Hidden Wonders of Taean: Scenic Coastal Hike on the West Sea Trail
Creatrip Team
3 months ago
Travel writer Jin Wooseok explores Taean’s northern Iwon Peninsula on sections 72–73 of the West Sea Trail (Seohaerang-gil), part of a 1,800 km coastal route. Starting at Kkujina-mugol Beach, the 17 km out-and-back hike (about 5 hours) follows rugged coastline, quiet forests and dramatic viewpoints including Gama-bong and Ipseongkkeut observatories. Highlights include the echoing sea cave “Warangchang,” the legendary Yongnan Cave (where two dragons are said to have strived for ascension), and the volunteer labor memorial of Cha Yun-cheon, who helped clear paths after the 2007 Taean oil spill. The route ends at Mandae Port where fresh, locally caught sea bass sashimi bibimbap is served. The piece blends practical info (lunch only at Mandae Port, use the Korea Dullegil app for navigation) with reflective seasonal mood as the author watches the year’s last sunset.
