SPECIAL INTEREST
Korea by Bike 21 days
Tour from April through October |
| Tour facts and features | |
| Accommodation | 20 hotel and pension nights in 2 and 4 star twin share accommodation |
| Meals | 7 breakfasts |
| Transport | All transportation by private vehicle, supporting vehicle on riding, and speed train |
| Guided | Services of an English speaking guide |
| Group size | Maximum 6 |
| Age range | 18+ |
| Activity | Cycling of 16 days |
| Degrees of difficulty | Very difficult |
Note
Please read the following carefully.
All distances, times, and road conditions mentioned in this program are estimates and provided for guidance only.
Your safety and well-being are your personal responsibility.
Ride responsibly:
Maintain a safe speed, yield the right-of-way, and never ride under the influence of alcohol.
Daytime riding only: Rides are scheduled strictly between sunrise and sunset.
Weather conditions:
Rides will be canceled during bad weather, including:
Extreme heat or cold
Strong winds
Heavy rain or fog
Equipment & Gear:
We provide bicycles and a basic tool set.
You must bring:
A helmet (mandatory)
High-visibility or reflective clothing for low-light or cloudy conditions
Road & Riding Etiquette
Obey all traffic laws ? cyclists must follow the same rules as motorists.
Always use correct hand signals before turning.
Ride in single file, in the same direction as traffic.
Practice courtesy and awareness when sharing the road.
Be Alert for Hazards
Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
Watch out for:
Opening car doors
Sewer grates and road debris
Uneven pavement
Poorly lit tunnels or underpasses
By participating, you agree to follow these guidelines and exercise caution throughout the ride.
Click on the days to access the programs quick
| Days | Visits and Activities | Distance |
| Day 1 | Arrive Seoul | 60km |
| Day 2 | Seoul | |
| Day 3 | Seoul - Cheongpyeong - Gapyeong | 86km |
| Day 4 | Gapyeong - Chuncheon - Hwacheon | 65km |
| Day 5 | Hwacheon - Peace Dam - Bangsan | 56km |
| Day 6 | Bangsan - Haean | 31km |
| Day 7 | Haean | |
| Day 8 | Haean - Wontong - Hangyeryeong - Girin | 74km |
| Day 9 | Girn - Misan Valley - Wongdang Samgeori - Jangchon Samgeori - Unduryeong - Jinbu | 85km |
| Day 10 | Jinbu - Suhangri - Najeonri - Mungok - Jeongseon - Hwaam | 64km |
| Day 11 | Hwaam - Baekjeon - Panmun - Samsuryeong - Taebaek | 42km |
| Day 12 | Taebaek - Andong | 123km |
| Day 13 | Andong | |
| Day 14 | Andong - Hahoe - Angye | 76km |
| Day 15 | Angye - Yeongcheon | 84km |
| Day 16 | Yeongcheon - Gyeongju | 50km |
| Day 17 | Gyeongju | |
| Day 18 | Gyeongju - Eonyang - Yangsan - Busan | 110km |
| Day 19 | Busan |
| Day 20 | Busan - Seoul | 460km |
| Day 21 | Departure | 50km |
Day 1 Arrive Seoul (- - -)
60km
Touching down at Incheon International Airport places you in the heart of Korea. After you clear Passport and Customs control, you will be welcomed by the tour guide and then transferred to your hotel.
The rest of the day is yours to relax, allowing your mind and body time to adjust to different time zone.
Day 2 Seoul (B)
Your exploration this morning begins with a driving tour of Seoul, featuring sites such as Seoul Plaza, City Hall, Cheonggye Square and pedestrian-friendly Gwanghwamun Plaza that is hemmed in on three sides by rushing traffic.
Step back in time to when life was gracefully slow and discover Gyeongbokgung Palace, a particularly charming spot that represents a colorful and turbulent side of the capital's 500-year history. Depending on timing, you may witness the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony featuring parade, password verification, duty shift and patrolling the gate. Accompanied by a court band with its colorful costumes and royal flags, the ceremony is performed daily basis at 10:00 and 14:00 except Tuesdays, although it is cancelled in case of rain or extremely hot or cold weather.
