It must be one of the most photographed places on a Slovenia tour, and I am sure that the Slovenian tourism office uses it on almost all of its brochures. Seeing it firsthand, I can tell you that it is spectacular! Read on to find out the best things to do on your visit to Lake Bled, Slovenia.
Overview:
- Take a boat trip to Bled Island
- Take a walk along the Northern side of Lake Bled
- Try the famous Bled cream cake
Surrounded by the Julian Alps and located 55 kilometres north of the Slovenian capital, Ljubljana, sits the Alpine town of Lake Bled. The town is the base of many winter sport activities as it receives a fair amount of snow each year. Dennis and I visited at the start of summer and just fell in love with this alpine wonder. I think these photos will show you why!
Things to do in Lake Bled, Slovenia
1. Take a boat ride to Bled Island
One of the most popular things to do when visiting Lake Bled is to take a traditional pletna boat trip out to Bled Island. (If you’re up for even more adventure, you can kayak to the Island.) Bled Island is home to the iconic Pilgrimage Church and Bled Castle. The mediaeval-style castle dates back to the 10th century and was built on the cliffs overlooking the village of Bled and the lake itself. Here, you can take a free tour of the castle and enjoy some Slovenian wine in the castle wine cellar. Don’t forget to take a tour of the Pilgrimage Church and snap some photos while you’re here!
2. Take a walk along the Northern side of Lake Bled
The northern part of the lake has a footpath that links to some spectacular lookouts and flowering gardens. You can also find a variety of cafés, ice cream shops and restaurants, all with amazing vistas over the lake.We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes.
3. Try the famous Bled cream cake
A must-do for anyone visiting Lake Bled is to feast on the famous and fattening Lake Bled Cream Cake (Kremsnita), which was invented about 70 years ago by the chef at the lakeside Park Hotel. The cake is made by mixing in a healthy amount of custard, pastry, powdered sugar, and lots of cream together. The Park Hotel now sells about 5000 serves of this cake a week and trust me when I tell you it is delicious.
All images by Sacha Bunnik
Explore Lake Bled for yourself on a Slovenia tour with Bunnik
If you’ve been inspired to plan a trip to Lake Bled, now is the perfect time to book a small group tour to Slovenia with Bunnik! You can enjoy a trip to Lake Bled and so much more on one of our Europe tours. Browse our website or for more information, contact one of our friendly Travel Specialists online or on 1800 286 645.
Lake Bled Slovenia: FAQs
Can you swim in Lake Bled?
Yes! Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj have many areas that are perfectly fine to swim and sunbathe in during the summer months, with cool to warm temperatures.
Why is Lake Bled so famous?
Lake Bled is such a famous location due to its picturesque island in the middle of the emerald green lake, which holds the fairytale-like Pilgrimage Church and Bled Castle.
Is Lake Bled worth going to?
If you’re looking for a place with intriguing history, stunning architecture and breathtaking natural views, then Lake Bled is the perfect location for you! Here, you can relax and tour the Island at your own place. They also offer plenty of activities for adventure-goers.
How long should I spend in Lake Bled?
We recommend spending at least two days in Lake Bled to see all that it has to offer! This will give you the opportunity to tour the famous Bled Island and see all the highlights of the beautiful Lake Bled, including the Triglav National Park.
