Lake Bled in Slovenia is what picture postcards are made of. An island in the middle of a lake, with a church perched upon it! In the morning light with a slight fog, framed by soaring mountains, Lake Bled could look straight out of a fairy-tale.
Lake Bled in early morning light
A few weeks ago, I visited Slovenia for a late summer break with a few friends. And, of course, Lake Bled was on the itinerary. In fact, we made Bled our base for 2 days, to explore the town and the nearby areas in the Triglav National Park.
What to do in Bled
Bled Island
To get to the island, we had an option to either rent a boat and row ourselves or take a pletna boat tour and let someone else do all the hard work. Approaching the island on a boat was such a beautiful way to see it in all its natural glory. It was calm and serene, with the turquoise waters shimmering in sunlight, the gentle sound of water lapping against the wooden boat, and the sounds of a bell chiming in the island church. Once on the island, we climbed the steps up to take in the views from all sides. I bought the ticket for the clock tower and church but I think I could have easily done without it. Over-rated, IMHO!
The lake, the island and the church.
No, I didn’t row any boat. I am just a poser 😉
Outfit details: Top – Pimkie, Jeans – Gap, Sunglasses – Ray Ban, Bag – Fossil, Shoes – Asos
Bled Castle
For the best view of the island, it is recommended to go to Bled Castle. However, according to the reviews, there is nothing much to see in the castle except the view of the island. I found the entry fee a bit steep, so gave it a skip.
Bled Castle
Nearby
Vintgar Gorge
When in Bled, Vintgar Gorge in the Triglav National Park is a must-see! I cannot recommend it enough. It is a very easy and undemanding hike on a wooden boardwalk that takes you through the ravine to Šum waterfall. Throughout the trail, the wooden walkway follows the Radovna River, at times gushing and gurgling, and at times flowing peacefully in shallow pools. The greenery, the vertical walls of the rocky ravine, and the changing colours of the river are simply unforgettable.
The wooden boardwalk
The gushing Radovna River
The emerald river making a shallow pool
A waterfall on the way, there is another one at the end of trail.
Other things to do – Swim in the Blue Lagoon, eat the famous Cream Cake, hike to Ojstrica for best view of the lake, sled on the Straža ski slope.
Swimmers at the Blue Lagoon
Tips:
- Stay near the city centre, close to the lake, especially if you don’t have a car.
- You can get a shuttle from Ljubljana airport to Bled for 13€ pp. Do check with your hotel if they offer any transfers.
- Cost of Pletna boat tour is 14€ pp.
Island Church and Clock Tower ticket is 6€ pp.
Castle ticket is 10€ pp.
Taxi for Vintgar Gorge costs around 4€ pp or 15€ flat.
Entry fee for Vintgar Gorge 4€ pp. - Car rental – Avis
Address – TPC Bled/Shopping Center Bled, 4260, Slovenia Ljubljanska 4
Phone # 4 5780320
Note that Hertz have an office in Ljubljana not Bled, but they offer car pick up and drop off. - Taxi
Taxi sms +386 (0)70 999 699
Mirja Orel +386 (0)41 710 747
Next time you are thinking of an idyllic weekend getaway, think of Bled. You will not be disappointed! Read more posts on Slovenia HERE.
I would love to know what you think of this post. Leave comments below to share your thoughts.
Cheers,
Ameeta xx
