Oh, Lake Bled! How beautiful are you!
I have seen pictures of you many times. But, I have to say you are much more magical than I imagined. I was not prepared for the overwhelming mix of turquoise waters, towering mountains, puffy clouds and a hundred shades of green for as long as my eyes were able to see.
The day I set apart to visit Lake Bled started in a disastrous way. Back in Ljubljana, I saw pouring rain through the window when the alarm clock ringed. After some consideration, I decided to go back to bed. In my mind, the opportunity to visit a place I longed to see so much evaporated.
I kept checking the weather forecast but rain was predicted for the entire day. About two hours later, the sun started to shine in Ljubljana. My husband kept saying: “Let just go.”
We made it to the bus station and 45 minutes later we were in front of the lake. Yes, it was dark and gloomy. It was beautiful too but nothing like what I had envisioned given the circumstances.
When we were having lunch, the unthinkable happened. The sun started to clear the dark clouds, and in a matter of minutes, we had a perfectly gorgeous day.
At that moment, the entire light of the place changed and the Lake Bled of my dreams unfolded in front of me.
We had a fantastic day around the lake. In this article, I am sharing some of the best things to do and see in Lake Bled! I hope you stay with me for this beautiful ride!
Table of Contents
Things to Do in Lake Bled
Lake Bled sits on the Julian Alps of the Upper Carniola region of Slovenia. Its origins are a mix of glacial and tectonic activity.
As many places in Europe, it has been part of many empires and changed hands through the years. Its modern “fame” can be attributed to a Swiss doctor called Arnold Rikli. On the lake’s shores, he founded the Institute of Nature Healing and developed therapies considered innovative (or very different) for the time.
Rikli spent more than 50 years in Bled. Because of him, Bled was established as one of the most prominent spa areas in Imperial Austria (was part of the Austrian Empire back then).
Nowadays, Bled is notorious because of its positions among mountains, castle, and island. On top of that, the area is strategically located 22 miles from the Ljubljana International Airport and 34 miles from the capital city.
Now that you know a little more bit about Bled, let’s explore how to spend one, two or three days on this slice of paradise. I am not exaggerating!
Note: This article concentrates on things to do in Lake Bled per se. It has in mind people who visit for the day from another location or people who have limited time for sightseeing. I understand the lake can be used as a base to explore the greater area but nearby attractions are touched briefly in here.
Stroll around the lake
This is a no-brainer. Once you lay your eyes on this gorgeous body of water, you feel like seeing it from every possible angle.
The path around the lake if mostly flat and suitable for all ages. It has a length of 6 kilometers or 4 miles. Therefore, the walk can be done in two to three hours.
Special equipment, other than good walking shoes, is not required. There are plenty of places selling food, drinks, and snacks (you do not have to worry about that). This is more of a relaxed walk with plenty of nice vistas and spots to sit down and rest.
Or, get on a bicycle
If you want to take the excitement level up a notch, why not explore the Lake Bled area by bike? You can rent bikes from agencies in town such as Outdoor Mania, pr1motortours or 3glav Adventures. Helia offers the opportunity to reserve a bike (s) before arriving at the area or country.
Just keep in mind there is not a designated bike path around the lake. You will have to share with pedestrians. During popular times, the trail can become busy.
However, you are not restricted to a ride around the lake. There are many bike routes in the area and some of them may be more rewarding than sticking to the lake’s perimeter. You can access other spots of natural interest or move from town to town.
This page has a map (download as PDF) of the cycling routes in the area. Fine Stay Slovenia has detailed information on popular routes.
Take a Pletna boat to Bled Island
Now we are getting into the aspects that make Lake Bled unique.
There are many ways to move around the waters of the lake but, without a doubt, doing it on a Pletna boat is the most memorable.
The Pletna boat tradition goes back to 1590 and it has been passed down from generation to generation since back then. These flat bottom boats are built by locals and can last up to 30 years if they are given the proper care. There is a special technique that uses the entire body and two oars to move the boat. Once the technique is properly learned, the boat will glide over the water in a smooth way.
Riding one of these boats was one of my favorite experiences of the day. Our oarsman was in his early twenties, and even though he left the country to attend university, he came back to help his family kept the tradition alive. He shared a lot of facts about the profession, area, and country. It felt great to be part of a tradition that brings so much pride to certain individuals.
A ride on a Pletna boat, to Bled island and back, costs 10 to 14 euros. It is easy to spot the oarsmen offering rides while strolling around the lake.
Or, row your own boat
If you feel like doing your own thing, there are several places that offer boat rentals.
Head to the Castle boathouse, Pension Pletna or Gran Hotel Teplice to pick your boat. Most places rent for 12 to 15 euros per hour. Shop around since some establishments charge less for the second and third hours.
See all the sights on Bled Island
If you arrive in Bled Island by Pletna boat, you will have 45 to 60 minutes to explore. If you arrive on your own boat, you can stay as long as you want.
In reality, it doesn’t matter how you arrive. The only thing that matters is that you are arriving at a special place (like the lake itself is not special enough). This is the only island in Slovenia and has been a pilgrimage site for centuries.
The island used to be the site of a temple dedicated to the Slavic goddess of love Živa. Once the population was converted to Christianism, a church dedicated to the Virgin Mary was built. In 1465, the single nave Gothic church with a 52-meter-high, free-standing bell tower was built.
Legend says that anybody that rings the church bell three times (and believes in God), can make a wish and that wish will be granted.
The island is also famous because of the 99 steps that take you to the top of the church (I was told one step is underwater). Apparently, if a couple wants to marry on the island, the groom has to carry the bride to the top. We didn’t witness a wedding, but we saw a guy carrying his girlfriend to the top while all his friends cheered. It was a really fun moment!
In addition, you can walk around the island (which will take less than 10 minutes), see the swan’s nest and have coffee and cake on the café located on-site.
It doesn’t get better than that!
Discover the tradition behind the Fijakers
Fijakers are open, wood carriages that carry visitors around the lake or surrounding countryside. The peculiar thing about these carriages is that not anybody can become a driver. Like the Pletna boat rowers, this profession is handed down from father to son. That has been the custom for several generations.
The other interesting thing to note is the coachmen uniforms. They proudly wear a white shirt, black trousers, black hats and a vest embroidered with carnations, a symbol of the Gorenjska region.
Riding on a carriage is a wonderful experience but having the opportunity to talk to people who have done this for years is invaluable.
Hike to the Ojstrica and Osojnica viewpoints
If you are into taking the best pictures of the places you visit (like me), you cannot miss the views from the Ojstrica and Osojnica viewpoints (and fill up that memory card).
Ojstrica is a sharp mountain that can be climbed in about 20 minutes (but the ascent is very steep). At 611 meters high, it offers sublime views of the lake, island and surrounding mountains.
The Osojnica viewpoint can be reached in 45 minutes (steep too) and it is considered one of the best views in the area (Mala Osojnica). You can continue hiking for another 20 minutes and reach a higher viewpoint (Veli Osojnica). In my opinion, the view from the lower viewpoint is better.
The trailhead for these two viewpoints is located close to the Camping Bled area (Trail #6). Proper shoes are required.
Keep on hiking baby!
Lake Bled is an outdoor paradise. That means the surrounding areas are full of trails suitable for all levels of expertise.
The map provided at the touristic office has instructions of how to complete about 14 hikes starting (or that can be joined) around the lake. You can ask the personnel on-site for hikes that meet your specific needs.
Visit Bled Castle
So, I think it would be very difficult to visit Lake Bled, see the castle from every possible angle and not make the effort to stop by.
I am going to be honest in here. The castle adds the fairytale touch to the entire lake setting. However, the actual castle has a simple design and occupies a small space. This is not one of those huge, jaw-dropping castles you can find in other places of Europe. I am just saying so you keep your expectations in place.
But, the terraces of the castle have ridiculously gorgeous views of the lake and island. That alone is worth the climb up.
This castle dates to 1011 and it has two levels. The lower level has a press, gallery, a store selling honey products and a wine cellar. The upper level has a chapel, a museum, restaurant and the panoramic terrace. The castle main tower can be visited too.
The castle entrance is 10 euros.
Saving tip: If you are arriving at Lake Bled from Ljubljana by bus, you can buy a combined bus + castle ticket and save around 5 euros per person. They only accept cash payment.
Take a dip in those emerald waters
If the weather is warm enough (even though that is not a requirement for some), you can take a dip in the beautiful waters of Lake Bled. Popular bathing spots are located near the Camping Bled area or in front of the castle.
