Lake Bled. The most photographic spot in Slovenia.

Lake Bled is unquestionably the most picturesque spot in Slovenia. It’s romantic, it’s sporty and it’s fun. Whether you are about to spend one day or a week in Bled, you’ll find plenty of activities to do there. If I had a chance I would definitely come back. Don’t put this journey on hold. Book your stay! 

LEGEND 

It’s said that the island in the middle of the lake emerged, because of the fairy tales. There used to be a valley with a small hill, where fairy tales liked to dance. The shepherd used to graze their sheep there as well. When sheep ate the whole grass, one of the fairy tales broke her leg. Angry fairy tales called all the springs and brooks in the area to fill in the valley with water. And this is how lake Bled with an island appeared.  

ALL YEAR ROUND 

Lake Bled is declared to be a perfect location for all four seasons. I can only imagine the stunning color palette in autumn and how amazing it must be to ice skate on a frozen lake. Spring should be perfect for quiet hikes, as not many tourists decide to visit places at that time of the year. We’ve discovered a lively and colorful summer season. Swimming in warm water, sunbathing, and relaxing by the coastline. Summer is also full of events and festivals, but it’s also full of people and is quite expensive.  

Here are some inspirations of things to do in Bled.  

• Simply rest and enjoy 
• Walk or ride a bike 6 kilometres around the lake 
• Swim, sunbath or rent a paddle board 
• Ride to the island on pletna boat or rent a boat. 
• Go to the Bled castle 
• Eat refreshing ice creams or traditional sweet cream cake 
• Take beautiful photos and try to memorize this moment  
• Ice-skate if it freezes, as long as it is safe! 

SUSTAINABLE PLACE 

For several years now, Bled has been advocating green tourism and holds the Green Scheme of Slovenian Tourism. It’s amazing that the locals are the ones committed to an environmentally-friendly approach. They will answer your questions, show you the way and talk about the green future. Tourists are also expected to follow the rules, if possible: 

• Respect the signs, it’s not allowed to swim anywhere in lake Bled, there’re designated spots for that 

• Public bathing areas: Grajsko kopališče Bled, Velika Zaka, Mala Zaka. 
• Respect private property. 
• Reduce, reuse, recycle. Travel responsibly and make as little waste as possible.  
• Walk, bike, ride. All the main sights in Bled are within walking distance. 

Try to find the fountain with drinking water, it’s free. You can just refill your water, no need to buy a new one. 

THERMAL LAKE 

Lake Bled gained ground in the past thanks to the thermal springs. People would come from around Europe to take a bath, relax and heal. Today, the thermal springs are led to several hotel pools, which are unfortunately accessible to its guests only. The Živa Wellness Center in the Rikli Balance Hotel on the other hand is open to the public and offers a bath in thermal water.

BLED WITH KIDS 

I feel like Bled is a fantastic destination for kids of any age. Under the castle rock lies Grajsko kopališče, which offers a water slide, four swimming pools, and a playground. I’m going to repeat myself, but I think kids will love the boat ride or cycling around the lake in quest for the best ice-creams.  

Now let’s move to the places you should not miss, when in Bled.  

BLED CASTLE 

Bled Castle is the oldest castle in Slovenia, it dates back to the XIth century, but its present appearance dates to the XVIth century. Nowadays, it seats the museum of the history of Bled. You can learn a bit about the life people had in the past in this area, look at the old ways of printing, taste Slovenian wine and foremost indulge in the magnificent view.  

PRACTICAL 

BLED ISLAND 

Bled island is an iconic place of the Bled landscape. The most recognizable symbol of it is the Church of the Mother of God and its diverse history. But it’s the bell tower, where everyone waits for their line. By ringing the wishing bell people recommend themselves to the Mother of God and express their wishes and requests for her to hear them. There’re several ways to get to the island. First of all, you can rent a boat or a paddleboard and get there on your own. You can also hop on pletna boat and enjoy the ride, it fits 20 people.  

ACCOMMODATION

The possibilities are endless, but I suggest booking way in advance, especially if you’re planning to go during the summer season. We booked our accommodation only a month before the arrival time, and that’s a mistake. I got the impression that we were left with not much choice. Accommodation in Slovenia is the most expensive part of your trip, so better check the offerings. This is what booking.com offers in Bled.

TRIPS NEARBY 

Vintgar Gorge – Scenic 2 kilometers long wooden sidewalks above the swift-flowing Radovna river.  

Lake Bohinj – a 30-minute drive from Bled lies a peaceful and quaint lake surrounded by mountains and forest.  

Triglav – the highest peak of Julian Alps, it’s a 40-minute drive from Bled. It’s a demanding hike for more experienced hikers.