D u m u l m e o r i

We have friends who arrived in Seoul today. We had breakfast together and the wife played 'host' to bring them out after that. As for me, I had a free afternoon to myself! I decided not to join them as I want to visit the scenic and nature side of Dumulmeori. It has one of the best lake and mountain setting that I have ever seen. The cold and dry winter season is the perfect period to visit this place. With fallen leaves, the trees stood bare against the water and mountains. It is a sight to behold! 
With my gears in toll, I made a couple of train transfers to reach Yangsu Station. The train rides took about an hour, and after a 30min walk from the station, I reached Dumulmeori - the head point where two rivers meet. 

This layout details the different routes that you can take, and depending on how much time you have. 

I only have 3-4 hours, so I headed straight to the landmarks of Dumulmeori.

Saw this paper crane building along the way.

It certainly stood out in the neighbourhood.

I cannot describe enough how beautiful, peaceful and tranquil the landscape is.

The place simple exudes beauty, beauty and more beauty. 

Even the birds refused to leave their wintry home.

This bridge leads to Saemiwon, another attraction that I have to miss due to insufficient time.

By gut feel, one of these has to be where I wanted to go.

There weren't many visitors, but those of us who were there appreciate the quietness the place has to offer.

I am sure more visitors would arrive in flocks in spring and summer.

Lake frozen in time

Good memories are captured in time too.

Dramatic effect adds a touch of mystery.

The picturesque surroundings allow one to feel at ease with nature.

Colour brings the boat alive.

I simply love the silhouette of humans and trees here.

It is quiet and peaceful, with the occasional silence broken by the fluttering sound of the resident birds.

The sun's ray casting over the horizon that set the lake aglow.

Capturing a fellow enthusiast capturing his moments. 

A rare moment where I have the whole scene to myself.

The signature giant photo frame art piece of Dumulmeori.

What you want as output will depend on the angle you focus on. 

I have mine on the bare trees. 

My shadow selfie

The purpose of my trip - to capture the bare tree with the lake and the mountains as backdrops.

I am not the only one who enjoys the scenery.

The long shadow....another landmark here.

Not forgetting the protruding tree from the river bed. 

A popular venue for dating couples as it is known for its romantic settings.

Setting sun over a lone boat.

Taking the last few shots before the long walk back to the train station.

There are more to cover, so it is good to give at least a full day to see it all.

Making my way back and saying goodbye to Dumulmeori.

Spotted a pair of cute kittens outside a cafe. They are chained to prevent them from straying off.

Here's the other one, which is a grouchy blackie.

And the proud mother watching them.

Although it was a short trip, I must say that I enjoyed the afternoon at Dumulmeori. To sum up my feelings? Well, I will definitely come back again, and the next time, I would bring Sharon. She would probably complain of the cold, as well as the lone journey. Plus, there wouldn't be any shopping for her. 

But the beauty of this place will overwhelm all the negativity. She will change her mind after seeing my posted photos, as well as those that I have not. In fact, I have not done justice to capture all its beauty. It is so good that the only way to appreciate it is, to keep going back.

And another travel trip awaiting....