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SPECIAL INTEREST

Bike 900 18 days

Tips on Korean names
Expressway - 고속국도
National Road - 국도
Provincial Road - 지방도
City. County Road - 시. 군도
Other Road - 기타도로
Railroad - 철도
Bike Lane, Bike Path, Bikeway - 자전거도로
Sharp curve - 급커브
Steep gradient - 급경사

Usually named with following Korean suffixes stand for
Ro (로) - Road or Street
Daero (대로) - Main Street or Thoroughfare
Gil (길) - Road or Street
Ri (리) - Village
Maeul (마을) - Village
Dong (동) - Administrative unit in the city or village
Myeon (면) - Small County
Eup (읍) - Large County
Gun (군) - Administrative unit covering Myeon and Eup
Si (시) - City
Do (도) - Province
Cheong (청) - Office of Gun, Si or Do
Samuso (사무소) - Office
Samgeori (삼거리) - Fork or Junction
T Junction (T자형 삼거리)
Gyocharo (교차로) - Crossroads or Intersection
Sageori (사거리) - Crossroads or Intersection
Negeori (네거리) - Crossroads or Intersection
Nadeulmok (나들목) - Interchange
Gyo (교) - Bridge
Daegyo (대교) - Long Bridge
Yeok (역) - Subway station, Railroad station
Tunnel (터널) - Tunnel
Jihado (지하도) - Underpass
Guldari (굴다리) - Underpass
Jae (재) - Pass or Hill
Ryeong (령) - Mountain pass

Tours are offered on a limited basis due the program focuses on the cycling itself through safer road navigation.
Accommodations are planned in small hotels or pensions. They are ubiquitous and economical.
Supporting vehicle with guide is provided.
Road signs are almost always in English as well as Hangeul.
Language is less of a problem than it might seem - many people understand some English.
Riding on any of the major roads can be dangerous, exhausting and frustrating.
Traffic in general has little respect for your cycling plight, so extra causion required as always.
E-bikes available on requst.

Note
Any figures like distance, times or road conditions stated in the bicycling program are estimate and just for guideline purpose

You need to understand you are responsible for your safety and health

Riding at proper speed, yielding right-of-way, not riding while under the influence of alcohol

The ride is strictly during the day, not before sunrise or after sunset

The riding will not be arranged on bad weather conditions such as extremely hot, cold, windy, foggy or rainy days. In such case, supporting vehicle cares the transportation of your bicycles

We provide bicycles and a set of fixing tool for the group

You are required to bring your helmet, highly visible or reflective clothing for low-visibility conditions

Cyclists need to follow the same rules as motorists

Always use correct hand signals before turning

Ride in single file with traffic, not against it

Bikeways are well established in areas, but much of roads are sharing with pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists. You need to understand how to safely and courteously share the road

Bicyclists need to be aware of their surroundings. Watch for opening car doors, sewer grating, debris on the roads, uneven surfaces, and poorly lit tunnels.

Click on the days to access the programs quick

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.

Upon check in, pick up your bike and time for fitting.
Pedals, cleats, cycling shoes, crank arm length, saddle selection, height, fore/aft and tilt, handlebars, brake levers, etc.
A proper bike fit is essential so that you can produce the most power, most efficiently, meaning you have a position on the bike that lets you ride as long as you want, and stay comfortable the entire time.
The evening 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 - Ungilsan Station - Cheongpyeong - Gapyeong (- - -) 86km
The riding of the day is mainly on the scenic bikeway along the Bukhangang river, roughly break into three sectors, Banpo to Ungilsan station (41km), Unglisan station to Sincheongpyeong Daegyo Bridge (23km) and from the bridge to Gapyeong (22km). Start your trip at Banpo and head up to Paldang bridge (팔당대교) on a traffic free bikeway. As you cross the bridge, the route picks up an old railway line leading to Ungilsan station and all the way to Gapeyong (가평), 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 (- - -) 60km
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 (32km) is a bikeway which is pretty flat and pleasant. You will cycle through roads that offer impressive landscapes, crossing charming villages. While in Chuncheon, cross Sinmaedaegyo bridge (신매대교) and make a right turn to join the bikeway along the river. Take a road 403 at Sindong Samgeori (신동삼거리) where bikeway ends and a challenging mountain trail begins. You will encounter Budari Tunnel (2,067m) on Road 403. So far, on the left side of the road near the tunnel entrance, there is a paved old road which is barricaded to block the traffics. After 2.5km biking on this road, turn right to Samhwari and finally Hwacheon for 28km.

Day 5 Hwacheon - Peace Dam - Bangsan (- - -) 50km
The word of the day is Road 460 highlighted by a long stretch of climbs and then descents with a degree of valleys. The day will be a relentless series of sweaty grunts and groans uphill followed often by a tunnel. About 16km of cycling in the gentle river valley ends up at Pungsan 2 ri (풍산2리), and by making a right turn, a challenging 34km journey continues. The road elevation abruptly rises up and villages or farmlands are seldom seen, but only get the feeling of locked in the mountains. It generally has very light traffic volumes so the lack of development of this remote area. Be prepared for a series of tunnels. Although they are well lit and have adequate shoulders, a tail reflector and a flashing rear light would be necessary.

