EXODUS DMC

tour
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SPECIAL INTEREST

Bike 900 18 days



Tour Highlights
  • Gyeongbokgung Palace
  • National Folk Museum of Korea
  • Insadong
  • Namdaemun Market
  • Peace Dam
  • The 4th Tunnel
  • Eulji Observatory
  • Hangyeryeong Pass
  • Misan Valley
  • Unduryeong Pass
  • Hwaam mineral spring
  • Hwangji Pond
  • Dosanseowon Confucian Academy
  • Hahoemaeul Village
  • Andong Folk Museum
  • Juangangtop Tower
  • Silleuksa Temple



Tips on Korean names

Expressway - °í¼Ó±¹µµ
National Road - ±¹µµ
Provincial Road - Áö¹æµµ
City. County Road - ½Ã. ±ºµµ
Other Road - ±âŸµµ·Î
Railroad - öµµ
Bike Lane, Bike Path, Bikeway - ÀÚÀü°Åµµ·Î
Sharp curve - ±ÞÄ¿ºê
Steep gradient - ±Þ°æ»ç

Usually named with following Korean suffixes stand for
Ro (·Î) - Road or Street
Daero (´ë·Î) - Main Street or Thoroughfare
Gil (±æ) - Road or Street
Ri (¸®) - Village
Maeul (¸¶À») - Village
Dong (µ¿) - Administrative unit in the city or village
Myeon (¸é) - Small County
Eup (À¾) - Large County
Gun (±º) - Administrative unit covering Myeon and Eup
Si (½Ã) - City
Do (µµ) - Province
Cheong (û) - Office of Gun, Si or Do
Samuso (»ç¹«¼Ò) - Office
Samgeori (»ï°Å¸®) - Fork or Junction
T Junction (TÀÚÇü »ï°Å¸®)
Gyocharo (±³Â÷·Î) - Crossroads or Intersection
Sageori (»ç°Å¸®) - Crossroads or Intersection
Negeori (³×°Å¸®) - Crossroads or Intersection
Nadeulmok (³ªµé¸ñ) - Interchange
Gyo (±³) - Bridge
Daegyo (´ë±³) - Long Bridge
Yeok (¿ª) - Subway station, Railroad station
Tunnel (ÅͳÎ) - Tunnel
Jihado (皂쵵) - Underpass
Guldari (±¼´Ù¸®) - Underpass
Jae (Àç) - Pass or Hill
Ryeong (·É) - Mountain pass

Tours are offered on a limited basis due the program focuses on the cycling itself through safer road navigation.
Accommodations are planned in small hotels or pensions. They are ubiquitous and economical.
Supporting vehicle with guide is provided.
Road signs are almost always in English as well as Hangeul.
Language is less of a problem than it might seem - many people understand some English.
Riding on any of the major roads can be dangerous, exhausting and frustrating.
Traffic in general has little respect for your cycling plight, so extra causion required as always.
E-bikes available on requst.



  Tour from April through October
   All meals paid locally unless otherwise specified
   Day backpack for anything you may need while cycling



  Tour facts and features
  Accommodation

 17 hotel and pension nights in 2 and 4 star twin share accommodation
 Single room avaialble at surcharge

  Meals  5 breakfasts
  Transport  All transportation by private vehicle, and supporting vehicle on riding
  Guided  Services of an English speaking guide
  Group size  Maximum 9
  Age range  21+
  Activity  Cycling of 15 days
  Degrees of difficulty  Very difficult

Note
Any figures like distance, times or road conditions stated in the bicycling program are estimate and just for guideline purpose

You need to understand you are responsible for your safety and health

Riding at proper speed, yielding right-of-way, not riding while under the influence of alcohol

The ride is strictly during the day, not before sunrise or after sunset

The riding will not be arranged on bad weather conditions such as extremely hot, cold, windy, foggy or rainy days. In such case, supporting vehicle cares the transportation of your bicycles

We provide bicycles and a set of fixing tool for the group

You are required to bring your helmet, highly visible or reflective clothing for low-visibility conditions

Cyclists need to follow the same rules as motorists

Always use correct hand signals before turning

Ride in single file with traffic, not against it

Bikeways are well established in areas, but much of roads are sharing with pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists. You need to understand how to safely and courteously share the road

Bicyclists need to be aware of their surroundings. Watch for opening car doors, sewer grating, debris on the roads, uneven surfaces, and poorly lit tunnels
.


