Boutique Hotels in South Korea

Many of South Korea's top hotels are big urban high-rises or striking seaside resorts. These are brilliant, and deservedly popular, but our Gurus have also chosen to highlight some smaller-scale favourites, for romantic couples, families or groups of friends seeking a more intimate boutique experience. Whether you're eager to experience the glittering metropolis that is Seoul, to journey to fascinating Jeju Island or to discover the magic of ancient Gyeongju, gorgeous little hotels await. Some family-owned and run, others independent projects or local hotel groups, these boutique boltholes in South Korea promise a warm welcome. Many have soothing spas, wonderful regional restaurants, and refreshing swimming pools, perfect for an indulgent and restorative holiday. Glitzy and glamorous, or tranquil and traditional, our list has it all!

For Grown-Up Glamour

Art Paradiso, a glamorous 58-bedroom boutique hotel, will delight well-heeled romantics and partygoers. Set within the enormous Paradise City entertainment complex near Incheon, the hotel is bedecked in moody, metallic tones, with velvet upholstery and marble bathrooms. Sink into the swimming pool, kick back at the superb spa or sip cocktails in gorgeous bars. Splendid.
Banyan Tree Club & Spa, a smart Seoul hotel, boasts 50 swish rooms and suites with polished wooden floors, crisp white linens and expansive views of Mount Namsam and the city. Private plunge pools, sink-into bathtubs, a soothing spa, gym and multiple restaurants complete the picture. Contemporary, minimalist and very grown-up.

For a Villa Escape

Bayhill Pool & Villa, set on a hillside on Jeju Island, is a collection of 29 individually designed modern villas. Understated, light-filled spaces have plunge pools, contemporary furnishings and floor-to-ceiling windows framing island views. Well-equipped kitchens encourage couples, families or groups of friends to self-cater, but there's also an onsite restaurant. The spa adds to the boutique feel.

For Traditional Tranquility

IJE Gyeongju, with its white and dusky pink palette, aims to create a rejuvenating sense of calm. On the edge of Gyeongju, this restful haven is made up of 25 guest rooms with big cypress tubs and leafy garden views, plus a restorative spa and regional restaurant. Explore historic Gyeongju, returning for a traditional tea ceremony or refreshing dip in the pool. Romantic bliss.
Hotel HaruSida encourages pure relaxation with its 11 traditional suites, and pale wood-framed hot tubs on private terraces. Cosy beds sit on woven or wooden floors, sliding doors partition minimalist spaces, and low tables encourage laid-back morning tea or coffee. The regional restaurant and wine bar are popular — and appealingly romantic. A classic choice which prides itself on understated simplicity.
Zen Hideaway @ Jeju, with its exposed brick walls, eclectic mid-century furnishings and industrial feel, is less overly traditional. The big basalt bathtubs, however, foster a feeling of timeless tranquility, perfect for long soaks. Another Jeju Island favourite, this 10-bedroom, adults-only bolthole has two swimming pools and an inviting restaurant right at the ocean's edge.

STILL NOT SURE?

Expand your search to consider Eight Family Friendly Hotels in South Korea.
Alternatively, check out our list of the best places to stay in South Korea.
Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

6 Boutique Boltholes in South Korea

Banyan Tree Club and Spa

Seoul

A stylish spa hotel at the foot of Mt. Namsan, nestled in an urban oasis. Spacious rooms with breathtaking views and private pools are the height of luxury. Guests can dine at diverse restaurants, unwind at the renowned spa, or stay active with top-notch sports facilities. Perfect for a city escape.

Spa breaks - Indulge yourself with world-class treatments, an ice fountain, and highly-trained therapists at this luxurious urban retreat
Active Holiday - Enjoy state-of-the-art sports facilities, including tennis courts, a driving range, and a football pitch
Golf - Play a round of golf at the high-tech driving range managed by the renowned Troon Golf Academy
Local markets - Explore the nearby historic sites and vibrant markets of downtown Seoul, just minutes away

from $377 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Hotel HaruSida

Jeju Island (Seogwipo)

A tranquil boutique bolthole offering romantic serenity. Think cosy beds on traditional wooden & woven floors, low tables for early morning tea, and sliding doors revealing hot tubs on private terraces. The restaurant serves terrific regional cuisine & wonderful wine. A quiet & understated gem.