Past Haesan tunnel (1.986m), which is the northernmost tunnel and built on the highest elevation in South Korea, then followed by Jaean tunnel (142m), Daebung tunnel (270m), and view the Peace Dam, 125m high and 601m wide. It was built to stave off possible catastrophic flooding should the upstream Imnam Dam in North Korea collapse, either intentionally or by accident. The dam was completed in 2005. As it stands, the dam has no reservoir, and is merely preventive.

Take time to see World Peace Bell that was made from empty cartridge cases gathered from the world’s conflict zones in that it carries a significant meaning. The bell weights 37.5 ton but is incomplete. Check out a broken pigeon wing that is on display near the bell. It will be added bringing the bell complete on the day of unification of Korea.

There is a Water Culture Center. Although it is small, an excellent facility to get familiar with the story of water, and the importance of water conservation. After a short downhill and valley ride, a challenging uphill continues again. More tunnels including Pyeonghwa (173m), Yanghwa (329m), Ocheon (1,280m), and Dogo are on the way before allowing you to get to Bangsan. A long stretches uninterrupted by intersections and stop signs, the roadway gives you a feeling of being slightly more remote than does the river valleys. The trails are scenic and give a good sense of quiet even on week days.

Day 6 Bangsan - Haean (- - -) 38km
Road 460, Road 31 and Road 453 are the trails for the day.
Mountains are endless and still high. Past the villages like Omi, Geumak, Jangpyeong and Gobangsan. Shortly after Dogo tunnel (639m), make a left turn to jump on the Road 31 to the direction of Haean. After a short ride in the valley that hugs tiny villages like Deokgok, Imdang and Wolwun, take a Road 453 at the last fork before Wolwun reservoir and head on to Haean. Another challenge is Dosolsan mountain that stands high ahead. Part of the Dolsanryeong is 1,050 mhigh. Nothing like a never ending hill to finish your day. After the pass is a welcoming Punch Bowl, a natural geologic bowl several kilometers across ringed by steep mountains on four sides, The bowl creates the richest farmland, and the area is starkly beautiful. However, many fierce battles were fought here during the Korean War because of its strategic location. The Battle of Bloody Ridge took place here from August to September 1951 and this was followed by the Battle of Heartbreak Ridge from September to October 1951, meanwhile the 1st Marine Division reinforced by the Korean Marine Corps Regiment captured the line of hills in the Battle of the Punch Bowl from 31 August to 20 September 1951.

Day 7 Haean (- - -)
Day at leisure for refreshment. You may want to join the tour coverng the 4th tunnel dug secretly by the North and Eulji Observatory. The tour does not run on Mondays. The 4th tunnel was found on March 3, 1990. The tunnel is dug through the solid granite base in the depth of 145 meters underground. The tunnel stretches 2.1km southward across the Military Demarcation Line. Unlike three other tunnels, visitors will make a short monorail trip inside the tunnel.

Eulji Observatory is set one of the bitterest battlegrounds fought in the Korean War. Perched on a peak rising 1049m above sea level near the Military Demarcation Line, it is now one of the most informative relics dating back to the Korean Conflict. From the Eulji Observation Platform, North Korea soldiers on guard are visible.

Day 8 Haean - Wontong - Hangyeryeong - Girin (- - -) 74km
The itinerary will take you through small villages, filled with tradition and with the special charm of the people who inhabit them.
A 30km of a gentle winding valley with couple of hills extends to Wontong. At Wontong roundabout, take a Wontongro and proceed to the Wontong Gyocharo (원통교차로). Jump on Road 44. About 3km ahead is another junction, Hangye Gyochar (한계교차로). Take a Road 46 to Hangyeryeong. A strenuous cycling of 20km on a slope way continues to Hangyeryong pass (920m) and then steep descend of about 700m. Do not miss this point. Here, take a Phillaro to the right and continue 11km down to the junction and jump on Road 31 to cross the Garisan 1 gyo Bridge (가리산 1교) to the left. About 700m ahead is another junction. Take a left fork and ride 13km to Girin.

Day 9 Girn - Misan Valley - Unduryeong - Soksa - Jinbu (- - -) 86km
Today is one of the most challenging rides of the tour. But, the autumn here is unique thanks to its colors and contrasts, creating a beautiful and cozy landscape. The steep mountains and winding roads along the stream encourage you to pedal on your bike harder. The harder you pedal the more spectacular scenes you can see. A steep Omijae Passs (684m) and pleasant downhill riding with scenic gentle valleys. Then, journey on a Road 31 for 25km over Unduryeong Pass (1,089m) to Soksa Samgeori (속사삼거리). Turn left and continue on to Jinbu for 10km on a combination road of Soksajaegil (6km) and Gyeonggangro (4km). A chain of mountains stand high and valleys are sparsely dotted with tiny yet peaceful retired villages..