Your visit to the National Folk Museum of Korea will familiarize you with wealthy culture of this friendly and picturesque nation. It is an excellent facility to illustrate the history of traditional life of the Korean people from the prehistoric age to the Joseon dynasty. The permanent exhibition features life and work, costumes and ornaments, handicrafts and technology, educations, living quarters, dietary life, oriental medicine, performing arts and games, beliefs and rituals, and
socio cultural life.
Insadong, at one time the center of traditional Korean art and antiques, features a mixture of historical and modern atmosphere representing the cultural glimpse of the nation. Clustered along the main street and alleys are lined with street vendors, wooden tea houses, restaurants and numerous galleries and shops dealing in antiques, oriental art supplies, and modern Korean art of all types and styles. Soak in the paintings, upscale artworks, antiques and potteries while you can. Get lucky and you just might meet the artist themselves. It can be plenty of fun walking on the main street, but you venture into the hidden alleys that do spring some unexpected surprises. While here, you may want to buy some souvenirs or simply wander and browse at leisure admiring cultural ambience.
You will tour the centuries-old Namdaemun Market brimming with well over 11,000 shops selling anything you can imagine. One of the most colorful aspects of the market is an endless sprawl of street-vendor stalls that setup in the alleys and walkways between the buildings. The market is seriously crowded, so be prepared to get bumped around. A fantastic place to haggle over the price to get the best deal on something you want or simply admire the vibrancy of this massive market.
At the western entrance of the market in the middle of a traffic circle stands Sungnyemun. It is a formidable and iconic construct that served as the southern gate of the wall that surrounded Seoul during the period of the Joseon Dynasty.
Day 3 Seoul - Cheongpyeong - Gapyeong (- - -) 86km
After checking out, head to Gwangnaru Hangang Park where you will pick up your bike and and have time to ensure they are properly fitted for you.
Pedals, cleats, cycling shoes, crank arm length, saddle selection, height, fore/aft and tilt, handlebars, brake levers, etc.
Once you are ready, Begin your journey north along the scenic riverside bike path to Gapyeong,
a beautiful town set by the mountains, rivers and lakes. It is one of the favorite relaxing and vacation destinations in the region.
Day 4 Gapyeong - Chuncheon - Hwacheon (- - -) 65km
Your onward tours cover most of the length of the country, enjoying a limited flat and rolling path to the the high mountain passes with a degree of valley every day. More suited for highly experienced bicyclists. The first part of the path to Chuncheon is a bikeway which is pretty flat and pleasant. You will cycle through roads that offer impressive landscapes, crossing charming villages.
From Chuncheon onward, the comfortable riverside bikeway disappears, giving way to a more rugged path with steep uphill sections. Cyclists should be ready for a tough ride through hilly terrain though the scenic mountain views along the way make the effort worthwhile.
Day 5 Hwacheon - Peace Dam - Bangsan (- - -) 56km
The word of the day is Road 460, a route defined by long climbs, fast descents, and winding through deep mountain valleys.
Expect a relentless day of sweaty uphill grinds, often ending in a tunnel. The day begins with around 15km of gentle cycling through a serene river valley, ending at Pungsan 2-ri.
There are two options to choose from at this village.
Option 1
Take a right turn to begin a challenging ride through remote mountainous terrain.
The elevation rises steeply, and you’ll quickly notice the absence of villages or farmland. Instead, you’ll be fully immersed in the solitude of the mountains. The road experiences very light traffic, mainly due to the area's remoteness and limited development.
Be prepared for a series of tunnels. While they are well-lit and have adequate shoulders, it's essential to have a rear reflector and a flashing tail light for added safety.
Option 2
Continue straight toward the Hanmukryeong Pass route.
This option has no tunnels - just a gentle uphill climb followed by a descent toward the Andong Steel Bridge and to Peace Dam.