Hideaway - A tranquil boutique choice for a restful hideaway as a couple, with traditional interiors and lots of charm
Romantic Break - Romantic couples will adore the understated, spacious suites with hot tubs & the delicious cuisine
Great walks - Scenic walks abound in the island's interior, with sunrise & sunset hikes and bird watching opportunities
Restaurant - Savour traditional Korean cuisine in the relaxed restaurant, plus a tipple or two at the wine bar

from $174 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Art Paradiso

Incheon (South Korea)

An opulent boutique bolthole in the imposing Paradise City entertainment complex. The elegant guest rooms boast moody tones, velvet upholstery and mirrored surfaces, plus marble bathrooms. Two glamorous bars and a serene spa await, with stacks of art deco style. One for lavish, all-night parties.

Romantic Break - A glamorous bolthole within the impressive Paradise City complex, perfect for romantics seeking indulgence
Groups - A fabulous party hotspot for those dreaming of a deluxe boutique base with casino & club
Lively area - Part of the enormous Paradise City entertainment complex, which boasts an art museum, restaurants & amusement park
Local markets - The Sinpo International Market and Incheon Chinatown are both brilliant for keen explorers to discover on foot

from $263 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Bayhill Pool & Villa

Jeju Island (South Korea)

A collection of stylish contemporary villas with refreshing plunge pools and superb island views. Minimalist interiors have polished wooden floors, white-painted walls, striking floor-to-ceiling windows & crisp white linens on big beds. There's also a restaurant and spa. Very spoiling.

Groups - A selection of swish, modern villas with private plunge pools, sitting rooms & dining spaces, perfect for lively group trips
Families - Multi-bedroom contemporary villas with private pools are ideal for families or groups of friends
Great walks - Hiking trails abound in Jeju's mountainous interior, with dramatic viewpoints for stunning sunsets
Restaurant - International and Korean cuisine using fresh island ingredients is served at Narnia Restaurant

from $143 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Zen Hideaway@Jeju

Jeju Island (South Korea)

An unpretentious boutique bolthole overlooking the sea on Jeju. This adults-only gem has an industrial feel, with exposed brick walls, eclectic mid-century furnishings & big basalt tubs for soothing soaks. Two swimming pools, a relaxed restaurant & friendly team complete the experience.

Romantic Break - Romantic couples will appreciate the privacy of the duplex suites, which boast ocean-view balconies & huge basalt tubs
Hideaway - As the name suggests, this is a tranquil hideaway for adults on Jeju Island, with striking views & mid-century style
Views - Striking sea views from the restaurant, pool and guest rooms
Great walks - Speak to the team about scenic Yongmeori Coast walks or mountain hikes in the island's interior — the views are dazzling

from $171 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

IJE Gyeongju

Gyeongju (South Korea)

A restful haven on the edge of charming Gyeongju, with minimalist interiors in white & dusky pink terracotta and lovely gardens. Big cypress tubs invite guests to unwind after traditional tea ceremonies & spa treatments. Regional specialities are conjured up in the restaurant. A soothing spot.

Romantic Break - A tranquil, romantic escape on the edge of beautiful Gyeongju, promising minimalist style, gourmet fare & relaxation aplenty
Total relaxation - Soothing soaks in big cypress tubs, along with aromatherapy & traditional spa treatments invite guests to totally unwind
Learning - Guided walks through the well-preserved historic heart of Gyeongju, with its statues & pagodas, are not to be missed
Restaurant - Savour delicious seasonal Gyeongju specialties in the minimalist restaurant, which offers great breakfasts and dinners

from $270 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

6 Boutique Boltholes in South Korea

For Grown-Up Glamour

For a Villa Escape

For Traditional Tranquility

STILL NOT SURE?

6 Boutique Boltholes in South Korea

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