Every year, as Seollal (Lunar New Year’s Day) approaches, I find myself grappling with the same question: where should I go to make the most of this cherished holiday? Seollal is one of Korea’s most significant national holidays, usually falling in late January or early February, depending on the lunar calendar. It is a time for family gatherings, traditional rituals, and, for many, a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. This year, I decided to embrace the winter season and head to Gangwon-do, Korea’s coldest and snowiest region, for a memorable Seollal adventure.
Why Gangwon-do?
Gangwon-do, with its pristine winter landscapes and abundance of snow, is a natural choice for a winter getaway. Just a two-hour drive from Seoul, Pyeongchang County in Gangwon-do is a winter paradise, renowned for its ski resorts and picturesque highland farms. As the host of the 2018 Winter Olympics, Pyeongchang boasts world-class facilities like Yongpyong and Alpensia ski resorts, which hosted the majority of the Olympic snow events. For those less inclined to winter sports, the region offers serene highland farms and unique attractions like the Daegwallyeong Sheep Ranch, the only ranch in the area that raises sheep.
Why Daegwallyeong Sheep Ranch?
Perched at an elevation of 920 meters and spanning 205,000 square meters of open grassland, Daegwallyeong Sheep Ranch is a breathtaking destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and interactive experiences. This privately owned farm is home to over 200 sheep, which roam freely across the expansive fields for most of the year, creating a picturesque scene straight out of a storybook.
During winter, the sheep are gathered in cozy shelters to stay warm, but visitors can still enjoy the serene trails and participate in a hands-on feeding experience, offering hay to these fluffy, friendly creatures. A 1.2-kilometer circular walkway winds around the grazing fields, providing a peaceful 40-minute stroll with stunning views and countless photo opportunities!
My Seollal Itinerary
My plan for the holiday was simple yet fulfilling: one day for sightseeing at the Daegwallyeong Sheep Ranch and another day for skiing at one of the renowned resorts. Luckily, the sheep ranch remained open on the first day of Seollal, making it the perfect starting point for our trip. However, I quickly learned that checking the official website for any last-minute changes is a must, as operating hours can vary during the holiday period.
A Foggy Arrival at Daegwallyeong Sheep Ranch
We arrived at Daegwallyeong Sheep Ranch on the morning of the first day of Seollal. Instead of the powdery snow-covered hills we had envisioned, we were greeted by an eerie, misty atmosphere. While the fog added a mystical charm to the landscape, it also posed a challenge for drivers. If you’re planning to visit on a foggy day, be extra cautious on the roads, especially if you’re not an experienced winter driver.
Despite the lack of snow on the ground, the ranch still held a unique beauty. A light dusting of snow lingered near the entrance, a remnant of the blizzard that had swept through Pyeongchang earlier that week. As we wandered along the 1.2-kilometer walking route, we immersed ourselves in the tranquil, almost otherworldly scenery.
Meeting the Fluffy Residents
One of the highlights of the ranch is, of course, the sheep. While they graze freely in the fields during warmer months, winter sees them gathered in cozy shacks to stay warm. At the feeding area, visitors can exchange their tickets for a basket of hay and enjoy a closer interaction with these shaggy, cloud-like creatures. It’s a delightful experience, especially for animal lovers.
Don’t Miss the Sheep-Shaped Pastries!
Before leaving the ranch, make sure to stop by the small shop near the parking lot. Here, you’ll find adorable sheep-shaped pastries filled with a variety of flavors. My personal favorite was the custard-filled pastry—creamy, sweet, and utterly delicious. It’s the perfect treat to warm you up after a chilly stroll.
How to Get There
If you prefer not to drive, reaching Daegwallyeong Sheep Ranch from Seoul is straightforward and convenient using express buses. Here’s how to make the journey:
- Head to Dong Seoul Bus Terminal (located in front of Gangbyeon Station, Seoul Subway Line 2, Exit 4).
- Take an intercity bus to Hoenggye (횡계) Intercity Bus Terminal (approximately 2.5 hours, 14,600 KRW).
- From Hoenggye, take a taxi to the ranch (about 8 minutes, 10,500 KRW).
Final Thoughts
Celebrating Seollal in Pyeongchang was a refreshing change from the usual family gatherings and traditional festivities. The combination of serene highland landscapes, adorable sheep, and the thrill of winter sports made for a perfect holiday escape. Whether you’re an avid skier or simply looking to unwind in a winter wonderland, Gangwon-do has something for everyone.
So, if you’re struggling to plan your next Seollal getaway, consider venturing to Pyeongchang. Just remember to bundle up, check the weather, and don’t forget to try those sheep-shaped pastries—they’re worth the trip alone!
Happy travels, and 새해 복 많이 받으세요 (Happy New Year)!
Access Map
Quick Info About Daegwallyeong Sheep Ranch
Address: 강원 평창군 대관령면 대관령마루길 483-32 대관령양떼목장
Naver Map: Link
Hours: 9:00AM-5:00PM (everyday)
Admission Fee: 9,000KRW
Instagram: @yangtte_ranch
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