Dosol Valley (Seonunsan)

In the Honam region, Naejangsan and the Gochang area are considered famous for autumn foliage. In particular, Dosol Valley in the Seonunsan area of Gochang is said to have red flowers blooming three times a year. In spring, the camellia forest, designated as a Natural Monument, shows off its red color; in early autumn, the red spider lilies bloom; and after the red spider lilies fade, the autumn leaves immediately display their splendid beauty. The autumn leaves that turn the scenery red along Dosolcheon from Seonunsa Temple to Dosolam, and the white snowy landscape in winter, are famous. The Dosol Valley area, designated as a Scenic Site in 2009, is beautiful in all four seasons. Seonunsan, also called Doseolsan, is known as the Geumgang of Honam. Embracing the historic Seonunsa Temple, Seonunsan has dense forests and many strange rocks and peaks. Along the valley, scenic spots such as Jinheung Cave, Yongmun Cave, Nakjodae, and Cheonmabong are scattered. In the valley in front of the Seonunsa Tourist Site parking lot, there is a Natural Monument, the Songak (ivy), and along the path from Seonunsa Temple to Dosolam, next to Jinheung Cave, there is another Natural Monument, the Jangsasong (pine tree). The camellia forest behind Daeungjeon Hall of Seonunsa Temple is designated as a Natural Monument.