Cheonsuman Coastal Trail | Travel Course | K-Travel Mate

Cheonsuman is an inlet terrain located between the Chungnam mainland and Anmyeondo in the West Sea. It is home to a world-renowned migratory bird refuge where beautiful migratory birds can be observed. In 1984, a sea dike was constructed as part of a land reclamation project around Cheonsuman, creating artificial freshwater lakes Ganwolho and Bunamho and large-scale farmland (6,400 ha) in what was once tidal flats. This area serves as a major migratory route for birds traveling between Siberia or Manchuria and Southeast Asia. The influence of the West Sea results in an average winter temperature about 1℃ higher than inland areas at similar latitudes. Additionally, the large farmland growing rice provides leftover grains after harvest, which serve as excellent food for winter migratory birds, making this area well suited as a bird refuge. Nearly 200 species of migratory birds can be observed here in one place. In winter, ducks and geese visit, with more than 90% of the world's population of whooper swans gathering here. Endangered species such as the oriental stork, yellow-billed spoonbill, swan goose, and red-crowned cranes are also found in Cheonsuman. The sight of these birds flying in flocks is truly spectacular. Birds mostly move to feed at dawn or dusk, so these times are best for observation. To continue observing and preserving these precious and beautiful birds, visitors are advised to avoid approaching too closely to protect their sensitive vision and hearing, use binoculars or other observation equipment, and avoid wearing red, yellow, or white clothing as well as loud noises. Observing without leaving one’s vehicle is also a good method. Nearby are Changnipogu and Dangampo ports.

Sokdong Observatory is a famous spot along the Hongseong coast, built in 2005 on the seaside road between Eosa Port and Gung-ri. From the observatory, you can see the wide expanse of Cheonsuman Bay at a glance, with a small island called Moseom right in front. In 2012, a ship-shaped photo zone was installed to create a scenic spot perfect for photography, reminiscent of a scene from the movie Titanic. Next to the observatory, a lush sea pine forest blends with the sea, and wooden stairs lead to Moseom Island, allowing visitors to always access the island and enjoy the coastal atmosphere. The path from Sokdong Observatory through the sea pine forest to the island is about 100 meters long, with steep cliffs beneath the observatory. The island's observatory boasts an unobstructed view of Cheonsuman Bay, and the sunset view from the observatory creates unforgettable memories.

광활하게 펼쳐진 천수만과 어우러진 수산물의 보고로 대하, 우럭, 새조개, 꽃게, 새우 등 사시사철 싱싱한 수산물이 있고, 주변에는 많은 횟집이 산재해 있어 홍성은 몰라도 남당항이 있는 남당리는 알 정도로 대표적인 관광 명소이다. 특히 천수만 최고 별미안 새조개가 유명해 미식가들을 유혹한다.

Hongseong Seawall is a seawall connecting Hongseong and Boryeong, and people cross it to eat oysters from Cheonbuk, Boryeong, which can be enjoyed until March. At Hongseong-gun Hongseong Seawall, there is Suryonghang Port and the Hongseong-Boryeong Seawall Completion Memorial Tower. Parking at the completion memorial tower lot and looking around, Anmyeondo Island appears like a huge island on the western sea horizon. Also, walking inside the completion tower to the observatory, you can see the views of the Hongseong Seawall, Jukdo Island, Namdang Port, and the West Sea all at once. The wind turbines next to the completion tower create another spectacular sight. Descending toward the Suryonghang Port side of the seawall, you can appreciate the sea scenery more closely. Crossing from Hongseong Seawall toward Boryeong, it connects directly to the Cheonbuk Oyster Complex. This place belongs to West Sea Road Course 63 and is also a West Coast walking travel route connecting Namdang Port and Sokdong Observatory.