Located on the banks of the Hyeongsangang River, Yeongdeok is a small town in South Korea’s North Gyeongsang Province. It’s famed for its snow crabs, which were once only served to kings and are now available at local markets, restaurants and during Yeongdeok’s annual seafood festival.

Things to do

Overlooking the East Sea is Samsa Marine Park, a popular destination for families on weekends. It features an artificial waterfall and a rock elaborately carved with floral patterns, as well as several restaurants where you can dine on freshly caught seafood. Kids will love the amusement rides while cultural buffs can browse the displays of the Fishing Village Folk Museum.

Want to stretch your legs? You can follow part of the 64-kilometre-long Blue Road, which hugs the East Sea coast of Yeongdeok County. It connects from Snow Crab Park in the south to near the county border with Uljin and has been divided into four themed sections. In addition to offering spectacular views, the trail has been created as a means of healing and overcoming suffering.

If you want to taste Yeongdeok’s snow crabs, head to the Gangguhang Port, which serves as the main marketplace for these delicious crustaceans. Wander past the rows of crab fishing boats that line the harbour and dine at one of Daegae Street’s restaurants or coincide your visit with the annual Yeongdeok Snow Crab Festival.

Getting around

Yeongdeok is just over an hour by bus from the centre of Pohang and 1.5 hours from Daegu. Daegu International Airport is two hours away and has flights to destinations across Asia. The centre of Yeongdeok is compact enough to explore on foot while having your own vehicle gives you greater freedom to get around the region.