Tranquility Abounds: A Perfect Day at Stunning Lake Bled

Date of travel: Apr 27, 2018

Lake Bled, a globally recognized gem, boasts breath taking panoramas, tranquil waters, majestic mountains, and historical landmarks. The lake, Bled Castle, and Bled Island have become Slovenia's most iconic symbols, attracting romantics and honeymooners worldwide.

Geographical Highlights:
Lake Bled:
Located in north western Slovenia within the Julian Alps, Lake Bled originated from a glacier’s melting. Fed by natural springs and underground rivers, the lake’s blue waters are a sight to behold. Measuring 2.1 km long and 1.3-1.4 km wide, it reaches a maximum depth of 30 meters.
Julian Alps: Julian Alps are part of Eastern Alps mountain ranges in north eastern Italy and Slovenia.

Our Excursion:
During our April 2018 trip to Croatia and Slovenia, we took a picturesque one-hour drive from Ljubljana to Lake Bled. The scenic journey covered 55 km, and we arrived at Bled town adjoining the lake.

Bled Island:
The island is a must-visit destination. Located at the centre of the lake, Bled Island is accessible by traditional “Pletna” boats. Pletna boats are wooden flat bottomed boats and rowed in a standing posture by oarsmen or pletners. One can sail to the island almost every day of the year in a Pletna, except for some odd days in winter when lake becomes frozen.
Small rowing boats and electric motorboats are available too.

The island’s charming atmosphere, surrounded by forests and mountains, is enhanced by the lake’s limestone bottom reflecting sunlight. Visitors can explore the island’s buildings, including the iconic Church of the Assumption of Mother Mary.

The Church:
The church features a 52-meter-high bell tower and a wishing bell with a legend that grants wishes when rung three times. There is a famous 99-step staircase from the ground till the church offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, town, and Bled Castle.

Another legend goes like that the groom has to carry the bride up all 99 steps if the couple wants to get married in the church (I was sweating a lot hearing this).

Other Attractions on the Island:
Potica House: A traditional bakery opened in an old heritage building on the island. They sell delicious mouth- watering traditional Slovenian Potica (pastry and cakes with various fillings).
Island itself has a small natural springs and a surrounding walkway which is ideal for strolling while enjoying idyllic nature in its tranquil best.

Bled Castle:

Perched on a sheer cliff 130 meters above the lake, this medieval castle captivates visitors with stunning views and rich history. With an entrance fee of 18 euros per adult, the castle is a must-visit. Though the inclined slope from the parking area to the location of lower courtyard was a bit steep, stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains were superb.

Mixture of elegant Romanesque and Gothic structure, this 11 th century well preserved castle is undoubtedly one of the most famous among other 530 Slovenian castles.

Bled Town:
The town is small but charming and surrounds the lake. It offers a cosy atmosphere with its small souvenir shops, lovely cafes, and quiet lakeside restaurants.

Various Activities:

A 6 Km long circular walking trail around the lake gifts you physically fitness as well as emotional calmness with its serene atmosphere.

Cycling and Hiking: Trails are abundant in the surrounding mountains. Water Sports: Swimming, paddle boating, kayaking are very popular in the lake. Water temperature is usually comfortable and in the range of 16-25 degree Celsius.
Swimming in the lake is free except for entering designated bath areas. June to September is the best time to swim. The lake water is so clean that it was awarded Blue Flag as proof of its compliance with environmental standards.

Paragliding: Slovenia is one of the best known paragliding destinations in the world. Well- trained trainers and guides allow one to enjoy the beauty of Julian Alps while flying over lake Bled or Lake Bohinj or other paragliding spots.

How to Reach:

  • By Air: Nearest airport is at Ljubljana,35 Km from the lake.
  • By Train: Closest station is 4 km away and known as Lesce-Bled.
  • By Road: By bus, private cab or rental car from Ljubljana or from nearby cities. Taxi service is available in the town.

Local Cuisine:

Fresh fish like Trout from the lake, Carniolan sausages, flavourful mountain cheese and local honey are a must try. Most famous sweet of the Bled town is the original and famous Bled Cream Cake, a rich puff pastry dessert layered with vanilla custard and whipped cream. The cake is one of the biggest attractions to tourists and it really tastes heavenly.

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