Best Jeju Olle Trail Walks for Foreign Travelers: My Healing Journey Through Korea's Most Beautiful Coastal Paths (Transportation, Accommodation & Travel Guide)
After living in Seoul for more than 30 years, there are times when I simply want to escape the crowds, traffic, and endless rows of apartment buildings.
A few years ago, during a vacation, I traveled to Jeju Island with one goal in mind—not to rush from one famous attraction to another, but to slow down and enjoy nature at my own pace.
That's when I decided to walk the Jeju Olle Trail, one of Korea's most famous long-distance walking routes.
At first, I expected nothing more than a pleasant seaside walk.
Instead, it became one of the most memorable trips I've ever taken.
As I walked along dramatic volcanic cliffs, quiet fishing villages, stone walls, forests, and endless blue ocean, I often found myself thinking,
"This doesn't even feel like Korea."
The scenery felt surprisingly Mediterranean at times, while other sections reminded me of New Zealand or small coastal villages in Europe.
I took off my headphones, listened to nothing but the waves and the wind, and for the first time in months, my mind became completely quiet.
If you're visiting Korea and want to experience something beyond Seoul's busy streets, I genuinely believe the Jeju Olle Trail is one of the country's greatest hidden treasures.
In this guide, I'll share my personal experience along with practical transportation, accommodation, recommended routes, estimated costs, and helpful travel tips for international visitors.
Why Foreign Travelers Should Walk the Jeju Olle Trail
Many visitors explore Jeju Island by rental car, visiting waterfalls, beaches, and famous cafés.
While those attractions are wonderful, walking the Jeju Olle Trail allows you to experience the island much more deeply.
Instead of simply taking photos, you become part of the landscape.
Along the way you'll discover:
Dramatic volcanic coastlines
Traditional stone-wall villages
Quiet fishing harbors
Cedar forests
Citrus orchards
Friendly local cafés
Endless ocean views
Unlike crowded tourist attractions, the Olle Trail invites you to slow down and appreciate the journey itself.
I recommended the trail to several foreign friends, and every one of them told me it became the highlight of their trip to Korea.
What Is the Jeju Olle Trail?
"Olle" is a Jeju dialect word referring to the narrow pathway connecting a house to the main road.
Today, the official Jeju Olle Trail consists of 27 walking routes covering more than 430 kilometers (267 miles) around the island.
Fortunately, you don't need to walk the entire trail.
Even completing a single section gives you an unforgettable glimpse into Jeju's unique landscapes and culture.
My Favorite Jeju Olle Courses
1. Olle Trail Route 7 (My Top Recommendation)
The Most Beautiful Coastal Walk in Jeju
If I could recommend only one course, it would be Route 7.
The trail stretches from Oedolgae Rock to Wolpyeong Village, following dramatic coastal cliffs almost the entire way.
Every few minutes the scenery changes—from black lava rocks to turquoise water, quiet forests, palm-lined paths, and charming seaside cafés.
I never became bored because the ocean remained beside me almost the entire walk.
Distance
Approximately 15 km (9.3 miles)
Walking Time
Around 4–5 hours
How to Get There
From Jeju International Airport
Take Airport Limousine Bus 600 or an intercity bus to Seogwipo Bus Terminal (about 70–90 minutes).
Transfer to a local bus or take a taxi to Oedolgae (about 10–15 minutes).
Total travel time: approximately 1.5 hours.
A taxi directly from the airport takes about 50 minutes.
Highlights
Spectacular ocean cliffs
Black volcanic coastline
Palm tree paths
Quiet walking trails
Excellent photography spots
Small cafés overlooking the sea
2. Olle Trail Route 10
Volcanic Landscapes and Ocean Views
Route 10 circles Songaksan Mountain, offering panoramic coastal scenery and wide open grasslands.
This route feels especially peaceful because of its expansive ocean views.
How to Get There
From Jeju Airport:
Take an intercity bus toward Songaksan.
Travel time: approximately 80–90 minutes.
Highlights
Songaksan volcanic crater
Views of Hyeongjeseom Islands
Coastal cliffs
Open grasslands
Sunset photography
3. Olle Trail Route 6
Ideal for First-Time Walkers
Route 6 begins at Soesokkak Estuary, one of Jeju's most beautiful natural attractions.
The trail combines rivers, forests, coastal scenery, and traditional villages, making it perfect for beginners.
How to Get There
From Jeju Airport:
Take an airport bus to Seogwipo.
Continue by local bus or taxi to Soesokkak.
Total travel time: approximately 90 minutes.
Highlights
Scenic forest paths
Riverside scenery
Gentle walking terrain
Beautiful ocean views
Family-friendly course
How to Travel from Seoul to Jeju Island
By Air (The Fastest and Most Convenient Option)
Flying is by far the easiest way to reach Jeju.
