Namsan Park

This mountaintop escape from the crowds and concrete is just a bus ride away. The bus will wind up the Namsan Beltway before stopping in front of the Hyatt and from there, several quaint picnic spots are hidden in the green. While you could simply sit at a bench by the entrance, a little trek up the mountain promises seclusion and solace. When you hit the north ring road, where the tour buses are, climb a bit further until you see the sign for the Namsan pine tree forest trail and take the path to your left. Settle in a spot as far away from the tourists as possible before you digging into your picnic delicacies. You can walk off those extra calories on a stroll around the vehicle-free and pedestrian-friendly Namsan trail. Tip: If you make a reservation on the Seoul city parks website for the “Play in Namsan” program, you’ll be able to venture deeper into the pine tree forest.