No matter how packed my schedule gets with snowboarding during Korea’s snow season, my wanderlust for discovering and capturing stunning winter landscapes never wanes. This January, I finally ticked off a long-awaited gem from my winter bucket list: the enchanting Dallyon Cafe. In this post, I’ll dive into all the highlights of my visit and share why this cozy yet surprisingly spacious cafe deserves a spot on your winter itinerary!
About Dallyon Café:
Established in 2020, Dallyon (달리온) is a picturesque bakery café tucked away on the outskirts of Uijeongbu City in Gyeonggi Province. Perched on a serene, forested foothill of Surak Mountain (수락산) and bordered by a gentle creek, the café offers a relaxing retreat with stunning views of the mountain summit visible from its grounds.
During the warmer months, Dallyon becomes a sought-after summer escape for Seoulites. Its spacious outdoor seating brings visitors closer to nature, making it an ideal spot to unwind. What truly makes Dallyon stand out, however, is its one-of-a-kind offering: chairs set directly in the creek, inviting guests to cool their feet and enjoy playful moments in the water. This unique touch adds a refreshing charm that’s hard to find in other contemporary cafés.
Why Winter is the Best Time to Visit:
While Dallyon Café is stunning throughout the year, winter transforms it into a magical wonderland. A unique feature of the cafe is its irrigation sprinklers installed along one bank of the stream. When the winter chill sets in, these sprinklers create a breathtaking wall of ice, forming a rare and magnificent spectacle that makes Dallyon an unmissable destination during the colder months.
What truly elevates the experience is the seamless connection between the cafe’s cozy interior and the natural beauty outside. Designed with expansive glass windows overlooking the frosty landscape, the cafe invites the serene winter scenery indoors. Whether you’re visiting solo, catching up with friends, or working remotely, Dallyon offers a tranquil space to unwind and fully embrace the season’s charm.
Adding to the allure is the frozen creek, which becomes a playful highlight for visitors, especially children. The icy surface invites sledding enthusiasts, and the cafe thoughtfully provides free sleds to ensure everyone can join in on the fun.
And if your visit coincides with a snowfall, be sure to wander deeper into the outdoor seating area. The snow-covered surroundings create even more picturesque moments, making your visit truly unforgettable.
When Can You See the Ice Formation?
While Dallyon Café does not provide specific dates for enjoying the ice wall and ice sledding, the best time to visit is typically between late December and late January. This period aligns with Korea’s peak winter season when temperatures often drop below 0°C—ideal conditions for ice to form.
During our visit in the second week of January, the scenes were nothing short of spectacular, with the ice wall in its full glory. To ensure you don’t miss this winter wonder, here’s a helpful tip: check the latest updates by following the Instagram location tag for ‘달리온.’ Recent posts and stories from visitors often showcase the current ice formation status and the cafe’s most recent scenery.
Plan your visit during this time for the best chance to experience Dallyon Café’s stunning winter magic!
What’s Inside Dallyon Café Like?
As you step inside Dallyon Café, the chill of the frosty world outside melts away, and you’re greeted by a cozy, welcoming haven. The interior, featuring rustic wooden accents and soft, ambient lighting, creates an intimate atmosphere that’s perfect for unwinding. Large glass windows allow you to enjoy panoramic views of the ice valleys, so you can stay warm and comfortable while still being immersed in the winter beauty outside.
What’s on the Menu at Dallyon?
Dallyon Café proudly showcases its bakery roots on NaverPlace (Naver Map’s search portal), and it’s easy to see why—their array of baked goods is impressive! Notable menu items include their aromatic garlic bread, savory salt bread, and a delicious variety of pandoro, each crafted to offer a delightful and satisfying experience with every bite.
Tips for Visiting Dallyon Café in Winter:
If you’re planning a winter visit to Dallyon Café, here are some tips to help you make the most of your experience:
Dress for the Cold: While the ice valleys are stunning, the temperatures can be quite chilly. Be sure to wear layers, gloves, and a warm coat. If you plan to visit the frozen creek, keep in mind that the ground can be slippery—opt for footwear with good grip to ensure safety.
Capture the Beauty: Don’t forget your camera or smartphone to snap photos of the ice walls and the surrounding landscape—you won’t want to miss it! For unique shots, try capturing the icy wonders from different angles, such as from the second-floor windows or the first-floor terrace, for even more breathtaking perspectives.
Be Mindful of the Road: If you’re driving to Dallyon, the café offers a spacious parking area, but the road leading up to it from the main highway is narrow and winding. When passing cars come from the opposite direction, you may need to stop and find a spot to let them through, so be prepared for a bit of patience on the way in.
Arrive Early: Winter weekends can get busy, so arriving early gives you the chance to explore and enjoy the café at a leisurely pace before the crowds arrive.
Getting to Dallyon Café by Public Transportation from Seoul:
If you prefer not to drive, here’s a convenient way to reach Dallyon Café from Seoul:
- Take Seoul Subway Line 4 and get off at Sanggye Station (상계).
- Take Exit 5, then walk for about 3 minutes to reach the Sanggye Station bus stop (11391).
- Board the Village Bus 8-1 and get off at Geomeundol (검은돌) (08301).
- After getting off, cross the road at the crosswalk near the traffic light. Follow the signs directing you to Dallyon Café. The walk from the bus stop to the café takes approximately 15 minutes.
Final Thoughts:
Dallyon Café in winter is an experience that goes beyond the usual coffee shop visit. With its majestic ice valleys, cozy atmosphere, and warm hospitality, it’s a destination that combines the beauty of nature with the comfort of a perfectly brewed coffee.
If you’re looking for a place to embrace the magic of winter, I can’t recommend Dallyon Café enough. It’s a haven for photographers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to soak in the serenity of the season. I’m already looking forward to my next visit, and I hope you’ll have the chance to experience this enchanting winter retreat for yourself.
Access Map:
Quick Info About Dallyon Cafe:
Address: 경기 의정부시 산곡동 552-2
Naver Map: Link
Hours: 10:00AM~10:00PM
Phone: 031-841-4400
Instagram: @dally.on
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