Click on the days to access the programs quick

Days Visits and Activities Distance
Day 1 Arrive Seoul 60km
Day 2 Seoul  
Day 3 Seoul - Ungilsan Station - Cheongpyeong - Gapyeong 86km
Day 4 Gapyeong - Chuncheon - Hwacheon 60km
Day 5 Hwacheon - Peace Dam - Bangsan 50km
Day 6 Bangsan - Haean 38km
Day 7 Haean  
Day 8 Haean - Wontong - Hangyeryeong - Girin 74km
Day 9 Girn - Misan Valley - Unduryeong - Soksa - Jinbu 86km
Day 10 Jinbu - Jeongseon - Hwaam 64km
Day 11 Hwaam - Taebaek 42km
Day 12 Taebaek - Andong 123km
Day 13 Andong  
Day 14 Andong - Hahoe - Mungyeong 88km
Day 15 Mungyeong - Suanbo 55km
Day 16 Suanbo - Chungju - Yeoju 84km
Day 17 Yeoju - Ungilsan Station - Seoul 53km
Day 18 Departure 60km


Day 1 Arrive Seoul (- - -) 60km

Touching down at Incheon International Airport places you in the heart of Korea. After you clear Passport and Customs control, you will be welcomed by the tour guide and then transferred to your hotel.

Upon check in, pick up your bike and time for fitting.
Pedals, cleats, cycling shoes, crank arm length, saddle selection, height, fore/aft and tilt, handlebars, brake levers, etc.
A proper bike fit is essential so that you can produce the most power, most efficiently, meaning you have a position on the bike that lets you ride as long as you want, and stay comfortable the entire time.
The evening is yours to relax, allowing your mind and body time to adjust to different time zone.


Day 2 Seoul (B)
Your exploration this morning begins with a driving tour of Seoul, featuring sites such as Seoul Plaza, City Hall, Cheonggye Square and pedestrian-friendly Gwanghwamun Plaza that is hemmed in on three sides by rushing traffic.

Step back in time to when life was gracefully slow and
discover Gyeongbokgung Palace, a particularly charming spot that represents a colorful and turbulent side of the capital's 500-year history. Depending on timing, you may witness the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony featuring parade, password verification, duty shift and patrolling the gate. Accompanied by a court band with its colorful costumes and royal flags, the ceremony is performed daily basis at 10:00 and 14:00 except Tuesdays, although it is cancelled in case of rain or extremely hot or cold weather.

Your visit to the National Folk Museum of Korea will familiarize you with wealthy culture of this friendly and picturesque nation. It is an excellent facility to illustrate the history of traditional life of the Korean people from the prehistoric age to the Joseon dynasty. The permanent exhibition features life and work, costumes and ornaments, handicrafts and technology, educations, living quarters, dietary life, oriental medicine, performing arts and games, beliefs and rituals, and socio cultural life.


Insadong, at one time the center of traditional Korean art and antiques, features a mixture of historical and modern atmosphere representing the cultural glimpse of the nation. Clustered along the main street and alleys are lined with street vendors, wooden tea houses, restaurants and numerous galleries and shops dealing in antiques, oriental art supplies, and modern Korean art of all types and styles. Soak in the paintings, upscale artworks, antiques and potteries while you can. Get lucky and you just might meet the artist themselves. It can be plenty of fun walking on the main street, but you venture into the hidden alleys that do spring some unexpected surprises. While here, you may want to buy some souvenirs or simply wander and browse at leisure admiring cultural ambience.

You will tour the centuries-old Namdaemun Market brimming with well over 11,000 shops selling anything you can imagine. One of the most colorful aspects of the market is an endless sprawl of street-vendor stalls that setup in the alleys and walkways between the buildings. The market is seriously crowded, so be prepared to get bumped around. A fantastic place to haggle over the price to get the best deal on something you want or simply admire the vibrancy of this massive market.


At the western entrance of the market in the middle of a traffic circle stands Sungnyemun. It is a formidable and iconic construct that served as the southern gate of the wall that surrounded Seoul during the period of the Joseon Dynasty.

Day 3 Seoul - Ungilsan Station - Cheongpyeong - Gapyeong (- - -) 86km
The riding of the day is mainly on the scenic bikeway along the Bukhangang river, roughly break into three sectors, Banpo to Ungilsan station (41km), Unglisan station to Sincheongpyeong Daegyo Bridge (23km) and from the bridge to Gapyeong (22km). Start your trip at Banpo and head up to Paldang bridge on a traffic free bikeway. As you cross the bridge, the route picks up an old railway line leading to Ungilsan station and all the way to Gapeyong,
a beautiful town set by the mountains, rivers and lakes. It is one of the favorite relaxing and vacation destinations in the region.

