Source: iStock
There is an island that, unknown to most, is bringing tourism to South Korea. It is Ulleungdo, located in the Eastern Sea (East Sea), 120 kilometers from the mainland: a mysterious, wild island. Which, today, we also read in the travel diaries of Western tourists.
South Koreans – especially nature lovers – have known Ulleungdo as a holiday destination for some time. But, now, even international travelers are starting to discover this island that can be reached with two and a half hours by train da Pohang a Gangneung e con three and a half hours by ferry in a very often rough sea. But, at the end of this tortuous journey, his eyes are rewarded: Ulluengdo really is one of the most beautiful islands on earth.
Island volcanic with its fascinating rock formations, cedar forests and juniper woods, it is home to a handful of fishing villages and is considered the most spiritual destination in South Korea. But why is it nicknamed “the island of mystery”? For its mystical energy: Ulluengdo is believed to have formed 2.5 million years ago following a volcanic eruption, and is today considered sacred. «For most of its history, the island was uninhabited and very difficult to reach, which allowed its ecosystem and primitive nature to be preserved. So, a certain spiritual aura has been added to its reputation,” Jang Yunhee, tour guide at Toursungingbong, told CNN.
Today, about 10 thousand people live in Ulleungdo, where in spring and summer fishing and tourism flourish but the winters are extremely harsh, with heavy snowfalls: reaching it during the cold months is difficult due to the conditions of its sea, but some daredevils do it to come here to ski and to admire an almost surreal panorama. But what can you see if you arrive on the island when the climate is favourable?
Basically, you come to Ulleungdo for its nature. There are on its territory numerous paths, coastal and inland: the most famous is the Gwaneum Island, a one-hour walk that allows you to reach – via a suspended pedestrian bridge – the small island of Gwaneumdo, covered in ancient forests. The more sporty can instead reach Seonginbong, the highest peak on the island: follow the Nari Basin Forest Trail and, once you reach the top, you can enjoy a spectacular view. Or, there is the excursion that leads up to Bognaepokpo waterfalls.
But there's more than just hiking to do here: Ulleungdo is a popular spot for diving, fishing and swimming. You can take a boat and circumnavigate the island taking advantage of one of the three hour tour which several companies offer from May to November and which depart from Dodong port (some even offer the possibility of fishing). Divers can then choose its crystal clear waters for diving: here visibility is guaranteed at 20 – 30 meters all year round, but you can often see up to 50. The best time? Between August and October.
In Ulleungdo, then, there is also space for gastronomy: the typical delicacy is the Dokdo shrimp, followed by the vegetables that grow spontaneously in its mountains and the "tiger steak", obtained from rare cows streaked with black and orange.
There are various accommodations that the island offers: there are luxury resorts, guesthouses and - then - there is the brand new KOSMOS Healing Stay, with an incredible design. A unique living experience in a place that is unique in the world.
