If you’re looking for a place to simply bask in relaxation, then we’ve got you covered! From green nature, peaceful music, and comfortable furniture, to gardens and private spaces, these accommodations are more than just a place to stay; these six unique accommodations are perfectly suited for quality R&R.

Andong, Gyeongsangbuk-do ┃ Damyunjae

Summary ┃ Hanok built by the late Ryu Seonwoo, father of actor Ryu Si-won, of the Andong Pungsan Ryu clan

Feature | Damyunjae differs from the typical boxed-in hanok architecture of the area by being built in an open U-shape, allowing one to enjoy a view of the Nakdonggang River and Hwasan Mountain. The accommodation feels more like a work of art crafted over years than a house, thanks to the special ideas and modern charms the owner has applied. It was also the venue for Queen Elizabeth II’s Korean culture experience and 73rd birthday feast in 1999.

Tip┃The hanok is rented out as a single property, perfect for family visitors. The traditional building has been renovated with modern features including a heating system, air conditioning, indoor plumbing, and a kitchen.

Hongcheon, Gangwon-do ┃ U Retreat

Summary┃Wellness healing resort for relaxing in nature

Feature┃U Retreat features the award-winning architecture of Kwak Heesoo. The rooms are designed in such a way as to allow all guests to enjoy the beautiful nature in privacy. While the harsh concrete might feel at odds with the surroundings, the floor-to-ceiling windows and open terrace create the feeling of inviting nature in for a visit. Each of the rooms it set at a different height and direction for a view unique to each guest.

Tip┃Each room features its own private, indoor swimming pool and spa using natural groundwater. The resort also features a café and barbecue zone.

Seoul | SIGNIEL SEOUL

Summary┃Luxury hotel with a bird’s-eye-view of the Seoul skyline

Feature┃This five-star hotel is located within Lotte World Tower (554.5 m), the tallest building in Korea and fifth in the world. Hotel guests are assured an amazing view, with rooms located on floors 76-101, and a 360˚ panoramic view of Seoul is also available from the observatory on the 123 floor. Additional amenities include a lounge, swimming pool, sauna, fitness center, and the Michelin 1 star restaurant Bicena.

Tip┃A perk of being located in Lotte World Tower is that you don’t have to go far to enjoy quality dining or attractions, such as Lotte World, Gordon Ramsay Burger, Lotte Aquarium, or duty-free shopping. For the more daring traveler, sign up for the Sky Bridge program to walk across the bridge connecting two spikes of the tower at 541 meters up.

Yangpyeong, Gyeonggi-do ┃The Hyu Glamping

Summary┃Healing nature camp in the Seoul suburbs

Feature┃Situated between a forest and a grassy field with a flowing brook beyond that, The Hyu Glamping is the perfect place to get close to nature. Being a glamping ground, visitors can come empty-handed and still enjoy camping! The Hyu Glamping offers tents with beds, heated flooring, and even large family tents for guests with children. Each tent is decorated with its own unique style, making it fun to choose your tent.

What is Glamping? Glamping is a portmanteau of the words “glamour” and “camping,” meaning a more luxurious and comfortable style of camping.

Tip┃Each tent comes equipped with its own restroom and barbecue facilities. Pick-up from Asin Station (Gyeongui-Jungang Line) is also available upon request.

Jeju ┃ Waon

Summary┃Traditional stone house with a warm ambiance in Jeju

Feature┃Down an alley in a quiet village of Hamdeok, an old stone house has been remodeled into a therapy house. The walls are made of stacked basalt supported by wooden pillars that maintain their natural essence for a truly unique space. The rooms were carefully designed with the consideration of light and shadow directions to heighten the mood.

Tip┃When making your reservation, choose one of the themes from wood, fire, water, earth, or wind, and Waon will prepare tea, bath salts, and a diffuser to match that aura.

Namwon, Jeollabuk-do ┃ Namwonyechon by Kensington

Summary┃Luxury hotel service within a traditional hanok

Feature┃This hanok hotel was built using traditional construction methods gathered by masters of hanok architecture. The charm of traditional hanok has been maintained, while also adding in modern convenience for a comfortable stay. In summer, guests can enjoy the cool breeze while relaxing on the daecheongmaru (large wooden floor in the center of the hanok), and in winter, the warm ondol (heated floor system) created by an oak fire burning in the agung (fireplace).

Tip┃The mini bar in the room is equipped with all you need to enjoy a tea ceremony: hangwa (traditional Korean sweets) like yakgwa (honey cookie) and gangjeong (sweet rice puffs), along with flower tea bags. They also offer a variety of programs such as wearing hanbok and playing traditional games.

* This column was last updated in January 2023, and therefore information may differ from what is presented here. We advise you to check for updates before visiting.