s fish market, we fly to Jeju-do, lying off the southern tip of the peninsula in the Korea Strait.

Overnight Standard Hotel (H+) Included meals: Breakfast

This morning we begin our exploration of Jeju. Korea’s largest island, this volcanic outcrop is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites and a distinctive culture that has developed in isolation to that of the Korean mainland. After a chance to settle in and have breakfast, we then head out to explore the island, visiting the Moskseogwon wooden carving garden and the Manjanggul lava tubes, before heading along the coastal road to Ilchubong Peak. From here we drive back to the hotel to relax and enjoy some free time.

Overnight Standard Hotel (H+) Included meals: Breakfast

We have a free day to make the most of this unique island. You could visit the Cheonjeyeon and Cheonjiyeon Waterfalls, explore some of the ‘Jeju Olle’ (hiking trails) that crisscross the island, or perhaps take a ride out to the Sangumburi Crater. As well as its natural attractions and World Heritage sites, the island’s culture sets Jeju-do apart from the mainland. It is blessed with a number of museums dedicated to the myths, legends and folklore of the island, providing us with a fascinating insight into the culture, beliefs and traditions of the local people.

Overnight Standard Hotel (H+) Included meals: Breakfast

After an early breakfast we catch an internal flight back to Seoul, where our tour ends at the Seoul-Gimpo domestic airport. Those of us flying back to London then transfer to the Incheon International Airport by shuttle bus for the onward flight home.

Included meals: Breakfast