If you’re planning a trip to Slovenia, there’s a destination that should be on your list: Lake Bled. Located in the Julian Alps, Lake Bled is a stunning glacial lake surrounded by mountains and forests, with a picturesque island and castle in the middle. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Lake Bled and how to make the most of your trip.
Getting to Lake Bled
Lake Bled is located in the northwest of Slovenia, about 55 km from Ljubljana. The easiest way to get there is by car, but there are also regular buses and trains that run between Ljubljana and Bled. If you’re flying in, the closest airport is Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport, which is about 30 km from Bled. While we were in Slovenia we took the bus from our hotel in Ljubljana and got to Lake Bled in roughly an hour. It was an easy trip and worth the time on the bus!
Things to do on Lake Bled
- Take a walk around the lake – The walking path around the lake is 6 km long and offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
- Visit Bled Island – Take a traditional wooden boat, known as a pletna, to the island in the middle of the lake. The island is home to the Church of the Assumption, where you can ring the wishing bell for good luck.
- Explore Bled Castle – The castle, which dates back to the 11th century, is perched on a hill overlooking the lake. It houses a museum and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
- Swim in the lake – In the summer months, the lake is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. There are several designated swimming areas around the lake.
- Enjoy the delicious food
THINGS TO DO NEAR LAKE BLED: THE GORGE HIKE
The gorge hike in Lake Bled is an unforgettable experience that takes visitors on a stunning journey through one of Slovenia’s most scenic natural wonders. The hike begins at the entrance to the Vintgar Gorge, where visitors are greeted by a winding wooden boardwalk that leads them through a narrow canyon, flanked by towering walls of rock and cascading waterfalls. As you make your way through the gorge, the turquoise waters of the Radovna River rush below, and the sounds of rushing water fill the air. The trail is well-maintained and relatively easy to navigate, although visitors should be prepared for some steep staircases and narrow sections. At the end of the trail, hikers are rewarded with a breathtaking view of the 16-meter high waterfall, which marks the end of the hike.
MORE THINGS TO DO NEAR LAKE BLED: HIKE THE JULIAN ALPS
Hiking in the Julian Alps near Lake Bled is a truly unforgettable experience that will take you through some of Slovenia’s most breathtaking landscapes. The Julian Alps are known for their rugged peaks, pristine lakes, and picturesque valleys, offering a wide variety of hiking trails for all levels of experience. From the challenging ascent of Mount Triglav, the highest peak in Slovenia, to the gentle trails that wind through the green forests and meadows of the surrounding valleys, there is something for everyone. Along the way, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and rushing rivers, as well as encounter diverse flora and fauna. The trails are well-marked and maintained, with several mountain huts offering accommodation and refreshments along the way.
