The Shilla Jeju – Jeju Island, South Korea

The Shilla Jeju is one of the finest hotels in Korea, and for many reasons. We have reviewed in depth every aspect of this hotel including the location, style, service, and rooms. Read more to discover what makes this hotel such a special one.

Location

Jeju Island, located off of the south western coast of South Korea, is the “must-see” location of South Korea. Home to beautiful landscapes and golden beaches, Jeju provides a pleasantly different asian experience. Those who are looking for a quiet, outdoor adventure should consider hiking Mt. Hallasan, the tallest mountain in South Korea. In spite of its height, it is an easy climb with a breathtaking view of a crater lake and Jeju Island. Jeju is also very rich with water and the island is teeming with pristine waterfalls, such as the Cheonjeyeon and Jeongbang falls. Those looking for a more urban water experience should visit Jeju Waterworld, a water park equipped with a spa for relaxation. During the months of July and August, Jeju celebrates its Herb and Mud festival. Throughout the festival, participants can take part in mud baths, mud massages, and even Korean mud wrestling.

Style & Character:

The Shilla Jeju offers an exclusive experience for couples looking to get away. The hotel is located near a beautiful private  beach, with maintained walkways to make beach visits very easy. The crowned jewels of the hotel are the magnificent pools; the pools have great views, and are always kept clean. Next to the indoor pool, local bands often give performances for guests to enjoy.

Activities at the hotel include moonlight swimming in the pools, going on a tour of a local Winery, and even glamping (glamourous camping). The decor in the hotel has its own unique style that is both luxurious and themed. For couples with small children, there are play areas for young children to use that are kept clean. Kids have free access to the Kid’s Club, but must pay for programs.

Service:

Service at the hotel is very accommodating and goes above and beyond to help guests enjoy their visit. They even have an onsite professional leisure staff; teams called G.A.O. (Guest Activity Organizers) and the T.P.O. (Travel Plan Office) are dedicated to help guests keep their Jeju trip full of meaningful and fun activities. The staff is very nice and well trained, and will even refuse tips.

Key staff members speak English, aside from them however, there is a shortage of English speaking staff, which makes communication with them challenging at times.

Rooms:

Rooms at the Shilla Jeju can be separated into 3 main categories: Standard, Premier, and Suite. Each room has free wifi, a TV, access to room service, and views of the sea, mountains, and/or garden. For families, the hotel provides free cribs for children under 12 months old, and free baby supply rentals.

While the premier and suite rooms are prestigious and kept in good condition, the standard rooms are often outdated and lack air conditioning. The hotel is however, in the process of updating the rooms.

Cuisine:

Those looking for authentic Korean dining can eat at the Cheonjee, at Korean restaurant that serves special Jeju cuisine. There is also a Japanese restaurant at the hotel called Hinode. The Hinode serves great Japanese seafood and sushi, as well as other authentic Japanese dishes straight from the grill.

The Parkview is a buffet at the hotel that runs all day long.

There is also a pastry bakery in the hotel called Pastry Boutique, where guests can get healthier pastries made with seasonal ingredients and natural yeast.