Wondering what to do and see in Slovenia’s natural landmarks? No worries, I got you covered with these handpicked Lake Bled activities to kickstart your adventure!
Nestled in the Slovenian Alps, Lake Bled is a stunning natural paradise that offers visitors breathtaking views and plenty of attractions to keep one busy. Featured activities in Lake Bled include a visit to the iconic Bled Castle, which sits atop a cliff overlooking the lake.
There are also several opportunities for outdoor recreation like hiking, swimming, fishing, and biking. It’s also a great place for water sports such as kayaking, rafting, sailing, and paddleboarding.
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Things to do in Lake Bled: Activities, Lake Bled Viewpoints, Hikes, and beyond
Home to majestic mountains, lush greenery, and a beautiful lake surrounded by a picturesque old town, Lake Bled is the perfect destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
From discovering the history of Bled Island to enjoying a leisurely boat ride across the lake, there is something for everyone to enjoy at one of the most beautiful lakes in Slovenia.
In this guide, I will share the best things to do in Lake Bled, where to stay, and of course how to get there!
Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Lake Bled has it all.
1. Bike around Lake Bled
To check off all the Lake Bled attractions, you must hop on a bike, and enjoy the beautiful views. Biking is a great way to experience the beauty of Lake Bled and its surrounding areas.
The trails around the lake offer stunning views of the Julian Alps, and there are many opportunities for leisurely rides or more challenging excursions.
Bikers can also take a ride up to the castle for stunning panoramic views. There are a few bike rental companies located in a town that offer quality bikes and helmets for rent at an affordable rate.
I recommend this e-bike rental agency for renting a bike, for a tour in and around Lake Bled town.
2. Hike around Lake Bled
One of the best ways to experience Lake Bled is by hiking the surrounding area. There are numerous trails and paths that lead to some breathtaking views of the lake, as well as its islands and castle.
The most popular trail is the main path around the lake, which takes about two hours to complete.
This loop offers beautiful views of the lake and its surrounding mountains. It is called the Lake Bled Loop Trail.
Other trails include Vintgar Gorge near the Triglav National Park, which takes hikers to a series of boardwalks that lead through the gorge and past various waterfalls.
The hiking trails in the area are also great for wildlife spotting including fish. You may spot deer, marmots, and other animals along the trails.
There is also an abundance of birds that call Lake Bled home. With its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife, it’s no wonder Lake Bled is such a popular destination for nature lovers.
Take some time to explore the many trails and paths that lead to breathtaking views and an unforgettable experience.
Another way to take in the beauty of Lake Bled is by going for a romantic walk around its shores. You can start off at Bled Castle and meander along the lake’s edge, taking in the tranquil atmosphere and incredible views.
As you continue your stroll, you’ll pass charming buildings that line the waterfront. This is a great way to relax and appreciate the beauty of Lake Bled without a strenuous hike!
3. Ojstrica viewpoint Bled
Situated on the slopes of Osojnica Hill, Ojstrica viewpoint is a popular destination for visitors to Lake Bled. The panoramic view from this spot offers an amazing view of the lake and its island with the castle in the background.
It will take about 40 minutes to complete the hike. This picturesque location has become one of the most photographed places in Slovenia, and it’s easy to see why.
Apart from the spectacular view, the Ojstrica viewpoint also offers some great opportunities for hiking and exploring nature. The trails here are relatively easy, making them ideal for a leisurely stroll or an invigorating hike through the woods.
You can also spot various wildlife while taking in the stunning views of Lake Bled.
4. Mala Osojnica viewpoint Bled
Mala Osojnica is a stunning viewpoint located in the hills above Lake Bled in Slovenia. This beautiful spot offers incredible views of the lake, with its picturesque island and castle, as well as the surrounding mountains.
It’s especially popular during sunrise or sunset when visitors can take advantage of the warm glow that bathes the lake and its surrounding scenery.
The path to Mala Osojnica is an easy one, as you can continue uphill from the Ojstrica viewpoint. It will take about a 15-minute hike from there.
Along the route, you’ll be able to take in views of Lake Bled, as well as some of the local flora and fauna.
Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with an unforgettable view that will stay with you for a lifetime.
Mala Osojnica is one of the must-see spots in Bled and should definitely be included on any Slovenia itinerary. