Singapore has challenging and scenic cycling routes of its own, but destinations like Jeju, South Korea, offers a cycling experience on a far more breath-taking scale — as the CSC Cycling and Adventure Club found out during their recent trip. 

“At 1,833 square kilometres, Jeju Island is slightly more than double the size of Singapore,” notes Mr Eu Pui Leong, Secretary of the CSC Cycling and Adventure Club. “Singapore has Bukit Timah, while Jeju has its volcanic Hallasan at 1,950 metres, with a crater lake at its peak.”

A cyclist’s dream destination

From 23 to 30 March 2025, 13 members of the CSC Cycling and Adventure Club embarked on a 234-kilometre round-island journey around Jeju — a scenic ride that hugged turquoise coastlines and offered glimpses of dolphins leaping offshore.

The volcanic island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its lava tubes, dramatic cliffs and starring roles in hit Korean dramas like When Life Gives You Tangerines (2025) and Crash Landing on You (2019). But what truly drew the club to Jeju was its cyclist-friendly infrastructure. “Jeju has well-developed cycling tracks, comprehensive maps and clear directions,” shares trip leader Mr BenZ RhiNo. “It’s clean, safe and located not too far from Singapore.”

One standout feature is the distinctive blue line painted along roads to mark the official cycling route. Cyclists can also collect stamps at designated checkpoints in a souvenir book— a fun and motivating way to track progress. Add to that the abundance of accommodations, eateries and convenience stores along the trail, and it’s clear why Jeju is an ideal choice for a self-guided adventure. “Even without a local guide, Jeju is very easy to navigate,” says Mr Eu.

For a fuss-free experience, the club members opted to rent bicycles from a reputable local company rather than ship their own. “They offered reasonable prices and even included a support vehicle that followed us throughout the ride,” says Mr RhiNo.

Weathering the ride — rain or shine

Jeju’s cool spring climate, ranging from 6°C to 13°C in March, was a welcome contrast to the tropical heat of other popular cycling destinations like Desaru or Batam. “It was a nice change for those used to sweating it out under the hot sun,” says Mr Eu.

The cyclists enjoyed two days of clear skies, accompanied by encounters with coastal birds and marine life. “We spotted cormorants, seagulls, ducks and other bird species as we cycled along the coast. We were also delighted to spot dolphins playing in the water” recounts Mr RhiNo. 
But on Day 3, things took a turn. Wind and rain battered the riders as they pushed forward to their accommodation. “The temperature dropped below 10°C,” says Mr Eu. “Still, everyone pressed on — a testament to our riders’ spirit and experience.”

Jeju’s secret to healthy ageing

Their perseverance paid off. Over five days, the group completed their round-island expedition — but not without detours filled with cultural discovery and natural beauty.  Along the way, they enjoyed hearty seafood at a traditional village and celebrated spring’s arrival under canopies of cherry blossoms. “On that fortunate Sunday, the roadsides were lined with cherry blossoms and we were there at the opportune time to enjoy these sakura flowers. The streets were also buzzing with locals and tourists enjoying music, food and a vibrant, carnival-like mood,” says Mr Eu.

While a planned cycling day-trip to nearby Udo Island had to be cancelled due to poor weather and ferry disruptions, the group made the most of it by trekking Seongsan Ilchulbong — a dramatic volcanic tuff cone also known as Sunrise Peak.

Here, they encountered one of Jeju’s most iconic sights: the haenyeo, or sea women. These women — some in their 60s to 80s — are expert free divers who harvest seaweed, abalone, sea urchins and shellfish from the ocean floor, often diving up to 10 metres without oxygen tanks. And it’s a feat they accomplish for up to seven hours a day in freezing waters.

“It was just 7°C, windy and the seawater must have been freezing,” says Mr Eu. “But these women were unfazed. They’ve been doing this for decades — a testament to resilience, purpose and lifelong activity.”

The experience left a deep impression on the group, especially older members. “It reminded us that staying active and socially engaged well into our 60s is not just possible — it’s ideal,” Mr Eu adds. “Even riding short distances in tough conditions builds resilience.”

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Have fun, cycle safe

Planning your own overseas ride? Here are a few practical tips from Mr RhiNo:

• Expect the unexpected. Weather can be unpredictable — pack for both rain and shine. Layers and waterproof gear are essential in places like Jeju.
• Prepare emergency contacts. Know how to reach local emergency support services in case of injury or accidents.
• Check-in ahead for your flights. Two members of the Jeju group missed their return flight as they hadn’t checked in early online. The flight was overbooked and they had to fly out the next day.
• Get insured. Fortunately, the delayed travellers were able to claim compensation. Tip: From now till 31 December 2025, CSC members who sign up for travel insurance with DirectAsia can receive up to $60 worth of FairPrice vouchers.
• Stay flexible, stay safe. If the weather turns bad or roads are unsafe, don’t be afraid to adjust plans.

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Keen to ride with the CSC Cycling and Adventure Club? Click here and be part of the next adventure!