Discover Korea like a local- visit the famous Damyang
While Seoul, Busan and Jeju get all the attention of the tourists, the picturesque county of Damyang remains a secret treasure few know about! If you want to get away from the big city and breathe in a calm countryside atmosphere, look no further! Damyang will make sure you are having a great time while healing your health in the bamboo forest, relaxing by the stunning Gwanbangjerim Forest or admiring the unforgettable Metasequoia-lined road. Thus, we have created a TOP 6 list of places well worth visiting!
1. Gwanbangjerim Forest (관방제림). A unique manmade forest was planted in order to prevent flooding along the gorgeous Damyangcheon Stream. But don’t look away just yet, in the forest you can find a variety of trees, some even 200-300 years old! The forest is said to be one of the most beautiful forests in the whole of South Korea too!
P.S. If you have a few hours to spare, why not rent a paddleboat in the lake or a bike to see the beauty of the forest from the other side!
2. Metasequoia-lined road. (메타세쿼아이어길)
In 2002 named as one of the most beautiful roads in South Korea, the place will make you feel like you’re in a beautiful fairy tale. The metasequoia trees were planted in 1970s, when the road was officially designated as a ‘boulevard’. Since then, the 8.5-kilometer-long boulevard has grown so tall and lush (10-20meter-tall), that it easily covers the road from the sun. Stop the car and get out for a walk. This place will definitely stay in your memories for some time.
K-drama location: "Mask" (가면)
3. Meta Provence (메타프로방스). A bit of Europe in a middle of Jeollanam province. The place consists of multiple European style houses, creating another fairy tale kind of experience. It is composed of Fashion outlets, Meta pension and a few more exotic attractions, making it a great stop for shopping, food and some great European style pictures.
4. Juknokwon Bamboo Forest. (죽녹원) . Opened in 2005, the bamboo forest is the largest of its kind in Korea, and definitely worth a trip from Seoul. Spreading over 310,000 square meters, it is also the most northern bamboo forest in South Korea! The forest also has beautiful pavilions, perfect to take a rest in or to indulge in another photo opportunity. While you are there, we’d recommend visiting the gorgeous Bonghwangnu Observatory, which will reward you with its picturesque views of Damyancheon Stream and the metaseqouia lined lane too!
P.S. Right in the Bamboo forest, there is a Bamboo museum! Not only can you learn more about the local history and learn about the amazing bamboos, but you can also try the Bamboo Ice Cream!
K-drama location: Iljimae
5. Chuwolsan mountain (731m) (추월산) Shaped like a Buddhist monk lying down, the mountain is formed of forests, rock walls and stones, making it a beautiful sight to see. It is also famous within the locals for its wild medicinal herbs and rare kinds of Chuwolsan orchids. On the mountain, you can also find a mineral spring and a hermitage, giving a perfect opportunity to take a rest before climbing higher. However, do keep in mind, that the peak (although not high) is rather difficult to reach. Combining nature with history, it is interesting to know that the mountain was actually a battlefield during the Imjin War!
6.Damyangho Lake (담양호). A man-made lake created back in 1976. Due to its picturesque location at the base of Chuwolsan and Geumseongsan Mountains and its crystal-clear waters, it is a great spot for a beautiful morning walk. It is also a habitat to many freshwater fishes, making it a popular place between the locals.
P.S. Did you know that the delicious bamboo shoot bread (Chuk Sun Bbang 죽순빵)snack was first created by a Damyang native? It was made with real bamboo shoot and delicious Korean brown rice, making it a delicacy nothing compares to. While you are in Damming why not give it a try?
Author: Raimonda Kekyte