My boss gave us a Friday off, so my co-worker and I decided to seize the day and go for a hike.  She chose the Olle 9, a route on the southwestern part of Jeju Island, which runs from Daepyeong Port to Hwasan Beach. It’s a very short hike at only 7.1 kilometers, but two massive oreums make it rather challenging.  The ascents are filled with rocks and require a bit of maneuvering, but the awesome views at the summit make it a worthwhile sweat.  While descending, we got a beautiful view of Andeok Valley and yellow-coated rapeseed fields.  Although the trek takes only a few hours, it is filled with natural beauty around every corner.  These shots offer a mere glimpse into the fantastic scenery of the Jeju Olle 9.  If you’re ever around, definitely check it out.

Cherry blossoms: a beautiful start to a wonderful hike

A wonderful greeting after a bus ride

The starting point at Daepyeong Port

The starting point at Daepyeong Port

Westward view from Weolla-bong Peak

Westward view from Weolla-bong Peak

Rock pilings for luck

Rock pilings for luck

A free snack along the trail

A free snack along the trail

Old Japanese army hideouts frequent the trail's midway

Old Japanese army hideouts frequent the trail’s midway

Wicked witch trees

Wicked witch trees

A scenic creek after the major descent

A scenic creek after the major descent

Coastal views signifying the end

Coastal views signifying the end

A final barefoot beach walk

A final barefoot beach walk

A treeful ending to a 7k hike

A treeful ending to a 7k hike