Have some fun at the Adventure Park
During the summer season, you can visit the adventure park at the top of Straža Hill. Activities include different tracks along the treetops. Each track is “conquered” by using a combination of hanging bridges, zip lines, and other fun elements. Tobogganing from the top is another way to add a bit of an adrenaline rush to your day.
Enjoy those thermal springs
As previously mentioned, Dr. Rikli made Bled a famous spa resort in Europe. Nowadays, the thermal springs that were part of his treatments can be enjoyed.
Big pools can be found at the Grand Hotel Toplice and Živa Wellness Centre. Small pools can be found at the Hotel Jelovica and Hotel Compass.
Eat as much cake as you want
After a day of activity, you have free license to enjoy a piece of the delicious Bled Cream Cake.
This well-known sweet concoction starts with a thin layer of crispy dough topped with vanilla cream. The cream needs to have the right consistency to avoid collapse while cutting the cake. The layer of cream is topped with whipped cream and crowned with another piece of buttery dough. A good dose of icing sugar is added.
Eating the cake while enjoying views of the lake is a moment to be grateful for!
Other Things to Do in Bled
Here are other things to do in Bled (if you have the time for them).
- Rock Climbing
- Ballooning
- Geocaching
- Golfing
- Caving
- Horseback Riding
- Volleyball
- Diving
- Rafting
- Fishing
Nearby Attractions
If you are using Lake Bled as a base to explore the Slovenian Alps, you have come to the right place. Here is a sample of the places that can be visited from Bled.
- Triglav National Park – Slovenia’s only National Park and home to Mount Triglav, the country’s highest mountain
- Lake Bohinj – another gorgeous lake. The Alpine Dairy Farming Museum can be visited
- Vintgar Gorge
- Radovljica – visit the Museum of Apiculture (Slovenians seem to be crazy about bees and honey)
- Kropa – visit the Iron Forging Museum
- Žirovnica – the birthplace of some of Slovenia’s more influential minds, France Prešeren, Janez Jalen, Fran Saleški Finžgar, Anton Janša and Matija Č Their birth houses are open to the public.
- Jesenice – visit the ironworks museums and paleontological collection
- Radovna – learn about life in the 18th century through a group of reconstructed farm buildings
- Mojstrana – visit the Slovenian Alpine Museum
Lake Bled Holidays – Itinerary Samples
If you only have a day to enjoy Lake Bled, here are some ideas of how you can spend that day (using the suggestions given above).
- Itinerary #1 – Walk around the lake, take a Pletna boat, explore Bled island, have lunch with lake views, visit the castle, have coffee and Bled cream cake
- Itinerary #2 – Walk to one of the main viewpoints, take a dip on the lake, have lunch, take a Pletna boat or row your own boat, relax at one of the area’s cafes or wine shops
- Itinerary #3 – Spend the morning cycling some of the area’s trails, have lunch, visit the castle and do not forget to try the cream cake
A second day in the lake can be spent doing the things that were not possible on day one, visiting one of the nearby attractions or doing an adventure tour/activity with a local outfitter.
Reaching Lake Bled from the Airport
Private shuttles take people arriving from flights to their hotels on the Bled area. The fare is about 10 euros.
Reaching Lake Bled from Ljubljana
The most convenient way to visit Lake Bled from Ljubljana is by bus. Buses depart the main bus station every half an hour (or hour, depends on season).
A direct bus takes about 45 minutes and a bus that stops on different towns along the way takes 90 minutes.
It is advisable to buy the round-trip ticket in Ljubljana since the return is open. You can return whenever you want (on that same day). Just make sure you do not lose the ticket.
Private shuttles or excursions to Lake Bled can be arranged too.
Lake Bled Weather
If I learned something about the weather in Slovenia, it is that it can be unpredictable. Locals mentioned it is very difficult to get the forecast right since the lake is surrounded by high mountains.
If rain it is predicted for the day you have planned a visit, do not get discouraged. There may be a window of good weather on that day. A good idea is to allocate more than one day to Lake Bled (I know that is not always possible).
Additional Resources
Learn more about Lake Bled and Slovenia by visiting the following sites:
What are your thoughts on Lake Bled? What other things to see and do can you suggest?
Pin me for later, please!
