Day Trips Bled
Day Trips in Lake Bled, Slovenia
Discover the enchanting beauty of Lake Bled with its pristine waters, picturesque island, and stunning Alpine backdrop. Here’s a guide for your perfect day trips in this magical destination.
**1. Start Your Day at the Church on the Island: Begin your journey by taking a traditional pletna boat ride (approx. €15 per person) to the small island in the lake’s center, home to the Assumption of Mary Church. Climb the 99 steps up the bell tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
**2. Explore Bled Castle: A short walk or a scenic cable car ride (approx. €13 return) will take you to Bled Castle, perched atop a cliff overlooking the town. Wander through its museums, taste traditional Slovenian cuisine in the castle’s restaurant, and enjoy the panoramic views of Lake Bled.
**3. Hike Around the Lake: For those seeking adventure, hiking around Lake Bled is a must! The path offers various difficulty levels, allowing you to choose the best fit for your ability. The complete circuit takes approximately 2-4 hours depending on your pace.
**4. Visit Vintgar Gorge: Just a short drive from Lake Bled (approx. €10 by taxi), you’ll find the breathtaking Vintgar Gorge. Walk along wooden boardwalks above the emerald-green Radovna River and marvel at the towering cliffs and picturesque waterfalls.
**5. Relax on Zaka Lake: After a day filled with adventure, unwind by the peaceful shores of Zaka Lake. This smaller lake is located just north of Bled and offers a more tranquil atmosphere to end your day trip.
**6. Try Slovenian Cuisine: No visit to Lake Bled is complete without sampling traditional Slovenian dishes! Cream cake (Kremšnita) and Bled’s famous ‘Blejska’ sausage are must-tries. For a memorable dining experience, dine at one of the many restaurants overlooking the lake.
Tips:
- Pletna boats have fixed schedules, so plan your day accordingly to make the most of your time.
- The church on the island is often crowded, especially during peak hours. Consider visiting early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the rush.
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and dress according to the weather as the hiking trail can be slippery when wet.
- Be prepared for varying prices depending on the season and popularity of attractions.