7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Suncheon

Digital nomads living in Suncheon, South Korea, have the unique opportunity to blend productive work days with exciting weekend getaways. The city's location in the Jeollanam-do province offers a mix of popular tourist spots and hidden gems within a reasonable distance. Whether you're looking for cultural experiences, natural beauty, or just a change of scenery, these seven destinations provide a perfect escape from your routine.

Yeosu

Just a short trip from Suncheon, Yeosu is a beautiful coastal city known for its stunning ocean views and historical significance. The Yeosu Expo, which took place in 2012, left a legacy of modern attractions like the Big-O Show and the Sky Tower. Visitors can also explore the romantic Yeosu Night Sea or take a cruise around the archipelago. The city's blend of modernity and nature makes it a must-visit for anyone in the region.

How to Get There: Yeosu is easily accessible from Suncheon by train or bus, with the journey taking approximately 30 minutes to an hour.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to walk along the Yeosu Maritime Cable Car for breathtaking views of the city and the sea, especially at sunset.

Where to Stay: The U Castle Hotel offers luxurious accommodations with ocean views, while the Yeosu Venezia Hotel & Resort provides a more thematic stay.

Where to Eat: Head to the Yeosu Fish Market for fresh seafood, or try the famous Yeosu-style grilled mackerel at a local restaurant.

Gwangyang Maehwa Village

For a unique springtime excursion, the Gwangyang Maehwa Village is an off-the-beaten-path destination that comes alive with the blooming of plum flowers. The annual Maehwa Festival celebrates the blossoms with cultural performances and local food. The village's picturesque scenery is perfect for leisurely walks and photography enthusiasts.

How to Get There: The village is about a 30-minute drive from Suncheon, making it an easy day trip by car or local bus.

Travel Tip: Visit during the Maehwa Festival for the full experience, but even outside the festival, the plum groves are a serene spot to enjoy nature.

Where to Stay: While there are limited accommodations in the village itself, nearby Gwangyang offers various hotels and guesthouses.

Where to Eat: Sample local plum-based delicacies at the village or enjoy traditional Korean cuisine at a restaurant in Gwangyang.

Boseong Green Tea Fields

Boseong is renowned for its vast green tea fields, which create a stunning landscape that's both peaceful and invigorating. Visitors can walk among the rows of tea plants, learn about the tea-making process, and sample the local brew. The Daehan Dawon Tea Plantation is particularly famous and offers a picturesque setting for a relaxing day out.

How to Get There: Boseong is about an hour's drive from Suncheon, with public buses also available for transport.

Travel Tip: Make sure to try the green tea ice cream and visit the Yulpo Beach nearby for a refreshing dip in the ocean.

Where to Stay: The Tea Castle Resort and Hotel provides comfortable lodging amidst the tea fields, offering a unique experience.

Where to Eat: The plantation's own café serves a variety of green tea-infused treats, including noodles and desserts.

Suncheon Bay Wetland Reserve

As a digital nomad in Suncheon, you can't miss the Suncheon Bay Wetland Reserve, a natural wonder right on your doorstep. This ecological park is home to a diverse range of bird species and features a beautiful reed field. The boardwalk through the wetlands allows for an immersive experience in nature, and the observatory offers panoramic views of the bay.

How to Get There: The reserve is located within Suncheon itself, making it easily accessible by local transport or even by bike.

Travel Tip: Visit during the migration season to witness flocks of birds, and don't miss the sunset from the observatory for a truly magical experience.

Where to Stay: Stay in central Suncheon for convenience, with options like the Suncheon Royal Tourist Hotel or the Suncheon Guesthouse Nreem.

Where to Eat: Try the local specialty, Suncheon Bay salted shrimp, at a restaurant near the reserve.

Nagan Eupseong Folk Village

Step back in time at the Nagan Eupseong Folk Village, where you can explore well-preserved Joseon-era thatched houses and fortress walls. This living museum offers a glimpse into traditional Korean life, with cultural experiences such as pottery making and traditional games. The village's tranquil atmosphere is perfect for those looking to escape the digital world for a day.

How to Get There: The village is about a 30-minute drive from Suncheon, with public transportation options also available.

Travel Tip: Participate in one of the village's cultural programs to get a hands-on experience of traditional Korean crafts and customs.

Where to Stay: There are traditional Hanok stays within the village for an authentic overnight experience, or you can find modern accommodations in Suncheon.

Where to Eat: Enjoy traditional Korean meals at the village's restaurants, where you can taste local dishes like pajeon (Korean pancake) and makgeolli (rice wine).

Seonamsa Temple

Seonamsa Temple is a serene Buddhist temple nestled in the mountains near Suncheon. It's part of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism and offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. The temple's ancient architecture and surrounding natural beauty make it a perfect spot for meditation and reflection. Visitors can also participate in temple stays for a more immersive experience.

How to Get There: The temple is accessible by bus from Suncheon, taking around 40 minutes to reach.

Travel Tip: Try to visit during the temple's tea ceremony or join a temple stay program to fully embrace the tranquility of the place.

Where to Stay: For a unique experience, stay at the temple itself, or choose from various hotels and guesthouses back in Suncheon.

Where to Eat: The temple offers vegetarian meals as part of the temple stay program, or you can find local restaurants in the nearby area.

Geumo Island

Geumo Island is an off-the-beaten-track destination that offers a quiet escape with its untouched natural beauty and small fishing community. The island is ideal for hiking, fishing, and simply unwinding by the sea. With fewer tourists, you can enjoy a more authentic and peaceful experience, exploring the island's hidden trails and beaches.

How to Get There: Reach Geumo Island by taking a ferry from the nearby coastal city of Yeosu, which is a short journey from Suncheon.

Travel Tip: Rent a bike to explore the island's scenic routes and discover secluded spots for a picnic or a swim.

Where to Stay: Accommodations on Geumo Island are limited, so consider staying in a local guesthouse or minbak for a genuine experience.

Where to Eat: Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the island's modest restaurants or bring your own supplies for a seaside barbecue.