Day 4 Gapyeong - Chuncheon - Hwacheon (- - -) 60km
Your onward tours cover most of the length of the country, enjoying a limited flat and rolling path to the the high mountain passes with a degree of valley every day. More suited for highly experienced bicyclists. The first part of the path to Chuncheon (32km) is a bikeway which is pretty flat and pleasant. You will cycle through roads that offer impressive landscapes, crossing charming villages.
From Chuncheon onward, the comfortable riverside bikeway disappears, giving way to a more rugged path with steep uphill sections. Cyclists should be ready for a tough ride through hilly terrain?though the scenic mountain views along the way make the effort worthwhile.

Day 5 Hwacheon - Peace Dam - Bangsan (- - -) 50km
The word of the day is Road 460 ? a route defined by long climbs, fast descents, and winding through deep mountain valleys.
Expect a relentless day of sweaty uphill grinds, often ending in a tunnel. The day begins with around 15km of gentle cycling through a serene river valley, ending at Pungsan 2-ri. From there, a right turn marks the start of a challenging ride through remote mountainous terrain.
The elevation rises steeply, and you'll notice a distinct lack of villages or farmland ? instead, you will feel completely immersed in the mountains. The road sees very light traffic, largely due to the area's remoteness and limited development. Be ready for a series of tunnels. Though they are well-lit and have adequate shoulders, it's essential to have a tail reflector and a flashing rear light for added safety.

Standing 125 meters high and 601 meters wide, the dam was completed in 2005 as a preventive measure against potential flooding in the event of a collapse of the Imnam Dam in North Korea. Notably, the Peace Dam does not hold a reservoir ? it's purely a precautionary structure.

Make sure to stop by the World Peace Bell, crafted from empty cartridge cases collected from global conflict zones. Weighing 37.5 tons, the bell is a symbol of peace but remains incomplete. A broken pigeon wing, displayed nearby, will be added to the bell on the day of Korean unification ? a powerful reminder of hope and reconciliation.

Day 6 Bangsan - Haean (- - -) 38km
Today's trails follow Roads 460, 31, and 453 - a rugged, mountainous route with no shortage of climbs.
The mountains feel endless, rising steeply with each passing kilometer. You will pass small villages like Omi, Geumak, Jangpyeong, and Gobangsan, nestled quietly in the valleys.
The day¡¯s toughest challenge still lies ahead: Mount Dosolsan, with parts of the Dolsanryeong Pass reaching 1,050 meters in elevation. There¡¯s nothing quite like a seemingly never-ending uphill climb to close out your day.
Once you cross the pass, you're rewarded with a stunning sight ? the Punch Bowl, a massive, natural geologic basin encircled by steep mountains on all sides. Several kilometers wide, this bowl creates some of the richest farmland in the region and offers stark, breathtaking views.
However, this peaceful-looking landscape hides a dramatic history. Due to its strategic location, the Punch Bowl was the site of intense battles during the Korean War:

Day 7 Haean (- - -)
Take a break and enjoy a leisurely day to refresh. For those interested in history and geopolitics, you may want to join a guided tour to the 4th Infiltration Tunnel and Eulji Observatory - a powerful reminder of the Korean Peninsula's divided past.
Please note: the tour does not operate on Mondays.
Discovered on March 3, 1990, the 4th Tunnel was secretly dug by North Korea through solid granite, reaching a depth of 145 meters underground. Stretching 2.1 kilometers south of the Military Demarcation Line, this tunnel was designed for a surprise military invasion.

Unlike the first three infiltration tunnels, visitors here take a short monorail ride into the tunnel, offering a unique and accessible way to experience this tense chapter of modern history.
Nearby, Eulji Observatory stands at a strategic peak 1,049 meters above sea level, one of the fiercest battlegrounds of the Korean War.
From the observation deck, it is possible to see North Korean guard posts and soldiers, making it one of the few places where the tension of the divided peninsula can be felt so vividly.
This tour is both sobering and educational - a rare opportunity to witness the ongoing legacy of the Korean War while appreciating the efforts toward peace and remembrance.

