Course Overview
Jeju is home to over 360 oreums (parasitic volcanic cones), with the densest concentration in the eastern Gujwa-eup and Seongsan-eup areas. This drive tours the most notable oreums, each with its own distinct character and landscape.
Darangshi Oreum features a perfect circular crater, Abu Oreum showcases vast silvergrass fields, and Yongnuni Oreum boasts an extremely rare triple crater. Each oreum takes 20-40 minutes to climb from its parking lot, making this a popular combination of scenic driving and light trekking.
Section Highlights
Section 1: Darangshi Oreum (382m)
Jeju's most perfectly circular crater, filled with dense forest below the rim. About 30 minutes to the summit.
Section 2: Abu Oreum (301m)
A gentle oreum with expansive silvergrass fields. In autumn (Oct-Nov), the golden grass creates a breathtaking scene. Hallasan and Seongsan Ilchulbong are visible from the summit.
Section 3: Yongnuni Oreum (247m)
One of the world's rare triple-crater volcanic cones. Easy slopes accessible to anyone, with a popular ridge walk along the crater rims.
Driving Tips
- Parking at oreums is free but may be unpaved; drive carefully
- Start early in the morning for best light and fewer people
- Spring (Apr-May) brings canola flowers; autumn (Oct-Nov) peaks with silvergrass
- Cafes and restaurants near Darangshi Oreum make meal planning easy
- Wear non-slip shoes as trails can be slippery after rain