Away from the hustle and bustle of urban Seoul, the town of Gapyeong offers a quiet, natural setting in the heart of the Korean countryside.** Located just two hours from the capital, this destination is a must for fans of Korean series, particularly K-dramas. Gapyeong is home to several interesting attractions celebrating Korean and foreign culture. The city's lush green hills and blue rivers make it an ideal place to immerse yourself in Korean nature. Its superb landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for walks and photo opportunities. The streets and tree-lined cafés on the island of Nami provide a romantic atmosphere. In short, you can explore one of the most beautiful gardens in Korea, cycle through the hills and over the abandoned railway lines. And where there's romance, there's France... Gapyeong takes its travellers to Petite France. In short, it's the perfect trip for lovers or the whole family.
Gapyeong, a picturesque little town, is the perfect way to get away from the hustle and bustle of Seoul and into a haven of peace. It's also a favourite place for Koreans to recharge their batteries. A weekend is more than enough time to visit all its attractions.
The river from Bukhan to Gaypeong
- © Stock for you / ShutterstockNami Island, located 3.8km south of Gapyeong district, is a large artificial lake created by the Cheongpyeong dam. This small piece of land has become popular with fans of Hallyu (a phenomenon of Korean culture) thanks to the success of the TV series "Winter Sonata", filmed in part on this island.
The island is home to many trees, including Korean pine, sequoia, white birch and ginkgo, creating numerous romantic nature trails. As well as hiking, this paradise has facilities for a variety of indoor and outdoor activities, including cycling, and cultural discovery with exhibitions, museums and craft workshops.
Two Korean girls walking in the nami park
- © anek.soowannaphoom / ShutterstockThe island of Nami (also known as Naminara or Namiseom) has many artistic, recreational and sporting activities. Cycling is a fun experience for two or four along a disused railway track.
Inaugurated in 1996, the Jardin du Matin Calme is the oldest private garden in the country. Covering an area of 30,000m2, it is home to a multitude of plant and insect species. A veritable natural paradise, it offers a vibrant landscape and atmosphere in every season. The gardens are vast, with 27 different themed gardens to explore. You should allow at least 2 to 3 hours to wander the paths and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Nestling in the valley among the mountains, the garden hides a number of little gems that can be discovered on a stroll, from the suspension bridge to its beautiful chapel. We then head for the Korean garden, with an uninterrupted view of the Sunken garden. After a break in the tea room, the walk continues with the incredible juniper tree, carved and sculpted over many years.
Vue sur la Petite France de Corée
- © soshigonal / ShutterstockLocated near Nami Island, Petite France in South Korea is a village made up of 16 French-style buildings. Everything is French, even the restaurants offer French-style cuisine. Visitors can also discover a wide variety of beautiful cups and a collection of saucers in its one and only museum. This place has become popular thanks to a few TV dramas: Mon amour venu des étoiles (2013), Le jardin secret (2011), Personal Taste (2009). This cute, romantic village has a lot of references to France, starting with literature with The Little Prince.
According to the Visit Korea tourist office, there are several buses to Petite France from different directions. From the Dong Seoul bus terminal or the Sang Bong bus terminal: take the intercity bus to Cheongpyeong. From the Cheongpyeong terminal, take the local bus or the Gapyeong Tour Bus to Petite France. The bus runs 7 times a day, from 8.30am to 5.30pm.
The art and design museum
Less touristy and less well known, the Koo House art and design museum has also carved out a niche for itself in Gapyeong. It offers a colourful, fun and artistic touch.
Koo House is a private museum with a private collection of contemporary art and design. The museum's concept is "Living with art". The galleries are separated into each room of a house and the art has been organised through a personal vision that answers the question (mind you, it's far-fetched) "how can paintings, sculptures, photographs and furniture come together to present a completely intimate perspective into the work of the world's most prominent artists and designers?"
The museum features works by renowned international artists such as Damien Hirst, Yoshitomo Nara, James Turrell and Andy Warhol, as well as some amazing Korean artists such as Paik Nam June, Choi Jeong Hwa and Bae Hyung Kyung.
