Enjoy the Hidden Treasures of Jeju

Visitors to Jeju often picture the island's trademark foliage at Mt. Halla and mouthwatering tangerines as mainstays of a trip to the island at this time of the year. But there's so much more to do and see this season just off the beaten trail.

◆ Silver Grass Fields

Jeju is blanketed with gorgeous silver grass all over the island, and the most scenic spot to see it is Sangumburi oreum, a volcanic formation.

The oreum lures visitors because it has an easy hiking trail, making it a perfect place for families with little children and couples who want to have relaxing, romantic moments. It is the only oreum with a crater.

Other attractions include iconic stonewalls, traditional tombs and forest trails, so be sure to leave plenty of time to enjoy this locale.

◆ 'Tree Tunnel' Drive

Jeju boasts hundreds of scenic drives, with the coastal routes perhaps the best of the best. A road, which connects the island's two cities -- Jeju and Seogwipo -- is a must-see with its lines of green trees. It's most known for a 1.2-km section called "tree tunnel," where drivers can enjoy exquisite views of Mt. Halla.

Stopping to take in the views is a challenge since there is no parking available, so those who enjoy a more leisurely pace should take bikes or motorcycles to best enjoy the views.

◆ Halla Eco-Forest

Jeju also boasts wide botanical diversity from temperate to alpine plants, and this diversity is all captured in the protected territory of Halla Eco-Forest. The attraction opened in 2009 after 12 years of work to restore a national forest damaged by grazing livestock.

The forest's 4.2-km trail is an enjoyable and efficient way to experience the?forest in all its breadth. The observatory, located at the forest's entrance, offers a different perspective with a panoramic view of Mt. Halla and the downtown area.

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