Standing 125 meters high and 601 meters wide, the dam was completed in 2005 as a preventive measure against potential flooding in the event of a collapse of the Imnam Dam in North Korea. Notably, the Peace Dam does not hold a reservoir ? it's purely a precautionary structure.
Make sure to stop by the World Peace Bell, crafted from empty cartridge cases collected from global conflict zones. Weighing 37.5 tons, the bell is a symbol of peace but remains incomplete. A broken pigeon wing, displayed nearby, will be added to the bell on the day of Korean unification ? a powerful reminder of hope and reconciliation.
Day 6 Bangsan - Haean (- - -) 38km
Today's trails follow Roads 460, 31, and 453 - a rugged, mountainous route with no shortage of climbs.
The mountains feel endless, rising steeply with each passing kilometer. You will pass small villages like Omi, Geumak, Jangpyeong, and Gobangsan, nestled quietly in the valleys.
Stop at Dutayeon if you please. Nestled deep within the mountainous region of Goseong County in Gangwon Province, Dutayeon (Dutayeon Valley) is a pristine natural haven located near the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) between North and South Korea. This secluded valley is part of a military-controlled area, which has helped preserve its untouched beauty and ecological value.
The day’s toughest challenge still lies ahead: Mount Dosolsan, with parts of the Dolsanryeong Pass reaching 1,050 meters in elevation. There’s nothing quite like a seemingly never-ending uphill climb to close out your day.
Once you cross the pass, you're rewarded with a stunning sight ? the Punch Bowl, a massive, natural geologic basin encircled by steep mountains on all sides. Several kilometers wide, this bowl creates some of the richest farmland in the region and offers stark, breathtaking views.
However, this peaceful-looking landscape hides a dramatic history. Due to its strategic location, the Punch Bowl was the site of intense battles during the Korean War:
Day 7 Haean (- - -)
Take a break and enjoy a leisurely day to refresh. For those interested in history and geopolitics, you may want to join a guided tour to the Eulji Observatory - a powerful reminder of the Korean Peninsula's divided past.
Please note: the tour does not operate on Mondays.
Eulji Observatory stands at a strategic peak 1,049 meters above sea level, one of the fiercest battlegrounds of the Korean War.
From the observation deck, it is possible to see North Korean guard posts and soldiers, making it one of the few places where the tension of the divided peninsula can be felt so vividly.
This tour is both sobering and educational - a rare opportunity to witness the ongoing legacy of the Korean War while appreciating the efforts toward peace and remembrance.
Day 8 Haean - Wontong - Hangyeryeong - Girin (- - -) 83km
The itinerary leads you through quaint, traditional villages filled with charm and the warm spirit of the people who live there.
From here, a 30km stretch of gentle, winding valley road - with a few rolling hills - leads you to Wontong. where you will join Road 44.
Approximately 3km ahead, you will arrive at Hangye Gyocharo. Here, switch to Road 46, which leads you toward Hangyeryeong Pass (920m).
Be prepared - this section is a strenuous 20km uphill ride, climbing steadily to Hangyeryeong Pass.
Do not miss this critical turn about 700m ahead, take Pillaero road to the right and continue downhill for 11km until you reach a junction.
At the junction, turn onto Road 31 and cross the Garisan 1-gyo Bridge on your left.
About 700 meters after the bridge, you will come to another fork - take the left and continue riding 13km to reach Girin, your destination for the day.
Day 9 Girn - Misan Valley - Unduryeong - Jinbu (- - -) 85km
Today is one of the most challenging rides of the tour - but also one of the most rewarding.
The autumn scenery here is truly special, with vivid colors and sharp contrasts that paint a beautiful, cozy landscape.
Steep mountains, winding roads, and a stream running alongside the path all work together to push you forward. The more effort you put into pedaling, the more breathtaking the views become.
The day begins with a tough climb over Omijae Pass (500m), followed by a pleasant downhill ride through scenic, gentle valleys.
