As the cool autumn breeze begins to blow, more people are heading to the mountains in search of physical and mental recovery. In fact, wellness travel, which focuses on rejuvenating the body and mind, has rapidly gained popularity in recent years.
With an increasing number of travelers seeking self-care experiences, the resort industry is expanding its wellness offerings. Notably, Monayongpyeong Resort, located at the foot of Balwangsan Mountain in Pyeongchang, is intensifying its wellness programs based on its natural environment at an elevation of 1,458 meters. In July, the resort revamped its wellness center, significantly expanding indoor and outdoor activities such as Aqua Barre, yoga meditation, jogging, pole walking, and healing walks. The resort has also hired specialized instructors to systematically run these programs.
◆Recovery Offered by Balwangsan: Ride the Cable Car to the Millennium Juniper Forest TrailBalwangsan, where Monayongpyeong Resort is situated, is the 12th highest mountain in South Korea at 1,458 meters. Despite its rugged terrain, the path to the summit is pleasant, thanks to the 'Balwangsan Tourist Cable Car' that departs from the second floor of Dragon Plaza at the resort. This cable car boasts the longest round-trip route in the country at 7.4 kilometers, with 100 eight-passenger cabins operating continuously, transporting guests to the summit's Dragon Castle station in just 18 minutes.
As the cabin ascends along the ridge, the lush forests of Daegwallyeong fill the view. By conserving energy for the hike, visitors can take in the scenery below throughout the ride. Approximately one-third of the ridge is covered in clouds and fog throughout the year, creating a mystical atmosphere that feels like walking in the air.
Upon reaching the summit, the cool air unique to Daegwallyeong greets travelers. This area is known for its cool highland climate, even in summer, and the chill deepens as autumn approaches. Next to the station is the 'Qi Skywalk,' which offers a 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape. On clear days, visitors can see as far as Gyeongpo Lake and Gyeongpo Beach in Gangneung.
Continuing on, visitors will find the 'Millennium Juniper Forest Trail,' a deck path established in the Balwangsan Ecological Forest, designated as one of South Korea's 100 Great Forests by the Forest Service. The existing 2.4-kilometer section has been extended by an additional 410 meters of accessible path, creating a fully connected deck that is easy to walk on. The incline has been reduced to below 8%, allowing for easy access for wheelchairs and strollers, with the entire trail taking about an hour to walk.
As soon as visitors step onto the deck, the cool air fills their lungs. Even in the height of summer, the refreshing atmosphere makes it hard to feel the heat, and the frequent presence of clouds and fog adds moisture to the air. Unlike the dry urban atmosphere, the air feels damp against the skin. The gentle slope means there is no need to rush, allowing for a slower pace and deeper breathing.
Along the trail, visitors can enjoy the highland spring water known as 'Balwangsu' to quench their thirst. Flowing over granite terrain, this water is exceptionally clear and pure. A sip of the cool, soft water refreshes the body, calming the elevated temperature from walking and bringing a sense of tranquility to the mind.
◆Building Core Strength with Water: Aqua BarreAfter absorbing the energy of the forest at Balwangsan, it's time to enter the water. The 'Aqua Barre' program at the resort's hotel pool uses water to enhance physical balance and core strength. Unlike traditional land-based exercises that rely on body weight, Aqua Barre reduces joint strain through buoyancy while utilizing water resistance to engage even the smallest muscles throughout the body. Conducted indoors, this program can be enjoyed regardless of the season or weather.
While typical pool programs focus on swimming or improving cardiovascular endurance, Aqua Barre emphasizes core stability and balance. Participants use a buoyant, high-elasticity water stick known as a 'noodle' to support their bodies and create resistance in the water. As participants follow along with the movements, they can feel the substantial weight of the water, yet the strain on the knees and back is significantly less than on land.
The Aqua Barre program at Monayongpyeong focuses on core stability, posture alignment, and balance recovery, making it accessible for those who may feel burdened by traditional exercise intensity. Since it does not require advanced swimming skills, even those with limited exercise experience can participate comfortably.
After completing the movements, participants enjoy a relaxation period floating on the water. The vibrations from the clear, deep singing bowl resonate through the calm surface, gradually releasing tension and creating a pleasantly drowsy moment.
Instructor Kim Nahyun explained, "In summer, it's hard to exercise outside due to sweating, but Aqua Barre allows you to work on your core without breaking a sweat. Exercising in water provides support from buoyancy, helping to alleviate pain. The shifting water makes it more challenging to maintain balance than on land, which strengthens the core and helps with body stabilization."
◆Finding Breath and Balance: Concluding with Yoga MeditationThe complete relaxation sought by Monayongpyeong is deepened through 'yoga meditation.' The wellness center offers 'Balance Chair Yoga' and 'Recovery Flow Yoga' as regular programs. Balance Chair Yoga focuses on helping participants recognize and correct physical imbalances they may not be aware of. This program is advantageous for beginners who may lack flexibility or feel strain, as they can safely follow along with the support of a chair. Recovery Flow Yoga is ideal for loosening up before or after high-intensity resort activities like golf or skiing.
In the open outdoor space, 'Morning Energy Yoga' takes place on dew-kissed grass, allowing participants to fully embrace the morning sun and breeze. This program offers a different vibrancy of nature compared to the indoor wellness center. Various dynamic programs are also available, including 'Healing Walks' along the Songcheon stream and 'Nordic Pole Walking' through the forest. Additionally, 'Forest Rhythm Jogging,' which encourages a slow pace, allows participants to focus entirely on their bodily sensations while breathing in the fresh forest air.
A representative from Monayongpyeong stated, "We are expanding our content to create a year-round resort that offers reasons to visit in spring, summer, and autumn, moving beyond the winter ski-centric image. By integrating wellness programs with cable cars, golf, and nature experiences, we aim to enhance our year-round wellness offerings and broaden the demand for staycation travel."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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