Places to Visit in Sokcho
“Yeongnangho Lake in Sokcho”
Yeongnangho Lake in Sokcho is a natural lake located in Sokcho, Gangwon Province, South Korea. It is one of the major tourist attractions in Sokcho, known for its beautiful natural scenery and various recreational activities.
Location and General Information
Location: Yeongnang-dong, Sokcho-si, Gangwon-do
Area: Approximately 1.2 km²
Surrounding Scenery: The lake is close to Seoraksan National Park, and there are well-maintained walking trails and bike paths around the lake.
History and Name Origin: The name “Yeongnangho” originates from the legend of Yeongnang, a Hwarang (flowering youth) of the Silla Dynasty, who stayed here, captivated by its beauty.
Main Attractions
Walking Trails: The walking trails along the lake are ideal for walking and biking, offering particularly beautiful views at sunrise and sunset.
Cherry Blossom Path: In spring, the cherry blossoms around the lake bloom, attracting many visitors.
Ecology and Environment: The lake is an important habitat for various fish and bird species, with well-developed reeds and wetlands around it, providing a natural ecological environment.
Nearby Amenities
Accommodation: There are hotels, pensions, and campgrounds around the lake, allowing visitors to stay comfortably.
Restaurants: There are various restaurants nearby where you can enjoy local specialties.
Yeongnangho Lake is a beloved destination for its beautiful scenery and diverse tourist resources. It is a must-visit spot when traveling to Sokcho, offering relaxation in nature and various activities.
If I were to choose the first place to visit in Sokcho, I would unhesitatingly choose Yeongnangho Lake.
Parking is convenient around the lake, and after parking, you can rent bicycles to explore different parts of the lake.
Bicycles are available for rent in various forms, from single to tandem and even 3-4 person bikes, making it easy to enjoy with friends, family, or alone.
First Stop After Renting a Bicycle
Note: For detailed information about bicycle rentals, please refer to my blog.
It is easy to reach the top of Beombawi (Tiger Rock), where you can take in the breathtaking views of Seoraksan.
Yeongnangho Resort in the Distance
You can see Yeongnangho Resort in the distance, which is popular for its delicious breakfast and great views from all the rooms.
Cherry Blossom Path
I visited in late spring when most of the cherry blossoms had fallen, but during the blooming season, the cherry blossom path is stunningly beautiful.
In April 2019, a wildfire in Goseong on the East Coast also affected the area around Yeongnangho, leaving scars. Some resort villas were damaged, but fortunately, most have been restored (though some villas remain unrestored).
There are many spots and decks to rest along the way. Despite the slightly dusty weather, Yeongnangho Lake is a must-visit place in Sokcho, providing a sense of peace and comfort.
Beautiful Deck Path
There are beautiful deck paths where you can stop and walk while biking or walking around the lake. The clear freshwater of Yeongnangho can be beautifully captured with your eyes. Personally, it’s the prettiest spot in Yeongnangho.
Resting Spots Around the Lake
There were many resting spots around the lake, ensuring there was no boredom during the tour.
Recently Created Upper Trail of Yeongnangho Lake
A floating bridge that allows you to walk across the lake. It takes less than 30 minutes to walk round trip, so be sure to try it.
View from the Middle of the Floating Bridge
You can safely walk on the floating structure, which is slightly wobbly, even for the elderly.
Photo Zone on Yeongnangho Lake’s Upper Trail
Yeongnangho Lake, formed in the area where freshwater and seawater meet, offers stunning views.
Even with just a brief look at the photos, you can see why Yeongnangho Lake is a great travel destination in Sokcho.
During my visit in mid-April, most of the cherry blossoms had fallen, but the lush cherry blossom tunnel provided shade from the hot sun.
Outdoor Deck in Front of the Bicycle Rental Shop
There is an outdoor deck right in front of the bicycle rental shop.
It is a great place to bring a picnic and enjoy a meal.
Recommendations for Visiting Yeongnangho Lake
- You can park at Yeongnangho Resort’s parking lot, though it may become a paid lot if it gets crowded.
- There are about three bicycle rental shops around Yeongnangho Lake, making it easy to rent a bike and tour the lake.
- A full bike tour around the lake takes about an hour, while walking takes about 2-3 hours.
- If a full tour is difficult, a half-tour using the upper trail is also a good option.
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