Jill says
The weather gods were certainly smiling on you! Stunning photos! I’ve yet to make it there but it’s definitely on my list!
image-in-ing: weekly photo linkup says
Wow – the scenery is breathtaking!
Thanks for linking up at https://image-in-ing.blogspot.com/2018/05/check-our-catbirds.html
Jim, Sydney, Australia says
Made a brief visit to Slovenia last year. These shots look wonderful. I need to come back and see more.
Lady Fi says
So very beautiful! Definitely on my to-visit list.
Jackie Smith says
Wow! Stunning photos – you lucked out on the weather. Do hope to get there one of these days!
Saša (Slovenia) says
Hi, I’m glad I found this post. It’s written so nicely. Through the eyes of a tourist, Bled is truly “a pearl”. And I’m glad you liked it.
You can also see some of my photos, I live not far away.
http://saskia02.blogspot.com/search/label/BLED
http://saskia02.blogspot.com/search/label/SLOVENIJA
Eileen says
Hello, what a gorgeous place to visit. Your photos are beautiful. I would like the boat tour around the island.Thanks for sharing your trip. Have a happy day!
Sara says
Slovenia – particularly Lake Bled – is so high on my list! It just looks so calm and beautiful! I particularly like your advice to try the cake… one of the highlights that is certainly overlooked when you’re just looking at the scenery. 😉
Amber Tatton says
Everyone who has ever been interrailing seems to go to Lake Bled, and I’ve always wondered what everyone does there and if it’s busy! Thanks for this post, it looks super cute and I’d love to go out on a boat in the Lake.
holly goodyear says
Your photos look great and Lake Bled is beautiful, those colours! I would love to cycle around.. and eat the cream cake!
indah nuria says
Oh my God..such a beautiful place indeed. Love to see the calm, serene lake and the castle! No wonder it becomes famous. My bucket list indeed
Lauren Korstrom says
Im a total lake girl and love this lake! The views are beautiful! I would love to take a boat out and row all day! The island in the middle is really cool! Id for sure be up for all the hiking trails as well! Hopefully no crazy wildlife! 😛
Melissa Downham says
We have been dying to go to Slovenia! We’re hoping to do a Slovenia, Croatia, Montenegro combo sometime soon. Lake Bled is definitely on the list!
Camila @ Adventitious Violet says
So freaking beautiful! I’ve been reading blog posts about Lake Bled for years now and I really want to go! It looks magnificent! And how wonderful that the weather parted while you were there so you’d have this great stay and gorgeous photos! 😀
Josy A says
This looks BRILLIANT!!
You know, I think when you think it’s going to be a cloudy, gross day, and then the sun surprises you and bathes the scenery with it’s warming rays, it is soooo much more exciting than when you expect it to be good weather all day. You must have been so, so happy!
I love the look of the lake, the hikes and the castle. What a perfect day out!
Michelle says
Wow! Slovenia is so beautiful. I love that you were able to provide so many great options outside and of course, around the lake.
Rhonda Albom says
Your photos of Lake Bled are inspiring. I think I’d like to take a boat over to Bled Island and probably hire a bike to cycle around.
Nafisa Habib says
Lake Bred is such a charming destination and every landscape is so picturesque. Great to know all about this beauty in Slovenia. I’m loving how you enjoyed eating a piece of Bled Cream Cake 😀 Making me to have that while enjoying the extreme beauty of the emerald waters at Lake Bred. Truly a stunning destination to explore a lot!!!
Victoria says
Lovely shots! I’d love to ride the Pletna boat and to row my own boat out to the middle of the lake!
beatravelling says
Looks very idyllic! Haven’t been to Slovenia yet, but would love to visit. #wanderfulwednesday
Claire says
It looks gorgeous! The Pletna boats sound fun.
goblinette says
Bled is truly wonderful, but it is becoming too popular with the tourists. We live one hour away and do our best to avoid it during the season. I love to walk around it and have a cup of coffee with a view later, but we do that in the winter or early in the spring. #wanderfulwednesday
Sarah says
This post makes me SO happy because… well nothing compares to Lake Bled, does it!! It’s such a gorgeous place. I really want to go back, especially after reading there are thermal pools in some of the hotels there!! Can’t believe I missed that!
Baia says
Someone recently told me about Lake Bled and since I saw pictures, I can’t get it out of my had. Would love to visit for sure. Love undiscovered places that are not yet popular. And wouldn’t think you could do so many things here. Thanks for sharing!
Deborah Regen says
I think it would be impossible to spend a day or more around that beautiful lake and scenery on such a lovely day and be in a bad mood. I have seen other great photos of Lake Bled before but yours are right up there. Thanks for sharing such useful information about the place. #FarawayFiles.
hilary says
Your photos are amazing! How wonderful that the sun decided to show itself! I would very much like to visit this fabulous place someday, and if I did I would most definitely want to bike around the lake, climb the stairs and hike to those amazing views. Thank you for sharing this wonderful post! #farawayfiles
Jesh StG says
Wow, beautiful views! And plenty to do:)
How are you doing, Ruth?
Kat says
I can’t think of a better word or superlative to describe how beautiful your pics of Lake Bled! I can imagine how you felt when you explored the area that day. Lucky for you, the rain stopped and the sun came out. I would love to go on a stroll and a boat ride. Such spectacular pics! #FarawayFiles
Sharon Wagner says
I can see why you are enthusiastic about it. Gorgeous!
Anisa says
Beautiful photos. I have been wanting to go to Lake Bled for awhile, so glad to hear it met (exceeded) your expectations. Pinning your post for when I finally get there, thanks for sharing on #TheWeeklyPostcard
Nathan Anderson says
Beautiful pictures! I’m glad to hear the weather cleared up for you so you could enjoy the lake.
I’d be all over hiking to those two viewpoints. What a stunning view! o.O
Lauren says
I could just stroll around this lake all day! Ever since following Isabel of the Sunny Side of This, I’ve dreamt about visiting this lake. It’s so gorgeous! Beautiful photos and such a complete list of things to do!
Madhu says
Lake bled is mesmerising. I had seen pictures earlier..reading about it for the first time. All your pics looks so amazing make me wanna visit it right now. Thanks for sharing
Rebecca says
What a great comprehensive guide! I went to Bled and Ljubljana in 2016 and loved it. I must go back.
Amanda says
I want to visit Lake Beld, those waters look amazing to take a dip in.
atravellersfootsteps says
Your photos are amazing. Looks like there is alot to do in Lake Bled
Annette @ A French Collection says
What a super heart sculpture on the jetty – I’d love to get my kids to pose in front of the sculpture, I reckon it would make a great photo. #FarawayFiles
Carmelatte says
Ohh this is like one of the most popular places n 2018!
Mina says
So many beautiful photos and super useful info. Lake Bled looks lovely and the more things I read about, the more I want to visit it personally.
Thank you for the inspiration
Nicky says
Oh my goodness, it’s SO beautiful!! I too have only seen photos of the lake, but it went straight on to my travel list as soon as I saw it – I’m so glad that you decided to make the journey after all, and weren’t put off by the rainy start!
Your photos are stunning; thank you for sharing!
Anda says
We visited Lake Bled last year in May and absolutely loved it. Luckily, it was before the tourist season so the place was not too crowded. Your post and beautiful pictures reminded me how beautiful Lake Bled is. #TheWeeklyPostcard
Angie (Feetdotravel) says
What a fabulous day you ended up having! I read with baited breath whether you would make it and I’m so glad you chose to visit, pay in the back to your hubby for suggesting you still visit. I would definitely want more than a day there! A cycle around, a trip in the lake and a trip to the castle are a must-see for me. Pinned, thanks for sharing #feetdotravel
Rob+Ann @TravelLatte(.net) says
Wow, Ruth – these photos are beautiful! And those views from the hike are just stunning. Thanks for sharing the beauty, and the tips to find it! 🙂
Shona says
So pleased the weather changed for you, and for us to be able to check out your fabulous pics. I didn’t realise there was so much to do when you get there. Hikes, bikes, boats, the castle etc. Pinned for my venture to Slovenia.
Anna says
Bled is one of the places I´d love to visit the most, I’ve been postponing it so far cause I really want to do a long road trip to the Balkans! Had no idea there were so many thing to do there and loved your 3 itineraries!
Corey | Fifi + Hop says
Oh how I am dying to visit Lake Bled! This is a great guide and I like how you include 1, 2 and 3 days at the end. So amazing that the sun came out for you guys on an otherwise miserable day! Sounds like it was perfection! Thanks for linking up with #farawayfiles
Cristina - Memories of the Pacific says
What a beautiful and idyllic place! I can’t believe I had never heard of Lake Bled before.
