7 Recommended Natural Parks in Gyeonggi Province for a Refreshing Summer Getaway
[Reporter Kim Yeon-hong]
As summer vacation approaches, many people are eager to escape the sweltering heat. You don't have to travel far to enjoy nature; Gyeonggi Province is home to crystal-clear valleys, lush primeval forests, and spectacular geological sites with millions of years of history. From provincial parks rich in history and ecology to city and county parks with refreshing valleys, here are seven natural parks in Gyeonggi Province that are perfect for family and romantic outings this summer.
Three Gyeonggi Provincial Parks: A Meeting of History and Pristine Forests
???? Namhan Mountain Fortress Provincial Park (Gwangju, Seongnam, Hanam) - A Phytoncide Forest Path Along the UNESCO World Heritage Fortress Trail
The Namhan Mountain Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a place steeped in historical tragedy and national defense, making it the premier healing nature park in the metropolitan area. The centuries-old pine forest along the fortress trail provides ample shade, allowing for cool summer strolls.
Especially around the palace and along the fortress path, many preserved areas have good airflow, resulting in lower temperatures and a refreshing environment compared to urban areas. If you want to enjoy both historical exploration and a refreshing forest bath, this park is highly recommended.
???? Yeoninsan Provincial Park (Gapyeong) - Water Fun and Healing in the Pristine Yongchu Valley
The clear and cool waters of Yongchu Valley in Yeoninsan Provincial Park offer a perfect summer retreat. Known as the 'Mountain Where Love Comes True,' this park is located in Gapyeong, a representative clean area of the metropolitan region. Yongchu Valley, with its jade-clear waters and stunning rock formations, is one of the top summer destinations in Gyeonggi Province.
The hiking trail along Yongchu Valley provides ample shade with lush vegetation, and there are safe spots for children to enjoy water play. Let the refreshing sounds of the valley wash away your daily stress.
???? Surisan Provincial Park (Gunpo, Anyang, Ansan) - Eco-Friendly Forest Retreat Near the City
Surisan, spanning Gunpo, Anyang, and Ansan, boasts excellent accessibility, even by subway. With stunning rock formations like Byeongpung Rock and Seulgi Peak, the park offers beautiful scenery without demanding hiking trails.
The clear streams flowing through each valley and well-maintained walking paths make it an ideal destination for light weekend outings. Enjoy a refreshing forest bath close to the city, escaping the summer heat.
Two City and County Parks: Majestic Mountains and Cool Valleys
???? Cheonmasan County Park (Namyangju) - Pure Nature with Dense Foliage and Wildflowers
At 812 meters above sea level, Cheonmasan is known for its majestic mountain range and dense forests, often referred to as 'the mountain that touches the sky.' In summer, the park showcases even deeper and greener foliage.
Clear waters flow down each valley, cooling off hikers, while various wildflowers bloom along the forest paths, adding to the joy of ecological exploration. The well-maintained trails and resting areas near the valleys are popular among nature lovers.
???? Myeongjisan County Park (Gapyeong) - The Aesthetic of Majestic Waterfalls and Valleys in Gyeonggi Province
Myeongjisan is the second-highest mountain in Gyeonggi Province, featuring numerous clean and abundant valleys, such as Myeongji Valley and Ikgeunri Valley. In summer, the park offers spectacular views of roaring waterfalls and ancient forests, creating an ideal summer getaway.
The gentle incline of the deck path leading from the valley entrance allows families to enjoy a leisurely stroll, while the cool, deep waters of the valley completely erase the summer heat.
Two Geological Parks: Nature Sculpted Over Millions of Years
???? Hantan River UNESCO Global Geopark (Pocheon, Yeoncheon) - Majestic Columnar Joints and Waterfalls Formed by Lava
The Hantan River is Korea's first UNESCO Global Geopark formed along a river. It features basalt columnar joints and cliffs formed by lava flow hundreds of thousands of years ago, along with stunning waterfalls like the Pigeon Falls and Jaein Falls.
The magnificent basalt valleys, contrasting with the lush green trees in summer, create an illusion of being in a foreign destination. Experience the ancient natural wonders while crossing the Hantan River Columnar Joint Trail and suspension bridge, feeling the refreshing breeze.
???? Hwaseong National Geopark (Hwaseong) - From Dinosaur Egg Fossil Sites to Coastal Geology and Sea Breezes
Hwaseong National Geopark, the only national geopark on the metropolitan coast, encompasses unique geological sites, including dinosaur egg fossil sites in Songsan, Jejudo, Gukhwado, and Ipado.
The expansive dinosaur egg fossil site among the reeds offers exotic views, while the coastal walking paths on Jejudo are perfect for enjoying the cool sea breeze. Experience the charm of marine geological exploration, different from mountains and valleys.
This summer, why not escape the sweltering urban heat and enjoy a refreshing and safe vacation in one of Gyeonggi Province's natural parks, where rich nature and ecology thrive? The sounds of clear valley waters, phytoncide-filled forest paths, and stunning landscapes shaped by millions of years of history will revitalize your weary daily life. Take a light step into nature in Gyeonggi Province with your loved ones!
Source :https://blog.naver.com/gyeonggi_gov/224377389507
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