Lake Bled might be essentially the most well-known attraction in Slovenia — and for good purpose. The fairytale-blue water is surrounded by mountains and forests, and proper within the center sits the enduring island with the Church of the Assumption. However Bled is far more than only a picture-perfect view. You may row or take a standard pletna boat to the island, hire a kayak or SUP, or just calm down alongside the peaceable shore. In summer season, weekend markets stuffed with native merchandise, handmade jewellery, and artwork add much more allure to the ambiance. On this information, we’re sharing 14 enjoyable issues to do at Lake Bled!
There’s no scarcity of enjoyable issues to do in and round Bled. Listed here are 14 nice concepts!
Stroll Via Vintgar Gorge to Slap Šum
Vintgar Gorge is without doubt one of the hottest sights close to Lake Bled — and it’s straightforward to see why! You’ll stroll throughout picket bridges alongside a turquoise river framed by steep rock partitions, with the 13-meter (43-foot) Slap Šum waterfall as your reward on the finish. The gorge opens at 7:00 AM, which is the right time to go to earlier than the crowds arrive. Official parking is on the market at P1, from the place a shuttle takes you to the doorway, however should you arrive early, it’s greatest to park instantly on the entrance. There’s additionally a small kiosk for espresso or snacks.
The stroll by way of the gorge takes about 45 minutes. The primary part is dramatic, with speeding water, slim passages, and glowing blue tones on sunny days. In mist or rain, the ambiance feels virtually mystical. As you go additional, the river slows and quiets. On the finish, you’ll discover a small restaurant with a terrace and a dangling bridge. From right here, stroll all the way down to the Slap Šum waterfall. For the return, you’ve gotten two choices: the shorter River of Bushes Path (4.3 kilometers / 2.7 miles, about 2 hours) by way of the forest, or the longer King of Triglav Path (5.7 kilometers / 3.5 miles, about 2.5 hours) passing St. Catherine’s Church and scenic viewpoints.
Hire a Boat and Row Throughout Lake Bled
Among the best methods to expertise Lake Bled is from the water. You may hire a rowboat and paddle at your individual tempo towards the island. Favor to not row your self? Hop on a standard pletna boat — the native ferryman will take you there utilizing a singular rowing approach that has been handed down for generations.
On the small island stands the photogenic Church of the Assumption, dwelling to the well-known wishing bell. In accordance with custom, should you ring it thrice, your want will come true. The doorway price is a bit excessive and the church inside is easy, however the ambiance and look at make it effectively price it. Subsequent to the church, you’ll discover a small exhibit and some cafés the place you may get pleasure from a drink and take a look at the well-known Bled Cream Cake.
Go Stand-Up Paddleboarding on Lake Bled
Exploring Lake Bled on a SUP board is one other superb expertise! As you glide quietly over the water, you’ll have beautiful views of the island church and Bled Fortress perched above the lake. Early mornings and late afternoons are the most effective occasions — the water is calm, and it’s much less crowded. SUP boards will be rented simply alongside the lakefront, usually on the identical spots the place rowboats can be found. You too can be a part of a guided stand-up paddleboarding tour the place a neighborhood information shares tales about Bled and offers you time to take a refreshing dip within the lake.
Keep in Model: Glamping Close to Lake Bled
Hidden among the many greenery round Bled are a number of lovely glamping websites that make for a really particular keep. Our favourite is the luxurious Ribno Alpine Glamping. Nestled among the many bushes, you’ll discover eight cozy picket cabins, every named after a Slovenian flower. Each cabin is charmingly adorned, however the actual showstopper is the personal sizzling tub on the veranda — excellent for soaking whereas having fun with the peaceable forest views. There’s additionally an out of doors pool for heat summer season days and a big sauna overlooking the backyard for cooler evenings.
One other nice possibility is ECO River Camp, a spacious and relaxed glamping web site alongside the river. You may keep in enjoyable tipi tents or picket cabins, seize a chew on the Rex Bar through the day, and comfortable up by the campfire at evening.
