Weekend drive to a mountain-view café in Gonjiam: La Cuesta

La Cuesta in Gonjiam: an easy weekend drive from Seoul

There's always somewhere that comes to mind when you want to leave the city and soak up some greenery. Gwangju, Gyeonggi, which I visited this time, is a lovely little town for a light drive-and-outing near Seoul.

I'd heard there was a place there with a wide-open mountain view and delicious bakery goods waiting, so on a weekend I headed over with excitement.

Address / Directions: 278 Gyeongchung-daero, Gonjiam-eup, Gwangju-si, Gyeonggi-do / 231 Suyang-ri, Gonjiam-eup, Gwangju-si, Gyeonggi-do Hours: Monday–Sunday 10:00–22:00, last order 21:30 Brunch: 10:30–20:30 Parking: Free — Lot 1 right in front of the building and Lot 2 at the roadside entrance, both spacious enough to park easily, with room for large buses too

Is parking easy at La Cuesta on a weekend?

Driving down the wide-open road, a striking space with a calm yet exotic atmosphere gradually comes into view.

The parking area was generously sized, so even on a weekend visit there was no real hassle, and I felt myself relax the moment I parked the car.

Sitting close to a spot famous for its beautiful natural scenery, this place has already built a reputation as a go-to café near Hwadam Botanic Garden, perfect to tie into the same course.

La Cuesta bakery, signature drinks and the 2nd-floor window seats

Step inside and your eyes go wide at the sheer variety of bakery items neatly laid out. A faint, buttery aroma drifts through the whole space and tickles your nose.

Even though I'd already eaten a solid meal before coming, the moment I saw everything, my hand reached for a tray as if by magic. I picked out bakery items that were crisp outside and moist inside, ordered a signature drink, and took a seat on the second floor.

Sipping coffee while looking out at the lush green view through the window was more than enough to melt away accumulated fatigue. This isn't just a place to drink coffee and leave — the space itself is full of leisure and healing, and I felt good the whole time I stayed, living up fully to its reputation as a Hwadam Botanic Garden café bakery.

Outdoor walking trail, picnic space and photo spots at La Cuesta

Every bakery item has its own distinct flavor, so there's plenty for anyone — kids to adults — to enjoy without complaint, filling out the café bakery's menu near Hwadam Botanic Garden. What makes this place especially special is that it doesn't stay confined indoors — step outside and even more varied charm unfolds.

Behind the café building there's a charmingly decorated walking trail and a picnic area, perfect for soaking up nature fully. Thanks to the well-tended lawn and exotic landscaping, there are photo zones everywhere you turn — you can snag a great shot no matter where you point the camera.

Sitting on the outdoor terrace in a cool breeze, taking it easy, made me realize what true rest feels like — the time spent at this Hwadam Botanic Garden café bakery felt precious.

Inside, too, each floor has clean, varied seating well suited for group gatherings, and the sunlight pouring through the floor-to-ceiling windows adds a cozy warmth.

The staff greeted us kindly, and the overall cleanliness and hygiene management were well kept, so I was able to spend the whole time there in comfort without any inconvenience.

Delicious desserts, fragrant coffee, and scenery that clears your eyes — it was a wonderful space where all three came together perfectly.

If you'd like to step away from daily life for a relaxed day with beloved family, a partner, or close friends, I highly recommend stopping by.

It's sure to give you the best café bakery experience near Hwadam Botanic Garden — a cozy, sweet memory that will stay with you for a long time.