Enjoy your ride through the tranquil atmosphere and untouched beauty of Misan Valley make it a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Next, take Road 31 and prepare for anout 11km ride over Unduryeong Pass (1,089m). After reaching the top, continue down to Soksa Samgeori.
From there, turn left and head toward Jinbu.
As you ride through this remote region, you will be ?surrounded by a chain of towering mountains, with valleys sparsely dotted with tiny, peaceful villages - many of them seemingly frozen in time, inhabited by long-time locals.
It’s a quiet, introspective ride through the heart of rural Korea, where nature and tradition meet.
Day 10 Jinbu - Jeongseon - Hwaam (- - -) 64km
The mountains remain high, and the road winds its way along scenic river valleys. While the overall elevation stays relatively low, the route features a gentle downhill slope leading toward Jeongseon. However, you will pass through three tunnels along the way. The mountains remain high, and the road winds its way along scenic river valleys. While the overall elevation stays relatively low, the route features a gentle downhill slope leading toward Jeongseon, a charming rural town rich in tradition and natural beauty.
Today, you will pass through three tunnels along the way - each requiring caution, though the journey remains tranquil and picturesque.
This mountain town is best known for its stunning river valleys, misty peaks, and the Jeongseon Arirang - a local variation of Korea’s most iconic folk song, deeply rooted in the region’s cultural identity.
Jeongseon’s Five-Day Market is a quintessential example of Korea’s traditional markets. Held on days ending in 2 and 7, it comes alive with the energy of local vendors, regional specialties, and visitors from across the country, creating a vibrant and authentic cultural experience.
Located in Jeongseon, Hwaam is a hidden gem surrounded by dramatic rock cliffs, crystal-clear valleys, and lush forests. While visiting, be sure to try Hwaam Yaksu, a natural carbonated mineral spring prized for its pure taste and health benefits. The spring water, rich in iron and carbonic acid, has a gentle sparkle and is believed to aid digestion and refresh the body.
Day 11 Hwaam - Taebaek (- - -) 42km
Pathfinding may seem challenging at first, but in reality, the route is quite manageable. The overall elevation is gentle, except for the demanding Samsuryeong Pass (935m), where you will find expansive highland cabbage farms alongside a cluster of wind turbines.
This cycling journey offers a true connection with nature. Along the way, you will share unique moments with locals and gain insight into their traditional lifestyle - a sensory delight and an immersion into charming, historic towns. The day promises a rewarding challenge, with endless mountains and winding valleys shaping your path.
While in Taebaek, be sure not to miss the birthplace of the Nakdong River: Hwangji Pond. This natural spring gushes approximately 5,000 tons of crystal-clear water daily, offering a peaceful and picturesque spot to reflect on Korea’s rich natural heritage.
Day 12 Taebaek -
Andong (- - -) 123km
Your journey begins in Taebaek with a challenging start: steep, winding uphills immediately slow your pace. The first stretch follows a narrow, busy two-lane road with fast-moving traffic, making it a demanding and potentially risky section - despite the natural beauty surrounding you.
After turning right at Yuksongjeong Samgeori, a relentless climb begins up Neutjae Hill (896m). This uphill section stretches for about 11km without respite. At the summit, you are rewarded with a steep descent that brings you to Cheongok-ro.
The route becomes more intricate here. At Hyeondong Samgeori, turn left and follow the town road heading toward Hyeondong Tunnel about 1 km away. Just before entering the tunnel, take the right fork to join a quieter local road called Imgiro, which gently winds alongside a peaceful stream.
From this point on, the terrain becomes more moderate, offering a scenic and relaxing ride. Enjoy the tranquility as you make your way toward Dosanseowon Confucian Academy, a historic cultural site dating back to the 16th century. If time permits, take a break and explore the academy before continuing your journey toward Andong.
Day 13 Andong (B)
Today is a day for relaxation, but you may still want to spend some time touring Andong by bike to explore its rich cultural heritage.
