The Jeju Olle Trail is a network of walking routes that loops around the island's coast and rises inland through villages, fields and small volcanic cones. The word olle is a local term for the narrow lane that leads from a house to the village street. The routes are numbered, with a handful of sub-routes, and together they cover more than four hundred kilometres, though no one walks them all at once. Each route is designed to be walked in a day, passing beaches, harbours, tangerine groves and viewpoints, with ribbons and arrows in blue and orange showing the way. The routes are free to walk, and the trail foundation offers route maps, a stamp passport and guidance on its website. It is the best way to meet Jeju slowly and independently.
How to walk it
Pick one route for the day rather than trying a big chunk. Each is a few hours long and well marked with blue and orange ribbons and arrows, with blue showing the main direction and orange showing the reverse. Look at a route's length and difficulty before you commit, and start early so you finish in daylight. Some routes are easy coastal strolls, while others climb small hills and cross rougher ground. Use the foundation's maps to plan your starting and finishing points and the transport back.
Choosing a stretch
East-coast routes pass close to Seongsan, the fishing villages and beaches, and make a lovely half-day with Gwangchigi and the shoreline views. Routes around Seogwipo on the south coast combine sea cliffs, harbours and waterfalls and are easy to reach from town hotels. West-coast routes offer big sunsets and open ocean views. Route 7 around Seogwipo is a popular choice, and Route 1 on the east side is an easy introduction. Check each route's current status on the foundation's site, because sections can be temporarily rerouted after storms.
Practical advice
Carry water and snacks, wear proper walking shoes and bring sun and rain protection, because weather changes fast. Villages along the way have small shops and cafes, but not always where you need them. Taxis and local buses can bring you back to the start. Walking in autumn and spring gives the most comfortable weather, summer is hot and humid, and winter can be windy. Combine a short walking route with sights such as Cheonjiyeon Waterfall, Jusangjeolli Cliffs or Seongsan Ilchulbong for a day with both walking and sightseeing.
What to expect
The experience
A self-guided walk along a waymarked route, with blue and orange ribbons and arrows showing the way.
Best time
Spring and autumn mornings, starting early enough to finish before dark.
How long
Three to seven hours depending on the route you choose.
Tips
Check the route's length and status on the trail foundation's site, carry water and plan how you will get back to your start.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Independent walkers who want to see Jeju slowly, away from the tour buses.
- Families
- Choose a short, flat coastal stretch for children and keep the day light.
- Couples
- Pick a coastal route with a sunset finish and a seafood dinner nearby.
- Pair with
- Cheonjiyeon Waterfall, Jusangjeolli Cliffs and Seongsan Ilchulbong.
- Time needed
- Plan a half day for a short route or a full day for a long one.
Good questions
What is the Olle Trail?+
It is a network of waymarked walking routes around Jeju's coast and countryside. The routes are numbered and each is designed for a day's walk.
Do I need to pay to walk it?+
The routes themselves are free to walk. The trail foundation offers maps and a stamp passport through its website and visitor centres.
How are the routes marked?+
With blue and orange ribbons and arrows, where blue shows the main direction and orange the reverse. Follow them carefully and check your map at junctions.
Which route should I choose first?+
Pick a short coastal route near your hotel, such as one around Seogwipo or on the east side near Seongsan. Check length and difficulty on the foundation's site.
When is the best time to walk?+
Spring and autumn are the most comfortable, with clearer skies and milder weather. Summer is hot and humid, and winter can be windy.
