If you’re looking for a refreshing escape from city life—somewhere where mountains meet rivers, and the pace of life slows just enough for you to breathe—Tops10 Resort Donggang Cistar in Yeongwol, South Korea, might be your perfect getaway. Whether you’re traveling with family, attending a corporate retreat, or simply craving nature and peace, this resort checks all the right boxes. Located near the crystal-clear Donggang River and surrounded by lush mountains, the resort offers not just a place to sleep, but a place to unwind and reconnect—with others and with nature.
A Scenic Location That Exceeds Expectations
What struck me the most upon arriving at the Tops10 Resort Donggang Cistar was how photos didn’t quite capture the beauty of the setting. Driving through winding roads past quiet villages, the resort appeared nestled like a secret garden. The design of the buildings, while modern and clean, never feels out of place. Instead, it complements the environment, using neutral tones and low-rise structures that let the natural landscape shine.
You’ll hear birds chirping in the morning, see mist rolling over the surrounding hills, and breathe in air so crisp it feels almost healing. This natural harmony makes the resort an ideal location not just for sleeping, but for recharging mentally and physically.
Convenient Accessibility for All Travelers
Located at 160, Sajimak-gil, Yeongwol-eup, Gangwon-do, Tops10 Resort Donggang Cistar is just 2.2 km from Yeongwol Station, making it accessible even for travelers without a car. It’s also about 31.4 km from Danyang Station and 39.3 km from Pyeongchang Station, offering regional connections to many major cities.
If you’re driving, free parking is available on-site, including EV charging stations, which are a welcome bonus for eco-conscious travelers. I noticed several families and couples arriving by car, suggesting this resort is also a favored weekend escape from Seoul and other nearby cities.
Rooms That Fit Every Occasion
Tops10 Resort Donggang Cistar offers a variety of accommodation types that are thoughtfully tailored to meet different needs:
- Family Rooms: Great for parents traveling with kids, offering futon bedding, twin or double beds, and cozy seating.
- Deluxe Rooms: Perfect for couples or small groups who want a bit more space and comfort.
- Suites A & B: These are ideal for extended families or groups of 4–6 people, with multiple rooms and spacious living areas.
- Royal Suites: Luxurious, beautifully appointed spaces designed for those celebrating something special or simply wanting an indulgent stay.
Each room includes air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, a private bathroom with bidet, a mini fridge, and clean linens. Many rooms offer views of the mountains or rivers, and waking up to that kind of scenery makes you feel like you’re far away from any worries.
BBQ Nights, Café Vibes, and a Forest View
Food at Tops10 Resort Donggang Cistar is more than just sustenance—it’s part of the experience. There are three dining facilities on-site:
- FORREST Restaurant serves buffet-style meals and offers family-friendly seating and panoramic windows looking out into the forest.
- The Grill is an outdoor BBQ restaurant that becomes the heart of the resort in the evenings. When I visited, families were gathering around the tables, kids were playing on the grass, and the smell of grilled meat filled the air. There’s something truly nostalgic and warm about sharing food under the open sky.
- The Café offers light snacks and drinks throughout the day and is a lovely spot to enjoy a peaceful afternoon with a book or journal.
For larger groups, you can even arrange private BBQ areas in advance—something especially convenient for family reunions or group workshops.
Perfect for Family Gatherings and Corporate Retreats
One of Tops10 Resort Donggang Cistar’s greatest strengths is its ability to cater to different types of guests. While it’s clearly popular among families—with amenities like a children’s playground, open green lawns, and karaoke rooms—it also appeals strongly to group travelers.
Tops10 Resort Donggang Cistar features a large banquet hall and several well-equipped seminar rooms, making it perfect for:
- University MTs (Membership Trainings)
- Company workshops and team-building events
- Club or church retreats
- Weddings or private celebrations
The banquet space was particularly impressive—spacious, clean, and flexible in setup. During my stay, I saw a company team conducting a group presentation in the morning, and a large family holding a private dinner there in the evening. It’s rare to find a resort that can so effortlessly pivot between leisure and business functions, but Tops10 Resort Donggang Cistar does it well.
Activities and Local Attractions
Tops10 Resort Donggang Cistar itself has enough to keep guests entertained, including:
- Golf driving range
- Karaoke rooms
- Convenience store
- BBQ zones
- Walking trails and gardens
But if you’re eager to explore beyond the resort, there are many must-see destinations nearby, including:
- Cheongnyeongpo, a scenic bend in the river with historical significance and hiking trails.
- Chosun Minhwa Museum, showcasing beautiful traditional Korean folk paintings.
- Yeongwul Sports Park and Saekyung University, which offer open public spaces for walking or light recreation.
There’s also the famous Donggang River Rafting experience just a short drive away—perfect for summer travelers looking for some adrenaline in between all the relaxation.
A Stay That Suits Every Kind of Traveler
Whether you’re looking to slow down and enjoy nature, reconnect with loved ones over grilled pork belly, or gather your team for a creative reset, Tops10 Resort Donggang Cistar delivers. For me, the most memorable moments weren’t just about the facilities—but about the atmosphere: the mountain silhouettes at sunset, the quiet laughter from nearby BBQ tables, and the ease of simply being able to enjoy the moment.
It’s the kind of place where you arrive with plans, but end up staying still just to take it all in—and that, I think, is a sign of a truly special retreat.
Resort Summary – Tops10 Resort Donggang Cistar
- Location: 160, Sajimak-gil, Yeongwol-eup, Gangwon-do, South Korea
- Distance from Yeongwol Station: Approx. 2.2 km (5 minutes by car)
- Distance from Danyang Station: 31.4 km
- Distance from Pyeongchang Station: 39.3 km
- Room Types: Family Rooms, Deluxe Rooms, Suites A & B, Royal Suites
- Dining Options: FORREST (buffet), The Grill (BBQ), The Café
- Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, Free Parking, EV Charging, Golf Range, Karaoke, BBQ Facilities, Banquet Hall, Seminar Rooms, Children’s Playground, Convenience Store
- Nearby Attractions: Cheongnyeongpo, Donggang River Rafting, Chosun Minhwa Museum, Saekyung University
- Guest Ratings:
- Booking.com: 7.3 / 10 (95+ reviews)
- Agoda: 8.1 / 10
- Trip.com: 4.2 / 5
- Official Website: www.tops10.co.kr
Would You Stay Here?
Tops10 Resort Donggang Cistar is a resort that goes beyond expectations—not with flashy luxury, but with thoughtful design, natural beauty, and multi-purpose functionality. I left feeling refreshed, connected, and already planning who I could bring along for the next visit.
Have you been to Yeongwol or stayed at this resort? Share your experiences or ask questions in the comments! And don’t miss my next post on where to find the best makgeolli in Gangwon-do.