Sarabong(사라봉), painting the end of a Jeju trip in red, the impression of Sabong Nakjo(사봉낙조) among the Yeongju Sipgyeong(영주십경)

The atmosphere of the pine forest path overlooking Jeju Port(제주항)

On the afternoon of my last day in Jeju(제주), I chose Sarabong(사라봉) because I felt sad to leave as if chased by my flight time. Located at 61 Sarabongdong-gil, Jeju-si(제주시), this place is close to the city center, but the moment I entered the entrance, the tangy scent of the forest emitted by the dense pine trees instantly erased the noise of the city. Walking up the gentle slope, the sound of red songi(volcanic ash) crunching under my feet sounded pleasant. The path leading to the summit is not steep, making it perfect for a light stroll.

Looking back while catching my breath in between, the scenery of Jeju(제주) city, which is getting farther away, catches my eye. To the north, the shimmering ripples of the endless blue sea sparkle, and to the south, the magnificent Hallasan(한라산) stands silently in its place. In this place, where the salty sea breeze mixes with the scent of the forest to create a unique air only found in Jeju(제주), I finally realized that I was on a real trip.

Yeongju Sipgyeong(영주십경) Sabong Nakjo(사봉낙조), facing the burning red sea

the biggest reason to visit Sarabong(사라봉) is definitely 'Sabong Nakjo(사봉낙조)'. It is said that one of the Yeongju Sipgyeong(영주십경), where the ancients chose the ten most beautiful places in Jeju(제주), is the sunset seen from here, so I couldn't help but have high expectations. The scenery I saw while waiting for the sun to set slowly upon reaching the summit was truly spectacular. When the red sun falling over the sea dyed the horizon and the entire sea in red, a silence came as if all the noise in the world had stopped.

There is an octagonal pavilion at the summit, so it was great to stay for a while and take in this scenery. I can't forget the heavy breath of history felt while passing the Anti-Japanese Memorial Monument. The energetic appearance of local residents enjoying their daily lives while using the fitness facilities early in the morning or late in the afternoon also became a vivid piece of my Jeju(제주) trip.

Small tips to make your Sarabong(사라봉) trip even more perfect

Sarabong(사라봉) is actually a space more loved by locals than by travelers. Perhaps that's why amenities such as drinking fountains and restrooms are carefully managed throughout the area. If you are planning a visit, I recommend arriving about 40 minutes before sunset and climbing to the summit at a leisurely pace. This is because you can fully enjoy the short moment when the sunset begins.

If you find it a shame to only look around Sarabong(사라봉), it is also good to enjoy Byeoldobong(별도봉) connected to the east as a linked oreum. The path connecting the two oreums is comfortable for walking and the scenery is also excellent. If time permits, also visit Mochungsa(모충사) located at the bottom of the south. You don't need any grand preparations. If you bring comfortable sneakers and a little leeway to watch the setting sun until the end, Sarabong(사라봉) will remain as the most intense memory on your Jeju(제주) travel list.