Uncover: Seongsan Ilchulbong, Jeju Island

Thousands of years ago, an island just off of South Korea was created entirely from volcanic eruptions – Jeju. One of the central features of Jeju Island is Hallasan, now known as the tallest mountain in South Korea, and a dormant volcano, which sits at 1950m above sea level. That's not all this quaint island has to offer though, as are many natural wonders to behold.

Located on the eastern end of Jeju Island, about an hour and a half drive from Jeju city, sits Seongsan Ilchulbong; otherwise known as Sunrise or Sunset Peak. Now considered to be one of the new 7 wonders of nature, Sunset Peak, as we will refer to it, was also declared a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site with it's incredible 600m diameter crater at its highest point.

When you walk into the vicinity of Sunset Peak, you'll find a number of tourist-catered cafes and shops catering to the groups of tourists that now flock to the area, whilst panoramic views await you just a further few steps away. What's more, if you're visiting Sunset Peak around 1:30 or 3pm, you can catch a glimpse of the Haenyo Divers – local Jeju women diving into the waters to catch fresh abalone, octopus or crabs. There's a trail opposite the main hike that will lead you down to the island's bay, where you can perch yourselves and watch the divers disappear into the green waters, or hop on a boat and take a quick ride around the area.

Next, it was time to climb. Though we weren't ecstatic at the thought of clambering a multitude of steps in the summer sun, the thought of casting our eyes over the 600m crater kept our legs moving – and it was actually quite manageable. Depending on your own pace, the strength of your legs, the size of your lungs and the snapping of your camera as you take in the views around you, it can take anywhere between 20 to 40 minutes to read the peak.

This hike is certainly a manageable one, and well-marked – the white path for those going uphill, the orange is for those making their way back down. The steps themselves, leading the way up to the crater, are well-maintained too, making the climb even easier than if you were to climb a rocky cliff-face.

Whilst we didn't reach the top to watch the sun rise or set, the view was still incredible for the sheer size of the crater that lay before us. As if a meteor had hit and shaped the land into this crown-like formation. Here, you can sit on wooden benches to admire the view, snap some pictures, or simply take a quick water break before making your descent back down.

Find it

284-12, Ilchul-ro, Seongsan-eup, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do

Hours: 7:30am-7pm

Price: 2,000/adult; 1,000/children