Day 8 Haean - Wontong - Hangyeryeong - Girin (- - -) 74km

The itinerary leads you through quaint, traditional villages filled with charm and the warm spirit of the people who live there.
From here, a 30km stretch of gentle, winding valley road - with a few rolling hills - leads you to Wontong. where you will join Road 44.
Approximately 3km ahead, you will arrive at Hangye Gyocharo. Here, switch to Road 46, which leads you toward Hangyeryeong Pass (920m).
Be prepared - this section is a strenuous 20km uphill ride, climbing steadily to Hangyeryeong Pass.
Do not miss this critical turn about 700m ahead, take Pillaero road to the right and continue downhill for 11km until you reach a junction.
At the junction, turn onto Road 31 and cross the Garisan 1-gyo Bridge on your left.
About 700 meters after the bridge, you will come to another fork - take the left and continue riding 13km to reach Girin, your destination for the day.

Day 9 Girn - Misan Valley - Unduryeong - Soksa - Jinbu (- - -) 86km

Today is one of the most challenging rides of the tour - but also one of the most rewarding.
The autumn scenery here is truly special, with vivid colors and sharp contrasts that paint a beautiful, cozy landscape.
Steep mountains, winding roads, and a stream running alongside the path all work together to push you forward. The more effort you put into pedaling, the more breathtaking the views become.
The day begins with a tough climb over Omijae Pass (500m), followed by a pleasant downhill ride through scenic, gentle valleys.
Enjoy your ride through the tranquil atmosphere and untouched beauty of Misan Valley make it a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Next, take Road 31 and prepare for anout 11km ride over Unduryeong Pass (1,089m). After reaching the top, continue down to Soksa Samgeori.
From there, turn left and head toward Jinbu.
As you ride through this remote region, you will be ?surrounded by a chain of towering mountains, with valleys sparsely dotted with tiny, peaceful villages - many of them seemingly frozen in time, inhabited by long-time locals.
It¡¯s a quiet, introspective ride through the heart of rural Korea, where nature and tradition meet.

Day 10 Jinbu - Jeongseon - Hwaam (- - -) 64km

The mountains remain high, and the road winds its way along scenic river valleys. While the overall elevation stays relatively low, the route features a gentle downhill slope leading toward Jeongseon. However, you will pass through three tunnels along the way. The mountains remain high, and the road winds its way along scenic river valleys. While the overall elevation stays relatively low, the route features a gentle downhill slope leading toward Jeongseon, a charming rural town rich in tradition and natural beauty.

Today, you will pass through three tunnels along the way - each requiring caution, though the journey remains tranquil and picturesque.
This mountain town is best known for its stunning river valleys, misty peaks, and the Jeongseon Arirang - a local variation of Korea¡¯s most iconic folk song, deeply rooted in the region¡¯s cultural identity.
Jeongseon¡¯s Five-Day Market is a quintessential example of Korea¡¯s traditional markets. Held on days ending in 2 and 7, it comes alive with the energy of local vendors, regional specialties, and visitors from across the country, creating a vibrant and authentic cultural experience.

Located in Jeongseon, Hwaam is a hidden gem surrounded by dramatic rock cliffs, crystal-clear valleys, and lush forests. While visiting, be sure to try Hwaam Yaksu, a natural carbonated mineral spring prized for its pure taste and health benefits. The spring water, rich in iron and carbonic acid, has a gentle sparkle and is believed to aid digestion and refresh the body.

Day 11 Hwaam - Taebaek (- - -) 42km
Pathfinding may seem challenging at first, but in reality, the route is quite manageable. The overall elevation is gentle, except for the demanding Samsuryeong Pass (935m), where you will find expansive highland cabbage farms alongside a cluster of wind turbines.
This cycling journey offers a true connection with nature. Along the way, you will share unique moments with locals and gain insight into their traditional lifestyle - a sensory delight and an immersion into charming, historic towns. The day promises a rewarding challenge, with endless mountains and winding valleys shaping your path.
While in Taebaek, be sure not to miss the birthplace of the Nakdong River: Hwangji Pond. This natural spring gushes approximately 5,000 tons of crystal-clear water daily, offering a peaceful and picturesque spot to reflect on Korea¡¯s rich natural heritage.

