THE RUGGED SPLENDOUR OF GANGWON

SOUTH KOREA’S NATURAL GEM IS WAITING TO BE DISCOVERED

With craggy mountains, ancient temples, an unspoiled coastline and a chance to gaze across the most fortified border on the planet, Gangwon Province promises to tantalise the senses while simultaneously soothing the soul

Dominated by the rocky rise of the Taebaek Mountains, Gangwon is South Korea’s largest and most remote province. This sparsely populated region is subject to harsh winters and has traditionally been a tough place to scratch out a living. The people, however, are known for their resilience and generosity, and the region they call home features some of the peninsula’s most pristine natural wonders.

Top reasons to visit

Once considered South Korea’s least accessible corner, Gangwon has recently seen tourism blossom. This is largely due to the construction of speedy transportation links for the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympic Games. The once-lengthy trip from Seoul can now be done in under two hours, making it easy for visitors to soak up the region’s myriad charms. Whether it’s outdoor thrills, hot springs, buzzing street markets, beachside cafes or the serenity of its many Buddhist temples, Gangwon offers up a smorgasbord of experiences, including a glimpse into the DMZ, one of the last vestiges of the Cold War.

Hit the slopes