Jeju Songaksan Trail Guide (2026): Parking, Cafes & Best Time to Visit

My absolute favorite part of my solo trip to Jeju (제주) in November was the Songaksan Dullegil (송악산 둘레길).

I actually visited last summer as well, but it was just too hot to truly enjoy it then.

But with Jeju's November weather being perfect for a stroll, if you're searching for places to visit in Seogwipo (서귀포),

I highly recommend the Songaksan Dullegil : )

Jeju Songaksan Dullegil

Must-Visit in Seogwipo for November

Jeju's Songaksan is so flat, you might even wonder, 'Is this really a mountain?'

But believe it or not, it's actually a mountain formed by volcanic eruptions!

The unique shape is due to a volcanic eruption that happened underwater, scattering volcanic ash in all directions,

resulting in the gentle, sprawling form you see today.

Unlike the scorching peak of summer, in November, you can soak in the views of Sanbangsan amidst swaying silver grass and

the stunning blue Jeju ocean : )

Especially, during summer, it's mercilessly sunny with no shade, leaving little opportunity to truly savor the scenery.

However, in November, Songaksan offers a refreshing breeze, making it perfect for taking in the breathtaking views.

During the late Japanese colonial period, the Japanese army forcibly conscripted Jeju islanders to excavate

cave fortresses, and these historical remnants still stand today.

While you can't go inside these caves,

as you follow the Songaksan Dullegil, you'll spot several dark cave entrances.

It's probably why many international visitors come here for tours, drawn by this tangible history.

It's not only the stunning natural scenery but also these profound historical elements that make

Songaksan particularly unforgettable for me.

If you venture further around the Songaksan Dullegil,

you'll encounter free-roaming horses grazing in the fields,

which, for a mainland visitor like myself, felt incredibly exotic and picturesque.

Parking

The parking lot for the Songaksan Dullegil isn't particularly spacious.

Especially during my November visit, there were quite a few tour buses,

meaning parking spots became scarce unless you arrived early in the morning.

However, since parking is free,

and there are often additional spaces available in nearby vacant lots or along the roadside,

it's a good idea to visit early in the morning if you can,

or simply arrive and you'll likely find a spot without too much trouble.

If you're planning to complete the entire Songaksan Dullegil loop,

make absolutely sure to stop by the restroom in the parking lot before you start...!

There are no restrooms along the main part of the Songaksan Dullegil,

and the one you find only at the very end of the trail is, shall we say, of questionable condition.

Even after completing the entire loop, you'll still have a bit of a walk back to the parking lot,

so, unless you want to be uncomfortable like I was after drinking coffee,

it's really best to use the restroom beforehand...^^

Estimated Time

✔ For enjoying the Sanbangsan scenery only: Approx. 30 minutes

✔ For the entire Songaksan Dullegil loop: Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes

✔ The wind can be strong and there's no shade, so a well-fitting hat is recommended.

✔ Currently, access to the summit of Songaksan is restricted until July 31st.

Ascend Songaksan to enjoy the magnificent views facing Sanbangsan,

If you're just looking to capture some beautiful photos along a scenic trail with a bit of an incline,

walking just to the red dotted line from the parking lot (about 30 minutes) is enough.

You don't even need to go as far as

the pointy part seen in the bottom left photo!

However, if you have more time,

I recommend doing a full loop of the Songaksan Dulle-gil (송악산 둘레길) trail (about 1 hour 30 minutes).

This way, you can see the waves of the Jeju (제주) sea crashing against the unique rock formations and cliffs,

as well as grasses mixed with cacti and palm trees, typical of Jeju Island (제주도),

and even spot a few free-roaming horses.

Just be aware that it can get very windy, and there's no shade, especially on the side facing Sanbangsan (산방산),​

so it's better to bring a hat that won't easily blow off rather than a parasol.

(A photo captured after countless attempts to keep my hair out of my face!)

For your information, the peak of Songaksan (송악산) is currently restricted

until July 31, 2027, as part of a natural rest period to protect its vegetation.

However, this only applies to the peak; the rest of the Dulle-gil trail is accessible!

Cafes Near Songaksan Dulle-gil, Jeju

✔ The closest option is Starbucks.

✔ If you prefer a non-franchise cafe, check out Cafe Lupin (카페 루핀).

The closest cafe to Songaksan is Starbucks!

It's right in front of the parking lot.

They have exclusive menu items only available in Jeju Island and plenty of seating,

so it's a worthwhile stop if you're a Starbucks fan.

But if you prefer local, independent cafes when traveling,

I highly recommend Cafe Lupin!

This cafe serves the best tiramisu I've ever had!

The interior is charming, and from the window, you can see Hyeongjeseom (형제섬) lined up perfectly,

so on a nice day, you can really enjoy the beautiful Jeju sea view : )

For those looking for places to visit in Seogwipo (서귀포) in November,

Jeju Songaksan Dulle-gil is my top recommendation!

It's personally one of my favorite spots in Jeju,

and it's a trail you can easily walk just by wearing sneakers,

so I hope you'll consider visiting, using this Jeju Songaksan Dulle-gil information : )

Songaksan Dulle-gil Restaurants, Cafes & Course | From Gogi Guksu to Tiramisublog.naver.com

Sanbangsan Carbonated Hot Spring (산방산 탄산온천) Open-Air Bath Review | Is Swimsuit Rental Available? What to Prepareblog.naver.com