Day 10 Jinbu - Jeongseon - Hwaam (- - -) 64km
The mountains are still high and the roadways are winding along the river valleys. Overall elevation is low and the slope is gentle downhill to Jeongseon. However, three tunnels await. You are escorted by supporting vehicle in the tunnels.

Day 11 Hwaam - Taebaek (- - -) 42km
Path finding seems to be difficult, but not really it is. Overall elevation is gentle expcpt Samsuryeong pass. Your cycling is a true connection with the natural space. In addition, sharing unique moments with your locals and learning more about their lifestyle. A delight for all your senses, an immersion into the traditional towns with unique charm. A challenging day with endless mountains and winding valleys. A short detour gets you to Hwaam mineral springs. At Samsuryeong Pass, highland cabbage farms along with a group of wind power turbines also await you. While in Taebakek, tour the source of Nakdong river. Hwangji pond, springing up 5,000 tons of water daily.

Day 12 Taebaek - Andong (- - -) 123km
Winding uphills prevent your advance. The first part of the riding in Taebaek is on a crowded rushing 2-lane road. Then followed by steep mountain path. The nature is beautiful, but roadway is rather narrow yet risky with speeding traffics. Having made a right turn at Yuksongjeong Samgeori, an endless winding Neutjae hill (896m) continues up to 11Km. Then, a steep descend goes to Taebaekro. After a short rejoin, exit to Goseonri villages after passing Goseon tunnel. Then, exit again to Goseon 2 ri until you get to Hyeondong Samgeori (현동삼거리). A bit complicated though, make a left turn at this Samgeori continue your way through the town up to Hyeondong tunnel (현동터널) for about 1Km. Before the tunnel, take a right fork to join local road (Imgiro) running by the winding stream. From there on, the cycling difficulty is moderate all the way to Dosanseowon Confucian Academy from the 16th century. With time to visit, on to Andong

Day 13 Andong (B)
You will have plenty of opportunity to explore the city with a choice of options. Exploring Andong on a bike or touring on a supporting vehicle. Andong Folk Museum offers in-depth information of traditional life and illustrating traditional Confucian culture. The museum exhibits a variety of legacies relating mainly to four cardinal ceremonies, coming of an age, wedding, funeral, ancestral memorial service, as well as dozens of pieces of pottery, utensils, clothing, farming tools and traditional folk games in small models.

Enjoy the local ambience exploring the market selling a wide array of merchandises, vegetables, fishes and fruits. At the one end of the market is an alley specializing in braised chicken. It’s savory, mildly salty and sweet with a very subtle spicy kick. Perhaps you may want to try it. The neighboring blocks are filled with fancy stores, cafes and restaurants. The atmosphere are very welcoming.

There is a Confucian Land that offers a chance to experience the culture of Confucianism.

Day 14 Andong - Hahoe - Mungyeong (B) 96km
Biking tour to Hahoe to explore UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hahoemaul from the 15th century. It is the best preserved traditional village portraying and spanning the life of the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910) and some 480 Korean traditional houses, both large and small, are still fully functioning. As you take a walk in the narrow alleys, enjoy the rustic and old charm of this unique village. You cannot possibly miss a 600-years old zelkova tree, the home to the village spirit. At the tree's base is where residents still make their wishes. The village is also known for traditional festival, Hahoe Mask Dance which gave common people the opportunity to mock those in authority, and in particular the Byeolsingut, a shaman ritual exorcising evil spirits, dating back to the Goryeo dynasty (918-1392). With time to visit, continue your way Mungyeong (61km) mostly on a bikeway. The tour goes along Nakdong river to Mungyeong on a flat bikeway.

Day 15 Mungyeong - Suanbo (- - -) 53km
The day is challenging with uphills in part. First of 6.5km from Mungyeong Pottery Museum to Ihwaryeong pass and again 6.4km from Eunhaengjeong Gyocharo (은행정교차로) to Sojoryeong.
After two steep ascends, you are welcomed by small town famous for hot springs.

Day 16 Suanbo - Chungju - Yeoju (- - -) 85km
You will enjoy a pleasant bikepath along the winding Namhangang river with some exception of vehicle-sharing roadways. Chungju Jungangtap Tower can be visited en route. The bike path is well established and the elevation is moderate.

Day 17 Yeoju - Yangpyeong - Ungilsan Station - Seoul (B) 53km
While in Yeoju, you will stop at Silleuksa temple. Then, the journey continues along the river passing a number of tunnels exclusively for cyclists. As you arrive at Ungilsan station where you set out your biking, your adventure terminates.
You are transferred to Seoul for about 45km.

Day 18 Departure (B) 60km
After this wonderful trip exploring Korea and with time to reflect on your surprise in your experience, you will return to the airport in time for your flight. By boarding, you are already high above Incheon heading for home.