Lake Bled

Famous Lake in the Mountains of Slovenia

Lake Bled is one of the absolute attractions of Slovenia. Even in bad weather, it's like a postcard. The lake is 2,120 m long and 1,380 m wide, it has a maximum depth of 30.6 m. Lake Bled is surrounded by hills and the Julian Alps.

The island is world famous. The moment you see it, you'll understand why. Lake Bled is a strikingly beautiful emerald green lake. Next to the lake you will find Bled Castle at 130 meters altitude. In addition, the lake is surrounded by mighty mountains.

These are the best tips for your visit. With, for example, attractions, excursions and more. So you can get the most out of your trip. These are the best highlights of Bled.

Bled Castle

Bled Castle at Lake Bled in Slovenia. ©Corno van den Berg

Bled Castle is the oldest castle in Slovenia. You can relatively easily walk up the hill yourself and enjoy the view. The castle is always beautiful, like in the spring when the flowers bloom. But especially in the fall when the leaves of the trees are turning.

From the top you have a nice view over the lake. Especially in the early morning. But also when the sun goes down, because then the light falls over the surrounding mountains. You have to be lucky, it is also often cloudy.

The Island with the Church

The island and the church in autumn. ©Corno van den Berg

In Lake Bled is a small island with the Church of the Assumption of Mary, or Cerkev Marijinega vnebovzetja in Slovenian. This dates from the 9th century. The interior includes frescoes and a golden altar. You can also make a wish here at the Wishing Clock. The island is small and very popular, so plan your visit well.

Please note that you are not allowed on the island with swimwear. And therefore not allowed to visit the church. So also take other covering clothing with you to avoid hassle.

Hiking around Lake Bled

A woman and her dog hiking at Lake Bled. ©Corno van den Berg

You can walk around the lake via a hiking trail, which will take you just over an hour (with photo stops). It is the best way to see the island and the mountains in countless ways. But you can also easily visit the famous castle on the mountain.

If you walk around here early in the morning, you will regularly see mist sliding over the water. This is especially nice for photos and videos. It is the best time to rent a boat.

Boat Trip on Lake Bled

A boat tour on the lake is the most popular activity in Bled. You can also visit the island in the lake by boat. Which is special, because this can only be done with human power. Motor boats are prohibited on the lake. So you can explore the lake at your leisure with a traditional boat. It also provides good photo opportunities.

One of the famous boats on Lake Bled. ©Corno van den Berg

Rent a Boat or SUP Yourself

You can also rent a rowing boat or a Stand Up Paddle (SUP). So that you can go out and create your own program. This is useful if you want to take your time. Or just want to go back and forth quickly to the island, for example.

Hike to Mala Osojnica for the Best View

Mala Osojnica is a famous place for photographers. From this point you have a wonderful view over the lake, the island and the mountains beyond. It is a short walk, although the climb is a bit steep. The reward is a wonderful view over Lake Bled.

The walk starts on the west side of the lake. Near a bench you'll see a small sign with Mala Osojnica. You hike through the forest until you see a clearing. You will recognise the view from the pictures you can find on the internet of Lake Bled.

It is special in the early morning. You can often see fog over the lake, but it is beautiful even without fog. There is another reason to go early; you avoid many tourists.

Vintgar Gorge

The Vintgar Gorge is close to Lake Bled.

The Vintgar Gorge is where the Radovna River flows between the steep slopes over a length of 1.6 km. Wooden footpaths have been laid through the steep gorge with clear water. It is well worth a visit. The Vintgar Gorge is located north of Bled.

Pokljuška Soteska

Pokljuška soteska (also called Ribščice Gorge) is a 1.5 kilometer long gorge located northwest of Lake Bled. This is also a wonderful hiking area, where you walk between the rocks. With varying views as a result.

Best Time for Lake Bled

There is no best time for Lake Bled. Even in winter it is beautiful, with snow on the surrounding mountains. In the spring the trees bud, while in the summer everything is green. In fall most leaves turn yellow and brown. This gives everything a completely different dimension.

What is special is that the lake is full of fish, including pike, zander and remarkably large carp. At one of the boathouses you will find information about the various types of fish. Outside the high season you can see fishermen who hunt the predatory fish with their rods.

Avoid the Many Tourists

In summer it can get very hot and crowded. Especially on weekends when many day trippers visit the lake. Try to avoid the weekends and school holidays too. If this is not possible, go early in the day. Or when the sun goes down, you'll see the magic of Lake Bled.

Autumn is a period that is often forgotten. Then it is remarkably quiet with people and you can enjoy the beauty of Lake Bled.