Ultimate Guide to Jeju Olle Trail Course 1: From Volcanic Cones to the Deep Blue Sea

Welcome to the beginning of a grand journey. Jeju Olle Trail Course 1 is the perfect introduction to the soul of Jeju Island. This guide is based on a firsthand trek from the Siheung-ri bus stop to Gwangchigi Beach, specifically designed for international travelers who need practical details—from bus numbers to restroom locations—that aren't always easy to find in English.

The iconic blue 'Ganse' pony marks the beginning of your 12.1km adventure.

1. Course Overview & Difficulty 

Course 1 is a "best-of" collection of Jeju’s landscapes: iconic Oreums, peaceful stone-walled villages, and breathtaking coastal roads.

What is an "Oreum"?

"Oreum" is a unique Jeju dialect word for a parasitic volcano or a small volcanic cone. Jeju Island has over 360 of these cones scattered around Mount Hallasan. They offer gentle hiking paths and serve as the best vantage points to see the island's panoramic beauty.

• Starting Point: Siheung-ri Bus Stop 

• Finish Point: Gwangchigi Beach 

• Total Distance: 12.1 km (7.5 miles)

• Duration: 4–5 hours

• Official Difficulty: Moderate (★★☆☆)

Editor’s Note: The first hour involves climbing two consecutive Oreums (Malmi and Al-Oreum). This is the most demanding part of the trail. Once you clear these, the rest of the path is mostly flat and easy to walk.

The breathtaking view of Seongsan Ilchulbong as seen from the summit of Malmi Oreum.

2. The Trail Flow: What to Expect

The Ascent: Malmi & Al-Oreum

After a 150m walk from the bus stop, you will reach the official starting stamp station. The climb up Malmi Oreum rewards you with a panoramic view of Seongsan Ilchulbong and Udo Island. Al-Oreum, which follows immediately, offers a gentler slope and benches to catch your breath.

Village & Coast: Jongdal-ri & Mokhwa Rest Area

Descending the Oreums, you will enter Jongdal-ri, a village famous for its traditional stone walls and quiet atmosphere. Mokhwa Rest Area serves as a legendary halfway point for hikers. Here, you can rest with a view of the ocean before hitting the final coastal stretch toward the finish line.

Walking through the quiet, wind-sheltered stone walls of Jongdal-ri village.

3. Essential Logistics for International Trekkers

Navigation: Blue & Orange Markers

The trail is exceptionally well-marked with three types of signs. Look for these to stay on track:

• Blue Arrows/Ribbons: Indicate the Forward Direction (clockwise).

• Orange Arrows/Ribbons: Indicate the Reverse Direction (counter-clockwise).

• Ganse: Pony-shaped wooden signs containing the stamps for your passport.

Keep an eye out for these blue and orange ribbons—they are your best friends on the trail

How to Get There (Real-time Bus Info)

We highly recommend using Kakao Maps or Naver Map (available in English).

• Recommended Routes: Take bus 201, 211, or 212 from Jeju City or the Airport area and get off at Siheung-ri Stop.

•  Check Real-time Jeju Bus Schedule (Official English Site)

Restrooms & Convenience Stores

Unlike many trails in Europe, public restrooms in Jeju are mostly free of charge and very well-maintained.

• Restrooms: Use the facilities near the Siheung-ri start point. (Note: There are no restrooms while climbing the Oreums.)

• Convenience Stores: (CU or GS25 are common. For vegan travelers, please note that convenience store snacks are mostly non-vegan; it is better to pack your own nuts or fruits from local marts.)

Half-dried squids (Hanchi) sunbathing at Mokhwa Rest Area—a classic Jeju sight.

4. Global Context: Olle and the Camino

Jeju Olle is a proud member of the world’s trail network, holding a "Friendship Trail" agreement with the Camino de Santiagoin Spain. If you have walked the Camino or the Kyushu Olle in Japan, you will recognize the same spirit of community and respect for nature here. It is truly a world-class pilgrimage for the soul.

5. Packing Checklist & Tips

• Water (1~1.5L): Essential for the Oreum section.

• Windbreaker: Jeju is famous for wind. Even in summer, the breeze can be chilly.

• Olle Passport: Required only for an official certificate. Price is 20,000 KRW.

• Sun Protection: The coastal section has very little shade. A hat and sunscreen are mandatory.

• First-aid Kit: (Pharmacies/Yak-guk are mainly in the village centers. Only carry personal prescription drugs, such as asthma inhalers or specific allergy meds.)

Walking towards the majestic Seongsan Ilchulbong—the final beacon of Course 1.

6. Finish Line: Gwangchigi Beach 

Reaching Gwangchigi Beach is your greatest reward. The unique volcanic rock formations covered in green moss against the backdrop of Seongsan Ilchulbong create a surreal landscape. If you plan to see the sunrise at Seongsan the next morning, staying near this area is a great choice.

Join me as I continue my journey to walk every single course of the Jeju Olle Trail!

Before you lace up your boots, make sure you are fully prepared! Read my [Essential Guide: How to Prepare for the Jeju Olle Trail] for more tips on weather, gear, and safety.