Discovering Tranquility at Okjeongho Lake & Two Café Gems
jjj
a month ago
Looking for a peaceful day trip from Jeonju that combines great coffee, stunning lake views, and cozy vibes? Head to Okjeongho Lake (옥정호) in Imsil, Jeollabuk-do, where you’ll find two charming cafés — Misty and Gallery Café & Bakery — both offering breathtaking views and delicious desserts.
This is a perfect countryside escape for anyone who wants to experience a quieter side of Korea without traveling too far.
How to Get to Okjeongho Lake from Jeonju
Distance: About 35 km from Jeonju
Travel time: 40–50 minutes by car
Route: Take the smooth local highway towards Imsil-gun, then follow scenic countryside roads surrounded by rolling green hills
The drive itself is part of the experience — peaceful, clean, and full of beautiful views. You’ll pass rice fields, traditional houses, and mountain silhouettes before reaching the tranquil Okjeongho Lake area.
If you’re a foreign traveler renting a car in Korea, this drive is easy and relaxing. There’s very little traffic, and you can stop at photo-worthy spots along the way.
Stop 1: Misty Café (미스티)
📍 Address: 전북 임실군 운암면 운암리 761-7
(761-7 Unam-ri, Unam-myeon, Imsil-gun, Jeollabuk-do)
🕓 Hours: Usually open from 10 AM – 8 PM (check before visiting)
If you love lakeside views and a minimalist vibe, Misty is your go-to café. It sits on a gentle hill overlooking Okjeongho Lake, offering panoramic glass-window views that feel straight out of a travel magazine.
I ordered a matcha latte, an iced americano, and a slice of tiramisu cake. The drinks were perfectly balanced — not too sweet, and the tiramisu was soft, creamy, and fresh.
Highlights:
Floor-to-ceiling windows with a direct lake view
Peaceful, cozy interior with modern design
Ideal for solo travelers or couples looking for quiet time
Great coffee, desserts, and relaxing atmosphere
Pro tip: Sit near the window or outside on the terrace for the best photos — the sunlight reflecting on the lake is stunning in the late afternoon.
Stop 2: Gallery Café & Bakery (갤러리 카페 앤 베이커리)
📍 Address: 전북 임실군 운암면 운정길 94-15
(94-15 Unjeong-gil, Unam-myeon, Imsil-gun, Jeollabuk-do)
🕓 Hours: 10 AM – 8 PM (Closed on Mondays; confirm via Naver Map)
Just a few minutes’ drive from Misty, you’ll find Gallery Café & Bakery, another lakeside gem. This café feels more modern and artistic — with tall windows, clean white walls, and a calm, gallery-like mood.
Here, I ordered a hot americano and, of course, another slice of tiramisu cake (for comparison!). It was beautifully presented — light, creamy, and rich in espresso flavor, pairing perfectly with the smooth hot coffee.
Highlights:
Elegant, art-gallery-inspired interior
Delicious baked goods and desserts
Peaceful outdoor terrace with lake and mountain views
Plenty of photo zones both inside and outside
This café is especially popular among locals for its relaxed atmosphere and aesthetic interior, making it an excellent stop for anyone who loves café-hopping with a view.
Why Foreign Travelers Should Visit These Cafés
1. Perfect for a Jeonju Day Trip: Both cafés are less than an hour away, making them easy to include in your travel itinerary.
2. Nature + Coffee Combo: Enjoy your drink while surrounded by mountains and lake reflections — a rare countryside experience in Korea.
3. Photo-Worthy Cafés: From architecture to latte art, every corner is Instagram-worthy.
4. Peaceful Vibe: A nice break from the busyness of Seoul or Jeonju city life.
5. Easy to Navigate: Roads are clean, parking is available, and the menus are simple — perfect for foreigners exploring on their own.
Tips for Visiting
1. Best Time to Visit: Late morning or around sunset for soft lighting and fewer crowds.
2. Transport: Renting a car or taking a taxi from Jeonju is most convenient.
3. Bring a camera: The scenery changes beautifully with the light.
4. Order tip: Try the tiramisu at both cafés — it’s fun to compare!
Final Thoughts
My visit to Misty and Gallery Café & Bakery by Okjeongho Lake was one of the most refreshing day trips I’ve taken from Jeonju. Between the peaceful drive, amazing lake views, and comforting coffee, it’s an experience I’d recommend to anyone — especially travelers looking for a quieter, more local side of Korea.
If you love café-hopping with a view, Okjeongho Lake should definitely be on your travel list.
