Jeollado Countryside Getaway: Gurye

Ok let me first say that before visiting, Gurye was nowhere on my radar, but it has quickly become one of my favorite spots to visit. If you want quiet, calm, relaxing town vibes with good views and cafes to visit then I would add this to your list.

My first time visiting was during fall….at least it was supposed to be fall. You would think late October/early November in Korea would mean the season would be changing, but nope. Summer stayed late and the cool weather was nowhere in sight. So instead of mountain scenery with trees changing colors, we ended up experiencing late summer in Gurye, which was not a bad thing. 

Gurye is a town tucked away in Jeolla, about an hour and a half bus ride from Gwangju. There are many roads winding through the bottom of the town up the hills to the small mountain. Off on the side are many different tiny cafes and restaurants. If you follow the road(s) all the way up, you can go to a small mountain where there are stairs leading up to a temple and overlook of the city and nearby mountains. 

Gurye and the surrounding area are easier to enjoy with a car, but if you go by bus there are still plenty of things to do and see. By the river there is a park and long walkway that is so peaceful no matter the season. There are areas to do camping by the water, looking up at the mountains, and giant trees giving cool shade in summer. After being in a busy city, sitting down by the slow moving river felt like taking a refreshing breath after a long time. 

Gurye during the Cherry Blossom Season is even better. The walkway by the river turns into a stunning view of white cherry blossoms as far as you can see. The park side by the city is usually busy with people taking photos and picnics as families meet and children play at the playground, but if you cross the bridge there are a lot less people and perfect spots to take pictures. 

And despite the size, Gurye has a very popular bakery——목월빵집 . The bakery is beside a picturesque stream, and you have to get there early. They have a waiting que, courtesy of their digital device outside, as they have a break time and close relatively early compared to other places because they run out. Thankfully, if you are a ways down the waiting line there is an online link that is texted to you to see how far away you are from entering so you can leave and come back without losing your spot. If you make it in, their breads will not disappoint and the long wait is worth it. 

Nearby are other areas such as Hadong and Gwangyan, which are easy to visit if you have a car and want to stay countryside for a while longer. The area surrounding Gurye is the perfect getaway if you want to enjoy nature scenery and quiet towns. 

Mogwol Bread Bakery: 85, Seosicheon-ro, Gurye-eup, Gurye-gun, Jeollanam-do (Zip Code)57644