Go to the Bled Markets
For those who’re in Bled on a weekend, make sure that to go to one of many native markets! At this location, you’ll discover a market each Saturday and Sunday morning. Browse stalls filled with contemporary vegatables and fruits, dairy merchandise, honey, and different regional specialties.
For those who’re visiting between Could and September, don’t miss the artwork and craft market in Zdraviliški Park. It’s open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from morning to night and is a superb place to wander amongst handmade jewellery and distinctive paintings — the right spot to select up native souvenirs.
Attempt the Well-known Bled Cream Cake
A go to to Lake Bled isn’t full with out tasting the well-known Bled Cream Cake (Blejska kremšnita). This gentle dessert is made with layers of flaky puff pastry, creamy vanilla custard, whipped cream, and a dusting of powdered sugar. It’s the city’s signature deal with and a should for anybody with a candy tooth. Among the best locations to attempt the genuine Bled Cake is at Slascicarna Zima, a captivating café close to the lake that has been making it for many years following a standard recipe — gentle, creamy, and contemporary. Scrumptious!
Hike to the Three Viewpoints Round Lake Bled
For essentially the most beautiful views of Lake Bled, rise early and hike to the three well-known viewpoints. The primary, Mala Osojnica, takes about half-hour to achieve and provides a tremendous panoramic view of the lake and its island. Proceed one other 20 minutes to Velika Osojnica, the very best level, for a fair wider view of the lake and surrounding mountains. Lastly, comply with the path to Ojstrica — about one other half-hour of mountaineering — the place you’ll be rewarded with a barely decrease however equally breathtaking viewpoint overlooking the island and Bled Fortress. The total loop takes about two hours, and that is the start line of the path. The trail is well-marked however fairly steep, so a little bit of health is useful.
Tip: Convey a headlamp should you begin earlier than dawn, loads of water, and put on sturdy mountaineering footwear — particularly if it has rained lately.
Go to Lake Bohinj from Bled
Lake Bohinj, positioned about 40 minutes (25 miles) from Bled, is without doubt one of the most lovely locations in Slovenia and makes an ideal day journey. Early morning is the most effective time to go to — it’s peaceable, and parking is less complicated to seek out. Across the lake, you may go paddleboarding, kayaking, or swimming within the crystal-clear water. On the entrance to the lake, there’s a small café the place you may seize an ice cream or drink.
One of many highlights close by is the Savica Waterfall (Slap Savica). From the parking space, it’s a 20-minute stroll up stairs and forest trails to achieve this spectacular 78-meter (256-foot) waterfall. Different mountaineering routes additionally begin right here, and there’s a small restaurant for espresso or snacks. For a spectacular panoramic view, take the Vogel cable automobile up the mountain. It’s a bit touristy, however the views of Lake Bohinj and the encircling Julian Alps are completely unforgettable. Learn all our suggestions for Lake Bohinj to plan your go to.
Stroll or Cycle Round Lake Bled
A 6-kilometer (3.7-mile) strolling and biking path circles Lake Bled, excellent for admiring the surroundings from all angles. The path winds alongside the shoreline, providing fixed views of the island, citadel, and surrounding mountains. It might get busy with walkers, joggers, and cyclists, so head out early within the morning or later within the afternoon for a extra peaceable expertise. For those who’d like a extra relaxed journey, hire an e-bike so you may discover additional past the lake. E book your e-bike rental right here.
Swim in Lake Bled
A refreshing dip in Lake Bled is a should! The western shore is the most effective space for swimming — it’s quieter, the water is evident, and also you’ll discover small seashores and grassy spots to calm down. Swimming on the japanese aspect is usually not allowed due to the upper boat site visitors.
Tip: Go for a swim at Tenting Bled. There’s an excellent swimming space right here, and you’ll seize meals or drinks on the campsite restaurant.
