Great Places to Escape the Summer Heat

Chunyang-myeon in Bonghwa-gun is one of the best places to escape the summer heat. Dadeok Mineral Spring, one of Bonghwa's three major clean mineral springs, is renowned for its crisp, tangy taste, and in the past, many people are said to have cured illnesses here. In particular, the pristine waters of Gujeon Valley are so icy and cool that the heat stands no chance. A minor drawback is that since it is a mountain driving route that loops around, the travel distance is somewhat long.

Along the way

1. 1

   Dadeok Mineral Spring

   다덕약수탕

   This is one of the three major clean carbonated mineral springs in Bonghwa. Named Dadeok (literally "many virtues") Mineral Spring because people in the past experienced great health benefits after drinking from the spring beneath a water elm tree, its water contains carbonic acid and iron, giving it a wonderfully refreshing and tangy taste. Since ancient times, many people are said to have found relief from skin diseases and gastrointestinal ailments, and visitors from across the country still seek it out today. Located along the national highway toward Uljin and Taebaek, it is a convenient stop along the way. A direct sales store for Bonghwa's local agricultural specialties is also available on-site. MoreLess

   

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2. 2

   Bonghwa Geumgang Pine Forest

   봉화 금강소나무림

   The Southern Regional Forest Service (headed by Director General Bae Young-don) created the "Eco-Tour-Led Geumgang Pine Ecological Management Forest" in three locations—Sogwang-ri in Uljin, Bonsin-ri in Yeongyang, and Goseon-ri/Daehyeon-ri in Bonghwa—to restore the Geumgang pine forest, which had been in decline due to artificial logging and environmental changes, to the lush state of the late Joseon Dynasty, while offering the public a direct experience of a healthy forest. Within the Geumgang Pine Ecological Management Forest, a 606-hectare succession forest was established to replace the current forest 100 years from now. To restore the food chain centered around the flowing streams, 3,000 fruit-bearing trees such as rowan and multiflora rose were planted to feed birds; 9,000 forage plants across 3.5 hectares, including clover and Tartarian aster favored by wild rabbits and roe deer, were planted; and fish dams and small weirs were built in the valley to release some 30,000 native fish, including pale chub, barbel steed, and Chinese minnow, restoring the valley into a vibrant, living ecosystem. MoreLess

   

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3. 3

   Guma Valley (Goseon Valley)

   구마계곡(고선계곡)

   Streams originating from Taebaeksan Mountain (1,567 m) flow across a distance of 20 km. As the longest valley originating from the mountain with a stream spanning a full 100-ri (approx. 40 km), this primeval forest valley boasts an abundant volume of water and is home to various freshwater fish, making it ideal for water activities with family. In addition, surrounding bizarre rock formations, cliffs, and forests are preserved in their natural state, and the valley water is as clear as a mirror, vividly reflecting the surrounding splendid mountain scenery once more upon its surface. Preserving such ancient, pristine mysteries, Goseon Valley is an ideal summer retreat for modern people worn down by urban pollution. This is why many who visit once continue to return every year. MoreLess

   

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