Experience the Charm of Korean Winter at Elysian Ski Resort
If you’re looking for a fun, hassle-free way to enjoy Korea’s winter wonderland, the Seoul: Elysian Ski Resort One Day Tour might be just what you need. For around $38, you get a full day of snow-filled activities in the scenic Gangwon-do Province, about two and a half hours from Seoul. Whether you’re a first-timer or an intermediate skier, the tour offers options tailored to different interests, all with the convenience of round-trip transportation and an English-speaking guide.
What we particularly like about this tour is how accessible it makes skiing and sledding for travelers of all ages and skill levels. The inclusive one-hour basic ski lesson helps remove the hesitation many first-timers feel, making it easier to step onto the snow with confidence. Plus, the family-friendly atmosphere with sledding and gentle slopes ensures that everyone, from kids to grandparents, can join in the fun.
One possible consideration is the lack of ski suits included in the rental options, so you’ll need to bring your own or rent at the resort. Also, since the tour is quite long—about 11 hours—you’ll want to be prepared for a full day out, especially if you’re not accustomed to winter activities.
This tour is ideal for groups seeking a straightforward winter escape, families wanting to introduce children to snow sports, or anyone eager to experience Korea’s winter landscape without the hassle of planning their own trip. If you enjoy guided experiences that combine scenic views with active fun, this could become a highlight of your trip.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Convenient full-day trip from Seoul to Gangwon-do with round-trip transport included
- Inclusive ski lessons help beginners overcome initial fears
- Family-friendly activities like sledding make it suitable for all ages
- Multiple options tailor the experience, from sightseeing to full ski passes
- Lower slope difficulty makes it accessible and comfortable for novices
- Authentic guides ensure smooth, enjoyable experience
A Deep Dive into the Elysian Ski Resort One Day Tour
The Elysian Ski Resort is one of the closest snow destinations to Seoul, making it an attractive day trip for travelers who don’t want to spend hours on the road. Covering an area of over 200,000 square meters, the resort provides a good balance of slopes for beginners and intermediate skiers. It boasts eight of the ten slopes aimed at less-experienced skiers, which means you’ll find plenty of gentle terrain to build confidence.
The Itinerary Breakdown
The tour begins with a pick-up from one of three designated meeting points, depending on your booking choice. After a roughly 2.5-hour drive, you’ll arrive at the resort, where the fun kicks off. The trip includes round-trip transportation—a significant convenience that takes the stress out of travel logistics. Once at the resort, you’ll have around 6 to 7 hours to enjoy your chosen activities.
The first stop is at the ski resort itself, where you’ll be greeted by a friendly guide. If you opt for the “Ski” or “Ski+Lift” options, you’ll receive rental ski equipment and an hour-long basic lesson. This lesson is a real plus for newcomers, helping you grasp the basics of balance, stopping, and turning. Many reviews highlight how helpful and patient the ski instructors are, with one traveler noting, “The ski instructor was very patient and helpful. If I was not with him, I did not even try skiing.”
For those who prefer not to ski, the “Freetime” option allows sightseeing and relaxing without participating in snow sports, perfect if you’d rather soak in the winter scenery or take photos. The resort’s gentle slopes make it easy for beginners to get comfortable, and the intermediate slopes offer a bit more challenge for those with some experience.
Sledding and Family Fun
Sledding is included in certain options, making this a perfect outing for families or travelers who want to try something different from skiing. Children six years old and under must be accompanied by their guardians during sledding, and sled equipment is provided. The sledding option is especially popular in December when it becomes available, promising a quick, joyful ride down the snow-covered hills.
More Great Tours NearbyFacilities and Gear
You should note that ski suits are not included in rental options, so you’ll need to bring your own or rent at the resort’s shops. Waterproof gloves, goggles, and helmets are also separate expenses, with recommended purchase prices around KRW 15,000–30,000, making it wise to plan ahead. Bringing your own gear could save some hassle and money.
The Experience of the Day
The overall ambiance is relaxed and family-oriented. With lower slope difficulty, the resort aims to make skiing enjoyable without the intimidation factor often found at larger, more advanced resorts. The reviews reflect a positive experience, with travelers appreciating the smooth organization and helpful guides.
What the Reviews Say
One reviewer shared, “It was really great. Everything went smoothly and quickly. Tour guide Patrick was good and funny. I would do it again.” This highlights how well-organized the trip is and how much the guides contribute to a memorable day.
Another traveler remarked, “The ski instructor was very patient and helpful. If I was not with him, I did not even try skiing. Awesome experience on the snow!” This underscores the value of the included lessons, especially for beginners who might otherwise hesitate.
Who Will Enjoy This Tour?
This trip suits first-time skiers, families with children, or travelers who want a reliable, no-stress winter experience. If you’re looking for a scenic day with opportunities for both active snow sports and relaxing sightseeing, this tour offers a good balance.
Practical Details and Tips
- Duration: About 11 hours, so be prepared for a full day.
- Price: At $38 per person, it’s a reasonable way to enjoy Korea’s winter landscapes without the hassle of organizing transportation or activities.
- Transportation: All options include round-trip bus transfers, making logistics straightforward.
- Gear Rental: Remember to budget for ski suits, gloves, goggles, and helmets if you choose options that don’t include rentals.
- Age Restrictions: Skiing is for those aged 7 and older; sledding is available for younger children with guardians.
- Weather and Traffic: Arrival times may vary depending on weather and traffic conditions, so keep flexible.
The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?
The Seoul: Elysian Ski Resort One Day Tour offers a practical, well-organized way to experience Korea’s winter without the need for extensive planning. It provides all the essentials—transportation, equipment, lessons, and fun activities—at a very accessible price point.
Travelers searching for an authentic winter adventure with friendly guides and a family-oriented atmosphere will find this tour appealing. It’s particularly suitable for beginners or those traveling with children who want to try snow sports in a lower-pressure environment.
If you’re looking for a stress-free, scenic day with plenty of opportunities to enjoy Korea’s snowy landscapes, this tour hits the right notes. Just remember to bring or rent appropriate gear, and be prepared for a full, lively day on the snow.
FAQ
Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, all options include round-trip transportation between Seoul and the Elysian Ski Resort, making travel hassle-free.
Can I participate if I’ve never skied before?
Absolutely. The tour offers an hour of basic ski lessons, perfect for beginners wanting to learn the basics before hitting the slopes.
Are there options for non-skiers?
Yes. The “Freetime” option allows sightseeing and relaxing without skiing or sledding, ideal if you prefer to enjoy the scenery.
What should I bring?
Bring your own ski suits if you have them, or rent at the resort. Also consider waterproof gloves, goggles, and helmets, which are not included in all options.
Is sledding suitable for young children?
Yes, children six and under can participate in sledding when accompanied by guardians. Sled equipment is provided.
How long do we spend at the resort?
You’ll have about 6 to 7 hours at the ski resort itself, with the total tour lasting around 11 hours including transport.
Are there age restrictions for skiing?
Yes, skiing is available for those aged 7 and older. Younger children can enjoy sledding with guardians.
Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, especially with sledding options and gentle slopes, making it a good choice for families wanting a fun winter day.
What if the weather is bad?
Weather can affect timing, but the tour is designed to be flexible. If conditions are unsafe, the operator may adjust or postpone parts of the schedule.
This tour provides a straightforward, enjoyable way to experience Korea’s winter charms. Whether you’re a novice skier, a family wanting snow fun, or simply eager to see the snowy scenery outside Seoul, this trip offers excellent value and memorable moments.
You can check availability for your dates here: