Gyorae Natural Recreation Forest: A Healing Retreat in the Jeju Gotjawal

Gyorae Natural Recreation Forest, the first natural recreation forest created in the Gotjawal

Deep within Jocheon-eup on Jeju Island lies Gyorae Natural Recreation Forest, the first of its kind built within the Gotjawal. Gotjawal is a forest ecosystem that formed on rocky lava terrain and is home to unique biodiversity. For those looking to explore this environment up close, Gyorae Natural Recreation Forest offers a variety of forest programs. Spanning the size of 322 soccer fields, the vast forest lets you engage all five senses in nature.

A primeval forest experienced through all five senses

“Into the Gotjawal Forest” program that engages all five senses (Credit: Gyorae Natural Recreation Forest)

Participants in the “Into the Gotjawal Forest” program (Credit: Gyorae Natural Recreation Forest)

The highlight of Gyorae Natural Recreation Forest is undoubtedly its ecological observation trail. Designed as a loop, the 1.5 km path is short and gentle, making it easy for anyone to walk. Though brief, it distills the essence of Gotjawal’s forest into a compact, immersive experience. Trees with exposed roots, moss-covered rocks, and towering ferns create a landscape that evokes scenes from Jurassic World. While you won’t find dinosaurs, you might spot roe deer and other wildlife along the way.

To fully immerse yourself in this mystical forest, join the signature “Into the Gotjawal Forest” wellness program. Guided by forest welfare and healing experts, participants walk the forest trail while using sight, sound, and smell to connect with the vitality of the Gotjawal. The program ends with a soothing cup of floral tea, the perfect finish that leaves both body and mind refreshed.

Junction where the Oreum trail and the ecological observation trail split

If you’re up for a bit more physical activity, consider hiking the Oreum trail that leads to Keunjigeuri Oreum. The one-way distance from the entrance of Gyorae Natural Recreation Forest to the summit is about 4 km, taking roughly 2.5 hours round trip. Aside from the summit area, most of the trail is gentle and manageable, making it a relatively easy hike for visitors.

At the fork where the Oreum and ecological trails diverge, you’ll find the Gotjawal Ecology Experience Museum. Featuring engaging themes like “The Birth of Volcanic Jeju,” “Gotjawal in Crisis,” and “Forests Rooted in Lava,” the museum offers an accessible overview of the Gotjawal ecosystem. It’s a modest space but worth a visit to deepen your understanding of the Gotjawal forest ecosystem in Jeju, especially if timed with one of the free guided tours held twice a day (10:00 and 14:00; closed Mondays).

Forest thatched cottage

Forest lodge

Campsite in the camping zone

Gyorae Natural Recreation Forest also offers a variety of lodging options. In the recreation zone, there are forest thatched cottages (for 6 to 12 people) and forest lodges (available in 6- and 12-person units), while the camping zone features both decked and grassy campsites. If you’re planning to camp, there are a few things to keep in mind. You’ll need to carry your camping supplies using the carts provided at the entrance, and for safety reasons, fire pits and pets are strictly prohibited within the campground. Following the forest’s guidelines will ensure a safe and memorable stay in the Gotjawal.

Nearby Attractions

1. Jeju Stone Park

Jeju Stone Park (Credit: KTO Photo Korea, photo by Lee Beom-su)

Jeju Stone Park is both a museum and an ecological park inspired by the legend of Seolmundae Halmang, the goddess who created Jeju Island, and her 500 sons, the Obaek Janggun (Five Hundred Generals), who turned to stone across the island out of guilt over their mother’s death. The park features a stone museum, a garden of myth, and a traditional Jeju thatched village. Through traditional stone sculptures, folklore artifacts, and mythological exhibits, visitors can experience Jeju’s folk culture and mythology in a multifaceted way.

2. Eco Land Theme Park

Eco Land Theme Park

A top destination in Jeju, Eco Land Theme Park takes you through the Gotjawal forest aboard a steam-style electric train. The train loops through five themed stations, including a lavender garden, lakeside area, and pasture, making it a fun and varied ride with no chance of boredom. Hop off at any stop to freely enjoy the Gotjawal’s ecosystem and natural scenery.

* This column was last updated in July 2025, and therefore information may differ from what is presented here. We advise you to check for updates before visiting.