Start with a visit to the Andong Folk Museum, which provides an in-depth look at traditional Korean life and Confucian culture.
The museum features a variety of exhibits focused on the four major Confucian rites.
Next, enjoy the local ambience as you explore Andong’s traditional market, filled with a wide array of merchandise, fresh vegetables, seafood, and fruits. At one end of the market, you will find a famous alley known for its Andong-style braised chicken (Andong Jjimdak) - a savory, mildly salty, slightly sweet dish with just a hint of spice. It’s a popular local delicacy you might want to try.
Day 14 Andong - Hahoe - Angye (- - -) 76km
Retrace your route by bike to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hahoe Village (Hahoe Maeul), a remarkably well-preserved 15th-century traditional Korean village. This unique settlement offers a rare glimpse into the lifestyle of the Joseon Dynasty (1392?1910). Approximately 480 traditional hanok houses, both grand and modest, remain intact and fully functioning, preserving the authentic character of the era.
As you stroll through the narrow alleyways, take in the rustic charm and timeless atmosphere of the village. One unmissable highlight is a 600-year-old zelkova tree, believed to house the village spirit. Locals still gather at the tree's base to make wishes and offer prayers, continuing centuries-old traditions.
You will tour the Hahoe Mask Museum which offers a fascinating look into Korea’s traditional mask culture. The museum showcases a wide collection of Hahoe masks which are famously used in the Hahoe Byeolsingut Talnori, a traditional mask dance drama performed for rituals, entertainment, and social satire.
You will view the masks from Hahoe and other regions of Korea but also masks from over many countries around the world, making it an international center of mask art and culture.
Day 15 Angye - Yeongcheon (- - -) 84km
The words “bikeway,” “trail,” or “bike path” do not quite capture the nature of today’s route. Navigation may be a bit challenging, with several route options to choose from.
However, you will stay on track with the detailed guidance we provide throughout your ride.
Day 16 Yeongcheon - Gyeongju (B) 50km
Bike to Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom (57 BC - AD 935).
Along the way, you will visit the Tomb of King Muyeol (603-661), who led Silla during its golden age of territorial expansion.
Consider biking up to Seokguram Grotto, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its intricate Buddhist sculptures.
The route involves a steady uphill climb through scenic forested paths, offering beautiful views along the way. Seokguram is home to the serene stone Buddha statue dating back to the eighth century. Inside the grotto, a white statue of a seated Buddha in a sublime state of enlightenment is surrounded by 37 relief figures of Bodhisattvas, disciples, devas, and guardian kings. The grotto beautifully represents the harmony of religion, science, and the arts of Buddhism, symbolizing the pure land where Buddha resides. While the ascent can be moderately challenging, the peaceful surroundings and cultural significance make the effort well worth it.
Day 17 Gyeongju (B)
Biek tour leadss to the UNESCO World Heritage site, Bulguksa Temple, where you can admire impressive gates and symbolic bridges leading up to the world of Buddha. The temple features graceful architecture, including the famous Three-storied Seokgatap and the highly ornate Dabotap pagodas, blending seamlessly into a harmonious design.
At Gwaneumjeon Hall, do not miss the image of Avalokitesvara, known as the Bodhisattva of Compassion, depicted with a thousand hands and eyes, symbolizing the ability to reach out to those in need. You will also see a gilded statue of Vairocana Buddha, making the first wisdom gesture, the statue of Sakyamuni Buddha, and sixteen figures of Buddha’s disciples sitting in deep meditation. Additionally, there is a gilt-bronze Amitabha Buddha, ruler of the Western Paradise, Sukhavati. The architectural design of Bulguksa embodies dignity, peace, and harmony, making it one of the most remarkable achievements of the ancient Far East.
The Gyeongju Historic Areas contain a remarkable concentration of outstanding examples of Korean Buddhist art, in the form of sculptures, reliefs, pagodas, and the remains of temples and palaces from the flowering, in particular between the 7th and 10th centuries, of this form of unique artistic expression.
