Welcome to one of Korea’s most stunning coastal trails! The Yeongdeok Blue Road (영덕 블루로드) offers an unforgettable journey along the East Sea, where dramatic cliffs, sapphire waters, and fishing villages create a postcard-perfect experience. Here’s your ultimate guide to exploring this hidden gem.
Why Walk the Yeongdeok Blue Road?
Stretching 20 km across Ganggu Port, Chuksan Port, and Jukdo Beach, this trail blends natural beauty with cultural charm. You’ll witness:
- Azure Vistas: The “Blue Road” name comes from the mesmerizing cobalt waves crashing against volcanic rock formations.
- Working Fishing Villages: Watch fishermen hauling in catches (especially snow crabs in winter!) and sample ultra-fresh seafood.
- UNESCO Geopark Sites: Unique rock formations like Goraebul Peak (resembling a coiled dragon) tell 80-million-year-old geological stories.
Route Highlights & Walking Tips
Key Sections:
-
Ganggu Port → Chuksan Port (5.5 km, 1.5 hours):
- Start at Ganggu Sunrise Park for epic morning views.
- Cross the Sky Bridge—a glass walkway hovering above turquoise waters.
- Detour to Yeongdeok Snow Crab Market for live auctions (open 7 AM–1 PM).
-
Chuksan Port → Jukdo Beach (7 km, 2 hours):
- Navigate cliffside boardwalks with panoramic sea vistas.
- Spot “Dragon’s Back” Ridge, a jagged coastal spine.
- End at Jukdo Beach’s golden sands—perfect for a swim in summer.
Trail Essentials:
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate. Paved paths with stairs; sturdy shoes recommended.
- Time: Full trail takes 4–5 hours. Shorten via bus/taxi between sections.
- Free Access: No entry fees!
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (April–June): Wildflowers, mild temps (15–25°C).
- Fall (September–November): Crisp air, fiery foliage.
- Winter (December–February): Snow-capped cliffs + snow crab feasts!
- Avoid: Rainy season (July) and typhoon warnings.
Getting There
- From Seoul: Take KTX to Pohang (2 hours), then bus to Yeongdeok Intercity Terminal (1 hour). Taxi to Ganggu Port (~10 mins).
- From Busan: Direct bus to Yeongdeok (2.5 hours).
- Driving: Rent a car—scenic coastal roads with parking at trailheads.
Must-Try Experiences
- Seafood Lunch: Try kkotge tang (spicy snow crab stew) at Chuksan Port restaurants.
- Sunrise/Sunset: Ganggu’s observatory offers legendary horizon views.
- Photo Ops: Blue suspension bridges + wave-sculpted sea caves.
Traveler Tips
- Pack: Water, windbreaker, sunscreen, and cash (card not accepted at some seafood stalls).
- Stay: Overnight in Yeongdeok’s minbak (guesthouses) or beachfront pensions.
- Combine With: Hupo Night Sea Market (30-min drive) for grilled squid and live music.
Final Thoughts
Yeongdeok’s Blue Road is Korea’s coastline at its rawest and most poetic. Whether you’re a hiker, photographer, or seafood lover, this trail offers a soul-refreshing escape far from city crowds. Walk slowly, breathe the salt air, and let the East Sea’s rhythm guide you.
“In Yeongdeok, every step is a brushstroke painting the sea.” 🌊🇰🇷
Plan Your Trip:
- Naver Map: Search “Yeongdeok Blue Road”
- Bus Info: bustago.or.kr (English available)
- Festivals: Yeongdeok Snow Crab Festival (March) & Sunrise Festival (Jan 1).