Stephanie (1AdventureTraveler) says
Lake Bled looks like a paradise in Solvenia. With so much to do and see. A place I have never heard of but would love to visit. Just a stroll around the lake would be wonderful and a swim in the thermal waters. I pinned this for later for use when I visit Slovenia. It is now on my bucket-list. #feetdotravel
photo cache says
I am saving up for some Balkan adventures!
Lydia says
I haven’t visited Slovenia yet but it’s on the top of my bucket list, Ruth. Reading your post made me realized that Lake Bled is a must visit place there. Hiking there sounds like an amazing idea. When would you recommend visiting it to enjoy the greenery?
Erin Gustafson | Oregon Girl Around the World says
I’m all over a ride in a pletna boat! Looks so fun and beautiful Ruth. Brilliant ideas and excellent post. Thanks for sharing with #FarawayFiles
Mary {The World Is A Book} says
These pictures are so beautiful. The whole area really does look like a fairy tale setting. I’m so glad the weather cooperated for you guys. I’m not sure when we can visit this area. This is the most comprehensive guide I’ve seen of what to do. This will be my guide when we make it to Lake Bled. I wouldn’t even know where to start with the activities.
Tracy says
We loved lake bled so I am soooo pleased you managed to go and that the sun came out!
It really is a stunning place and as you say photographs really do not do it justice- you have to go to feel the magic!
Sharon Odegaard says
Wonderful photos of an area I really am not familiar with. Mountains, a picturesque lake — and that castle! I’m looking forward to learning more about the Balkans. I’m so glad you decided to include Lake Bled and take us along with you!
David says
Bled really is a paradise! Must hike up OJSTRICA AND OSOJNICA viewpoints next time and enjoy those epic views. There’s a good reason why this is one of Slovenia’s most popular destinations. #TheWeeklyPostcard
Katherine says
How lucky that your husband (and the rain stopping) convinced you to go to the lake anyway! And that the weather cleared up so much while you were having lunch. I hate it when I have all of these plans and then the weather doesn’t cooperate! #FlyAwayFriday
Jennifer Dobson says
It is indeed spectacular. Love the photos and the experience you’ve shared.
Cherie Rose Martin says
Thank you for giving Slovenia the exposure it deserves. Looks like a fairytale and reminds me a lot of the Dordogne region of France. Have you been? #FlyAwayFriday
Lisa says
That’s such an awesome list of things to do there! I’ve been wanting to go so bad – hope I can make it next year! #FlyAwayFriday
Prakash Gohel says
I think being a little nervous is actually a good thing. It means you are always aware of your surroundings and are not taking anything for granted. As long as it doesn’t stop you from actually travelling!
Caity says
LOVE this post! I’ve been thinking lately about how I usually have my next destination in mind but at the moment I’m totally undecided, and Slovenia is definitely making its way to the top of the list! What a dreamy place. #flyawayfriday
Sandra says
Lake Bled is absolutely incredible! I’ve been there years ago and your post reminded me I should visit Bled again.
#FlyAwayFriday
Nancie says
Hi Ruth. Your photos of Lake Bled are gorgeous. I think it It would be easy to use Lake Bled as a base to see the explore the surrounding areas. Thanks for co-hosting this week. #TPThursday
Bryna | Dotted Line Travels says
Lake Bled is so beautiful. I’m really glad the weather cleared up for you so you got to see it on a beautiful day. I think I’d if I got the chance to visit, I’d like to rent a boat. It would be fun!
Mapping The Map says
What a beautiful place! Hope to make it to Slovenia soon. Thanks for sharing #TheWeeklyPostcard
Rachel Heller says
We visited Bled years ago with our kids who were quite young at the time. There was a campground right on the shore; I don’t know if it’s still there. At the time we visited it was not crowded and we ended up spending a week there, enjoying the scenery, taking drives in the area (only short walks with the littl’uns), and, after the kids went to bed, tasting a different Slovenian wine each evening (none of which were good; I hope they’ve improved since then!). Fond memories.
Janine says
Lake Bled was truly spectacular!! Thank you for joining Fly away friday! Hope to see you tomorrow.