Jeju Olle Walking Festival: Explore the Soul of Jeju Island, Step by Step

Each autumn, the beautiful island of Jeju transforms into a walker’s paradise. The Jeju Olle Walking Festival invites travelers to slow down, breathe in the ocean air, and wander through volcanic cliffs, forests, and charming villages. It’s not just a hike; it’s a soulful celebration of nature, community, and the art of mindful travel.

What Is the Jeju Olle Walking Festival?

The Jeju Olle Walking Festival is an annual event celebrating the famous Jeju Olle Trails, a network of walking paths that circle South Korea’s Jeju Island.

Started in 2010 by the Jeju Olle Foundation, the festival aims to connect people with nature and local culture through walking. The word “Olle” refers to a narrow path that connects a village to the main road or the sea, symbolizing the journey from the outer world to inner peace.

Each year, the festival highlights different trail courses, offering new routes, cultural stops, and local experiences.

When and Where the Festival Happens

• Time: Late October to early November (exact dates vary each year)

• Location: Selected Olle Trail courses around Jeju Island

• Duration: Usually 2–3 days, with a new route each day

• Weather: Cool and breezy, with average temperatures between 15 and 20°C, ideal for long walks

During this period, Jeju’s landscape glows with autumn colors: tangerine orchards, golden pampas grass, and deep blue sea horizons.

Festival Experience: What to Expect on the Trail

Every morning, participants gather at the starting point of the day’s course, often greeted by local performers or traditional drumming groups. You’ll find friendly volunteers (called “Olle Friends”) who help guide walkers, distribute maps, and cheer everyone along.

Throughout the walk, expect:

• Cultural performances by local artists and musicians.

• Traditional food stalls offering Jeju dishes like jeonbokjuk (abalone porridge), gogi-guksu (pork noodle soup), and hallabong juice.

• Photo spots marked for breathtaking ocean and mountain views.

• Resting zones with shade, snacks, and water stations.

• Local markets and crafts at the finish line often feature handmade souvenirs, local produce, and artwork.

Each course ends with a mini celebration event, where participants share stories, enjoy music, and collect their trail completion badges.

Walking Courses & Highlights

The Jeju Olle Trail consists of 26 main routes and 5 sub-routes, stretching across 425 kilometers of scenic terrain.

Some of the festival’s most popular routes include

• Course 6 (Seogwipo to Oedolgae): Coastal cliffs, waterfalls, and beautiful sea views.

• Course 10 (Hwasun to Moseulpo): Fields of silver grass and traditional fishing villages.

• Course 14 (Jeoji to Gonae): Forests, stone walls, and wild camellia trees.

Each course offers a unique slice of Jeju, from serene beaches to rural farms and volcanic landscapes.

Essential Travel & Walking Tips

What to Pack

• Comfortable walking shoes with good grip

• Light backpack for water, snacks, and a small towel

• Weather protection: hat, sunscreen, and a light raincoat

• Reusable bottle (water refill stations are available)

• Portable charger for your phone or camera

Accommodation Options

Book early; festival season attracts both locals and international travelers.

• Budget stays: Guesthouses and hostels in Seogwipo and Jeju City

• Mid-range hotels: Near Olle Trail courses or coastal areas

• Eco-lodges and pensions: For an authentic local experience

Transportation

• Flights: Jeju International Airport (CJU) connects to Seoul, Busan, Tokyo, and more.

• Local buses & taxis: Convenient for reaching starting and ending points of each trail.

• Shuttle services: The festival provides limited trail connection shuttles between routes.

Registration Details

• Registration: Online at Jeju Olle Foundation

• Fee: Typically around ₩10,000–₩20,000 per day (~₹600–₹1,200)

• Includes:

  • Route access & event pass

  • Festival map

  • Local refreshments

  • Completion badge or souvenir

Cultural and Environmental Values

The Jeju Olle Walking Festival goes beyond travel. It promotes sustainable tourism, encouraging visitors to respect local traditions, minimize waste, and engage with communities.

Participants often say the festival helps them “see the island’s heart,” not just its scenic beauty, but the warmth of its people. Villagers decorate their homes, sing songs, and share stories of Jeju’s heritage.

