South Korea Ski & Snow Adventure: Seoul & Pyeongchang - 5 Days

Day 1: Arrive in South Korea, Highlights of Seoul Tour

Welcome to South Korea! Touch down in the dizzying capital, Seoul, where your driver will be waiting to take you to your hotel. Get your first glimpse of this futuristic metropolis, a sprawling mass of towering skyscrapers set against ancient Buddhist temples, landscaped sculpture parks, and mazelike street markets. Fashion, tech, and karaoke loom large in Seoul, alongside historical palaces and museums.

Settle in and then head out on a guided tour of the city. Begin at Gyeongbokgung palace, the residence of the Joseon Dynasty's royal family from the late 1300s to 1910. Watch the guard changing ceremony at the Gwanghwamun area and stroll through the palace's ornate pavilions and halls. Next, continue to Bukchon Hanok Village, which showcases hanoks (traditional Korean houses). The site is now home to numerous themed museums and galleries, stylish cafés, and teahouses.

Day 2: Transfer to Pyeongchang, Visit Nami Island & Gangchon Rail Bike Park

This morning, travel two hours east to Pyeongchang county, known for its rural scenery and the impressive Odaesan National Park. Start exploring the area with a trip to the famous Nami Island, which lies in the middle of the North Han River. Beloved for its spring cherry blossoms and autumn foliage, winter transforms the island into a wonderland, with snow covering the pagodas and birch trees.

Next, enjoy a unique cycling adventure at Gangchon Rail Bike Park. Board a two-or-four-seater carriage with pedals to power yourself along a disused railway track. The journey will take you through the countryside, with rice paddy and mountain views. Pedal through various tunnels, each with a different theme, from bubbles to a party tunnel with strobe lighting and disco music. Disembark at Nanggu Village for a final ride on the Romance Train along the Bukhan River.

Day 3: Skiing in Yong Pyong (Day 1)

Strap on your skis for a thrilling winter adventure at South Korea's largest ski resort, Yong Pyong. The resort was the official venue for the technical alpine skiing events at the 2018 Winter Olympics and is home to 14 cable lifts and the longest gondola course in Asia, which offers panoramic views of Balwangsan mountain. Ride to the summit of Dragon Peak at 4,783 feet (1,458 m) for more spectacular views of the Taebaek Mountain Range.

Enjoy expert-led ski and snowboard lessons and explore 28 different slopes that cater to all abilities. A favorite is Rainbow Paradise, the second-longest slope in South Korea. If you visit during the resort's annual ski festival, usually held between mid-December and early April, you'll enjoy competitions, performances, and hands-on snow-sport programs. After a day on the slopes, relax in your cozy Swiss-style hotel with drinks and dinner.

Day 4: Skiing in Yong Pyong (Day 2)

Enjoy another day of snow-packed activities. Ski or snowboard to your heart's content, whizzing down sparkling slopes surrounded by alpine scenery. Take a break to dine at one of the resort's chic eateries and enjoy a hot chocolate by the fireplace. For a change of pace, hop on a sled to sample the resort's 650-foot-long (200 m) sledding slope, which is a particular hit with kids. You can also tee off at the on-site 45-hole golf course or splash around at the resort's water park.

Day 5: Return to Seoul, Depart

Today your winter adventure in South Korea comes to an end. Your driver will take you back to Seoul in time to board your homebound flight. Safe travels!