Yeongdeok to Gyeongju
May 12, 2023
A traditional breakfast started us off with dishes that most North American would not associate with their morning meal. Rice and a crab based soup rounded out with various side dishes such as dried seaweed and cam chi took a bit to get used to but were mostly enjoyable. Once on our bikes we were away along the coast with salt spray and fishy odors in the air.
We were just coasting today in two ways. With less than 90 kilometers to ride and a fairly flat course along Korea’s East Sea coast it was a day to take it easy and to take pictures. These coastal towns seem to really enjoy making an artistic statement. As if the sea view were not enough, they indulge in creating beautiful floral displays and original works of art.
As we moved along the coast the towns seemed to move from recreational oriented to a more industrial economic model. However, even in the most industrial of towns a large portion of the waterfront was preserved for recreational use. It was in one of these towns that we experienced the best displays of artistic works.
One was a large sculpture garden on the beach with concrete creations made to look like elaborate sand sculptures. Each one was a unique work of art. Floral displays were also an important part of this town’s identity with frequent elaborate displays.
Our day ended after a pleasant 90 kilometers at a hotel designed as a traditional Korean guest house. Shoes are left outside and your sleeping pad is on the floor. Chairs? Were we are we don’t need chairs.