Take within the View from Bled Fortress
From the water, you may’t miss it — perched excessive on a cliff stands Bled Fortress. Slovenia has many castles, however this medieval fortress is without doubt one of the most spectacular. Inside, you’ll discover a small museum, a chapel, and charming courtyards, however most guests come for the beautiful view. From the terrace, you’ll get pleasure from sweeping vistas of Lake Bled, its island church, and the encircling Alps.
Go to Peričnik Waterfall — Considered one of Slovenia’s Most Stunning
Only a 30-minute (19-mile) drive from Bled lies one among Slovenia’s most exceptional waterfalls: Peričnik Waterfall. What makes it particular is you could really stroll behind it!
The hike to Peričnik takes about 20 minutes by way of a shaded forest. The path is straightforward however will be steep and slippery in spots, so put on sturdy footwear. When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by a dramatic curtain of water plunging practically 50 meters (164 ft). Strolling behind the waterfall is magical — you’ll really feel the mist, hear the thunderous roar, and look out over the valley by way of the glowing water.
Tip: Go to within the morning when the daylight hits the waterfall completely.
Go Rafting on the Sava River in Bled
Within the temper for some journey? Rafting on the Sava River is an absolute should! The river winds by way of beautiful mountain surroundings, and rafting is a enjoyable strategy to discover it. You’ll be picked up in Bled and pushed to the river, the place skilled guides give a brief security briefing. Then it’s time to seize a paddle and tackle the rapids of this scenic river — the longest within the area.
Don’t count on excessive whitewater just like the Soča River; this journey is extra relaxed and family-friendly, with calm stretches the place you may float and benefit from the view. Alongside the way in which, guides share insights in regards to the nature and historical past of the river. There’s additionally time to swim or, for the courageous, attempt a cliff leap! The journey lasts round 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) earlier than returning to the start line.
Public & Vegan Kitchen Bled – A comfy restaurant serving scrumptious plant-based dishes for each lunch and dinner. Count on tasty sandwiches, burgers, and fries — all 100% vegan and filled with taste.
Wine Bar & Restaurant Čarman – With a heat picket inside and beautiful lake views, this spot combines Slovenian and European delicacies with contemporary, high-quality substances.
Oštarija Peglez’n – A small, charming restaurant serving nice pasta and contemporary fish dishes in a pleasant, intimate ambiance.
Gostilna Pri Planincu – A standard Slovenian restaurant providing hearty native dishes in a comfortable, genuine setting. Take pleasure in your meal inside or on the terrace with nice service.
Pizzeria Rustika – Craving pizza? This native favourite bakes theirs in a wood-fired oven and has a beautiful terrace to sit down outdoors.
Slascicarna Zima – The perfect place to attempt the unique Bled Cream Cake.
Artwork Cafe Bar – A classy spot open from morning to late at evening, serving all the pieces from pizza and risotto to burgers, seafood, and salads.
Restavracija Zaka (Camp Bled) – An important lunch spot proper by the water with views over the lake. They serve a various menu of pizzas, home specialties, and wholesome choices.
Let’s begin with the one draw back: lodging in Bled isn’t low cost. Particularly through the summer season, lodge costs will be steep. Fortunately, we discovered some nice locations that provide wonderful worth for cash.
A prime decide is Vila Alice Bled. This trendy villa has simply eight rooms, creating a peaceful, intimate ambiance. It’s completely positioned within the coronary heart of Bled, with an exquisite backyard that includes lounge areas, a jacuzzi, and a pool. Because it’s an adults-only lodging, it’s very best for a peaceable retreat. For those who’re on the lookout for one thing extra inexpensive, Vila Alpina is a superb alternative. It’s near each the lake and the city heart, providing fashionable rooms with snug beds, air-con, and personal bogs. There’s additionally a sunny terrace with beautiful mountain views. Favor a social vibe? 2nd Station Hostel is ideal for assembly different vacationers. Hosts Marko and Natasha are extremely welcoming, and the trendy hostel options spacious frequent areas and a hearty breakfast. It’s positioned simply outdoors Bled with straightforward bus entry to the middle — nice for stress-free after a busy day exploring.