Every step becomes an exchange between traveler and local life, rooted in simplicity and gratitude.

Why You Should Experience It Once in Your Life

Walking the Jeju Olle Festival is not a race; it’s a rhythm. The sound of waves, the scent of tangerines, and the quiet laughter of strangers all merge into a memory that stays long after you leave.

It’s ideal for:

• Solo travelers seeking peace and reflection

• Nature lovers who enjoy scenic landscapes

• Families or groups looking for bonding experiences

• Photography enthusiasts drawn to Jeju’s natural palette

Travel Insights

• Local Food to Try:

  • Haenyeo-style abalone soup

  • Jeju black pork barbecue

  • Hallabong orange desserts

• Nearby Attractions:

  • Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak)

  • Hallasan Mountain National Park

  • Jusangjeolli Cliffs

  • Cheonjiyeon Waterfall

• Eco-Tip: Bring your own trash bag Jeju’s clean trails depend on visitor care.

• Photography Tip: The golden hour before sunset offers magical lighting over the coastline.

The Jeju Olle Walking Festival is more than a hike; it’s a celebration of connection: with nature, people, and oneself. It captures Jeju’s timeless beauty in a way that sightseeing never can. Every path, every breeze, every step tells a story of slowing down, listening, and rediscovering the simple joy of walking.

So, if you ever find yourself longing for a journey that heals both body and mind, mark your calendar for Jeju’s next Olle Walking Festival and take that first step toward your own quiet adventure.

FAQs

Q: What is the Jeju Olle Walking Festival all about?

• The Jeju Olle Walking Festival is an annual event that celebrates Jeju Island’s scenic walking trails, known as the Jeju Olle Trails. It encourages people to explore the island’s natural landscapes, culture, and community at a slow and mindful pace. Participants walk different routes each day, enjoying local food, music, and nature along the way.

Q: When does the Jeju Olle Walking Festival take place?

• The festival is usually held in late October to early November, when Jeju Island’s weather is mild and its scenery is full of autumn colors. The exact dates vary each year, so it’s best to check the Jeju Olle Foundation website for official updates.

Q: How long is each walking course during the festival?

• Each course typically ranges from 10 to 20 kilometers. Participants can choose to walk one day or multiple days, depending on their stamina and interest. Every course is carefully designed to highlight a different side of Jeju, from rugged coastlines to forested hills and fishing villages.

Q: Do I need to register in advance?

• Yes. Advance registration is recommended and can be done online through the Jeju Olle Foundation’s official site. The registration fee usually includes access to the course, a festival map, local refreshments, and a completion badge or souvenir.

Q: Is the Jeju Olle Walking Festival suitable for beginners?

• Absolutely. The festival welcomes walkers of all ages and fitness levels. You can walk at your own pace and rest at several stations along the way. The atmosphere is friendly, inclusive, and focused on enjoyment rather than competition.

Q: What should I bring for the walk?

• Bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and a light rain jacket. A small backpack for snacks, a towel, and a portable charger is also useful. Most importantly, carry a camera or phone Jeju’s landscapes are stunning!

Q: How can I get to Jeju Island for the festival?

• You can fly into Jeju International Airport (CJU), which has frequent domestic flights from Seoul, Busan, and other major Korean cities, as well as international flights from Japan, China, and Taiwan. From the airport, buses and taxis connect to all major areas of the island and trail starting points.

Q: Are there accommodations near the festival routes?

• Yes. You’ll find a wide range of stays from budget guesthouses to eco-lodges and boutique hotels near most Olle Trail courses. Many participants prefer staying in Seogwipo City or Jeju City, both of which offer easy access to the routes. Early booking is recommended during the festival season.

Q: Is the festival family-friendly?

• Yes. Families often join together, and shorter courses are suitable for children and older adults. The festival atmosphere is community-oriented and safe, with plenty of rest spots and entertainment along the way.

Q: Why is the Jeju Olle Walking Festival special?

• The festival isn’t just a walking event; it’s an experience that blends nature, culture, and mindfulness. You’ll meet locals, taste authentic Jeju cuisine, enjoy live performances, and rediscover the joy of slow travel. It’s a journey that nurtures both the body and the spirit.

Fuel our creativity with a cup of coffee! ☕️❤️❤️❤️