Visit Gyeongju National Museum for a great insight into Silla culture and history. The first thing that you will notice is The Bell of King Seongdeok, the largest extant bell in Korea. You must certainly stand in awe before the bell from the 8th century with such artistic beauty of design. The bell is distinguished not only for its outstanding beauty but also for its long reverberating sound, the incredibly precise casting technique, in addition to the sad legend surrounding it. On entering the museum, you will marvel at the priceless archaeological and historical artifacts including splendid gold crowns, earrings, belts, ornaments, glassware, potteries, and clay figures as well as a royal barge.
You also check out the world's oldest existing astronomical observatory, Cheomseongdae. Each stone used in the observatory bears symbolic meaning; the same number of the days of the year by lunar calendar, the number of the major stars, the months of the year and the numbers of the seasonal divisions. Nearby Tumuli Park encompasses 23 huge tomb mounds where Silla rulers were buried. One of the tombs, Cheonmachong, is opened to the public and you can go inside and see how the tombs were made and replicas of the treasures excavated in 1973.
Day 18 Gyeongju - Eonyang - Yangsan - Busan (B) 110km
Your final day’s ride takes you through a variety of terrain, including major roads, quiet country lanes, and peaceful farm roads. The last 35km follow a scenic riverside bikeway from Yangsan into the heart of Busan.
While in Yangsan, you cannnot miss famous Tongdosa temple from the 7th century, representing the Temple of the Buddha. The approach to the temple is completely entrancing. Magnificently set by a lane of pine trees dancing in the wind and beside which a mountain stream sings a babbling song, a distinctive and exalting place. The main worship hall is unique in that it does not contain a statue of the Buddha, but rather a window looking out onto the Diamond Precepts Altar with a bell-shaped stupa that contains the cremated remains of the Buddha himself. You will find the temple more like a museum as it houses many local treasures and cultural properties.
Your journey ends at the Nakdong River Estuary Barrage, and impressive structure managing water flow bnetween the river and the sea.
Day 19 Busan (B)
Busan is Korea’s second-largest city, uniquely situated between the mountains and the sea.
With its deep harbor and calm tides, Busan has grown into Korea’s largest port and the fifth busiest in the world.
As a major center of commerce and industry, the city pulses with energy and culture.
You will tour Yongdusan Park where Busan Tower sits atop a hillock of a steep slope, affording 360-degree views of the hilly terrain of this mountainous coastal city and the harbor.
Just off the park is Gwangbokro Street, full of shops selling everything from bargains to luxury items. Adjacent is a maze of small streets alive with color, sidewalks sprinkled with unique shops and local eateries. Enjoy the vibrant ambience as you leisurely make your way to the BIFF square, Busan’s modern movie district having hand prints of the famous movie stars and directors on the sidewalk, movie theaters, trendy shops and street food stalls. The area with originally little more than a pair of cinemas that were built over half a century ago had turned into the newly transformed district, and was named BIFF Square on August 14, 1996.
Across the street from the square is a fascinating Jagalchi fish market, a great attraction located dockside. Here you will find a diverse array of seafood on display as you walk along the narrow alleys of street vendors. A nearby indoor market features live fish in the tanks and the upstairs are dried fish along with many restaurants selling raw fish at reasonable prices. The market is really a visual and culinary treat.
Next up
is Gamcheon Culture Village. Nestled along the foothills of a coastal mountain, this village is often referred to as the "Machu Picchu of Busan" or the "Lego Village" due to its steep hills, narrow alleys, and brightly painted houses stacked in a staircase-like fashion.
Day 20 Busan - Seoul (B) 460km
With leisurely time to pack, return on a speed train to Seoul. Today, you will have a plenty of time to explore Seoul at your own or shop for souvenirs.
Day 21 Departure (B) 60km
After this wonderful trip exploring Korea and with time to reflect on your surprise in your experience, transfer to the airport in time for your flight check in. By boarding, you are already high above Incheon heading for home.