Day 12 Taebaek - Andong (- - -) 123km

Your journey begins in Taebaek with a challenging start: steep, winding uphills immediately slow your pace. The first stretch follows a narrow, busy two-lane road with fast-moving traffic, making it a demanding and potentially risky section - despite the natural beauty surrounding you.
After turning right at Yuksongjeong Samgeori, a relentless climb begins up Neutjae Hill (896m). This uphill section stretches for about 11km without respite. At the summit, you are rewarded with a steep descent that brings you to Cheongok-ro.
The route becomes more intricate here. At Hyeondong Samgeori, turn left and follow the town road heading toward Hyeondong Tunnel about 1 km away. Just before entering the tunnel, take the right fork to join a quieter local road called Imgiro, which gently winds alongside a peaceful stream.
From this point on, the terrain becomes more moderate, offering a scenic and relaxing ride. Enjoy the tranquility as you make your way toward Dosanseowon Confucian Academy, a historic cultural site dating back to the 16th century. If time permits, take a break and explore the academy before continuing your journey toward Andong.

Day 13 Andong (B)
Today is a day for relaxation, but you may still want to spend some time touring Andong by bike to explore its rich cultural heritage.
Start with a visit to the Andong Folk Museum, which provides an in-depth look at traditional Korean life and Confucian culture.
The museum features a variety of exhibits focused on the four major Confucian rites.
Next, enjoy the local ambience as you explore Andong¡¯s traditional market, filled with a wide array of merchandise, fresh vegetables, seafood, and fruits. At one end of the market, you will find a famous alley known for its Andong-style braised chicken (Andong Jjimdak) - a savory, mildly salty, slightly sweet dish with just a hint of spice. It¡¯s a popular local delicacy you might want to try.


Day 14 Andong - Hahoe - Mungyeong (B) 88km
Bike to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hahoe Village (Hahoe Maeul), a remarkably well-preserved 15th-century traditional Korean village. This unique settlement offers a rare glimpse into the lifestyle of the Joseon Dynasty (1392?1910). Approximately 480 traditional hanok houses, both grand and modest, remain intact and fully functioning, preserving the authentic character of the era.
As you stroll through the narrow alleyways, take in the rustic charm and timeless atmosphere of the village. One unmissable highlight is a 600-year-old zelkova tree, believed to house the village spirit. Locals still gather at the tree's base to make wishes and offer prayers, continuing centuries-old traditions.
You will tour the Hahoe Mask Museum which offers a fascinating look into Korea¡¯s traditional mask culture. The museum showcases a wide collection of Hahoe masks which are famously used in the Hahoe Byeolsingut Talnori, a traditional mask dance drama performed for rituals, entertainment, and social satire.
You will view the masks from Hahoe and other regions of Korea but also masks from over many countries around the world, making it an international center of mask art and culture.
After the tour, continue your journey by biking to Mungyeong along a scenic riverside bike path, offering peaceful views and a pleasant riding experience through the countryside.

Day 15 Mungyeong - Suanbo (- - -) 55km
You will make a stop at the Mungyeong Ceramic Museum, which offers a fascinating insight into the history, craftsmanship, and artistry of Korean ceramics. The museum showcases a diverse collection of works?from ancient pottery to modern reinterpretations by contemporary artists - highlighting the evolution and cultural significance of this timeless art form.

Onward tour presents a challenge, with several uphill sections along the way. The first major climb stretches 6.5km from the Mungyeong Ceramic Museum to Ihwaryeong Pass(548m), followed by another ascent from Yeonpung to Sojoryeong Pass. After conquering these two steep climbs, you're rewarded with a descent into a small town known for its hot springs - a perfect place to relax and recover from the day¡¯s efforts.

Day 16 Suanbo - Chungju - Yeoju (- - -) 84km
Today¡¯s ride is relatively easy, following a scenic and mostly flat riverside trail all the way to Chungju. As you move deeper into the countryside, you will begin to see more apple and Peach orchards dotting the landscape, adding to the pastoral charm.
Chungju is rich in cultural heritage. It is the birthplace of Taekgyeon, a traditional Korean martial art, and the Gayageum, a 12-stringed musical instrument that dates back to the 7th century. Take a short break at Jungangtap Park, home to a remarkable seven-story stone pagoda.

While in Yeoju, explore Silleuksa from the Silla dynasty (BC 57-AD 935). It is a rare temple that is perched on a riverbank amid an attractive waterfront whose cove forms a snug and cosy enclosure for this ancient sanctuary.

Day 17 Yeoju - Yangpyeong - Ungilsan Station - Seoul (B) 53km
The journey continues along the river passing a number of tunnels exclusively for cyclists. As you arrive at Ungilsan station where you set out your biking, your adventure terminates.
You are transferred to Seoul for about 45km.

Day 18 Departure (B) 60km

After this wonderful trip exploring Korea and with time to reflect on your surprise in your experience, you will return to the airport in time for your flight. By boarding, you are already high above Incheon heading for home.