Course Overview
Gwangyang Maehwa Village is Korea's largest plum blossom destination, with roughly 100,000 plum trees nestled along the Seomjingang River at the foot of Baegunsan Mountain in Daap-myeon. From early to mid-March, white plum blossoms mingle with river mist to create a scene reminiscent of an ink-wash painting.
This 25 km route departs from Gwangyang town, follows the riverside national road through the heart of Maehwa Village, and continues to the entrance of Baegunsan Natural Recreation Forest.
Section Highlights
Section 1: Gwangyang Town to Seomjingang Riverside (approx. 8 km)
Leaving town and joining the riverside road, with mountain views across the river and the first scattered plum trees along the banks.
Section 2: Daap-myeon Maehwa Village Core (approx. 10 km)
The highlight section with 100,000 plum trees lining both sides of the road. Pass through Jeongdong Village, Cheongmaesil Farm, and Maehwa Culture Hall.
Section 3: Maehwa Village to Baegunsan Entrance (approx. 7 km)
Gradually climbing toward Baegunsan with panoramic views of the village and Seomjingang River below.
Driving Tips
- Peak bloom is early to mid-March; weekends during the festival are extremely congested
- Weekday mornings offer a more relaxed experience
- Try local plum-based cuisine and jaecheop-guk (freshwater clam soup)
- Large parking lots are available at the village entrance