Route
Gimpo International Airport → Jeju International Airport
Flight Time
Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes
Average Airfare
Budget airlines: KRW 40,000–70,000
Full-service airlines: KRW 80,000–120,000
Booking several weeks in advance often results in significantly lower fares.
Getting Around Jeju Without Renting a Car
One thing many international visitors don't realize is that you can enjoy the Olle Trail without driving.
The island has an extensive bus network connecting most trail entrances.
Transportation options include:
Airport limousine buses
Intercity buses
Local buses
Taxis
Kakao T taxi app
For solo travelers, combining buses with occasional taxi rides is often the most practical solution.
Where to Stay in Jeju
1. Seogwipo (Highly Recommended)
This is my favorite place to stay because many of the most scenic Olle routes begin nearby.
Average Accommodation Costs
Guesthouse: KRW 25,000–45,000
Business hotel: KRW 60,000–120,000
Resort hotel: KRW 150,000+
Guesthouses are especially popular among solo travelers and hikers.
2. Jungmun Tourist Complex
Perfect if you prefer comfortable hotels with easy access to beaches, restaurants, and attractions.
Best For
Couples
Families
Luxury travelers
3. Jeju City
Ideal for your first or final night because it's close to the airport.
It also offers the widest range of restaurants and shopping.
Foods You Should Try After Walking the Olle Trail
Walking several hours makes everything taste better.
These are my personal favorites.
Jeju Pork Noodle Soup (Gogi Guksu)
A comforting bowl of noodles topped with tender pork.
Perfect after a long walk.
Braised Cutlassfish
One of my favorite meals in Jeju.
The spicy seasoning pairs perfectly with fresh seafood and warm rice.
Jeju Black Pork BBQ
Probably Jeju's most famous specialty.
The meat is incredibly juicy and flavorful.
Abalone Porridge
A gentle, nourishing breakfast before another day of hiking.
Fresh Raw Cuttlefish
A seasonal seafood specialty that many locals recommend during summer.
Suggested 3-Day Itinerary
Day 1
Fly from Seoul to Jeju
Travel to Seogwipo
Walk part of Olle Route 7
Dinner: Braised cutlassfish
Overnight in Seogwipo
Day 2
Complete Olle Route 7
Relax at a seaside café
Visit Oedolgae Rock
Explore Cheonjiyeon Waterfall
Evening at Seogwipo Maeil Olle Market
Day 3
Walk part of Route 10
Visit Songaksan
Lunch by the coast
Return to Jeju Airport
Fly back to Seoul
Estimated Travel Budget (3 Days / 2 Nights)
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Round-trip flights | KRW 100,000–200,000 |
| Accommodation | KRW 120,000–250,000 |
| Food | KRW 80,000–120,000 |
| Local transportation | KRW 30,000–50,000 |
| Coffee & snacks | KRW 30,000 |
| Miscellaneous | KRW 20,000 |
Estimated Total
Approximately KRW 380,000–670,000 per person
Helpful Tips for Walking the Jeju Olle Trail
Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes
Most routes involve walking more than 10 kilometers.
Light hiking shoes or cushioned sneakers are highly recommended.
Carry Water and Snacks
Some trail sections have long stretches without convenience stores.
Check the Weather
Jeju's weather changes quickly, and coastal winds can be surprisingly strong.
A lightweight windbreaker is always useful.
Walk Slowly
The Olle Trail isn't about finishing quickly.
Take breaks, sit on a bench overlooking the ocean, and enjoy the scenery.
Those quiet moments often become the best memories.
Final Thoughts
Among all the places I've visited in Korea, the Jeju Olle Trail remains one of the most unforgettable.
Rather than rushing through famous attractions, I found happiness simply by walking slowly.
The volcanic coastline, peaceful fishing villages, and endless ocean views often made me forget I was still in Korea.
Even today, whenever life feels overwhelming, I remember the sound of the waves and the cool sea breeze along those trails.
If you're planning your first trip to Korea—or if you've already visited Seoul and want to discover a quieter, more authentic side of the country—I wholeheartedly recommend spending at least one day walking the Jeju Olle Trail.
It isn't just a hike.
It's a chance to slow down, breathe deeply, and experience Korea at a gentler pace.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a rental car to enjoy the Jeju Olle Trail?
No. Most popular trailheads are accessible by airport buses, intercity buses, local buses, or taxis, making the Olle Trail easy to enjoy without driving.
Which Olle Trail is best for first-time visitors?
Route 7 is the most popular because of its spectacular coastal scenery, easy accessibility from Seogwipo, and well-maintained walking paths.
Where should I stay for an Olle Trail trip?
Seogwipo is the best base for most walkers thanks to its convenient access to several popular Olle routes, restaurants, cafés, and public transportation.
When is the best season to walk the Jeju Olle Trail?
Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–November) offer the most comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, although the trails are enjoyable throughout the year.
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