Go Bicycle Touring in South Korea

South Korea is a country consisting of the southern half of the Korean Peninsula, it has a population of fifty million people, and covers a total area of 100, 210 square kilometers. It is a world leader in innovation, and is the world’s largest exporter of goods. It also has the world’s fastest internet connection, and is geographically diverse. Most of the country’s population live in it’s capital city of Seoul. Most of it’s terrain is largely mountainous and there are over three thousand islands situated off the west and south coasts – most of which are uninhabited.

From a cycling perspective, South Korea is one of the world’s most diverse locations for bike touring. From it’s sprawling capital of Seoul, to the outer regions of the country, which is largely mountainous. South Korea’s national parks provide nature, and a unique look at the country.
South Korea  also boasts a relatively new set of multi-purpose trails, commissioned in 2009 – which run throughout the four major rivers of South Korea – the Han River, Nakdong River, Geum River and Yeongsan River. This project is called the “4 Rivers Route”.

Popular Bike Tour Destinations In South Korea

• Seoul is South Korea’s capital, and one of the world’s most populated cities. The city’s outskirts are home to Namhansan Mountain Fortress, the Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, the Everland botanical greenhouses, and picturesque Korean folk villages. Seoul has it’s own bike-hire service, and is often the start point for any long-distance riders.

• The Hangang Parks of South Korea are dotted throughout the outskirts of Seoul. These parks offer numerous dedicated bike paths and various other sporting facilities. The perfectly paved bike paths take you through the outskirts of Seoul, keeping you in touch with the beautiful, natural side of South Korea’s sprawling metropolis.

• Andong is the home of Korean folk music. It also boasts many Confucian studies and academies, dating back to the Joseon Dynasty. The Nakdong river flows through the city, as does one of several dedicated and protected bicycle paths – the result of the above-mentioned 4 River Route. These trails make the city of Andong perfect for bicycle tourists and road cyclists.
• Jeju Province is an island province which lies in the Korea Strait. Two cities cut the island in half, horizontally. Jeju City – the province’s capital, and Seogwipo which makes up the southern half of the island. Jeju province is also home to volcanoes, the main volcano (and South Korea’s tallest mountain), named Halla-San lies dormant overlooking Jeju City. Due to it’s unique landscape, the island is popular among bicycle tourists who wish to catch a glimpse of a totally different side to the country.
• Gyeongju is a city located on South Korea’s southeastern coast. It is home to ancient South Korean architecture, including the Cheomseongdae Observatory, Seokguram grotto, the Gyeongju Tower, and the Bulguska Temple. Among the architectural marvels in the city, is the Yandong Folk Village, which is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Beyond the city limits, there are magnificent rolling hills – so, no matter whether you want to stay in the city (you can rent a bike to see the sights!), or go out into the countryside, Gyeongju allows you to do both from the saddle.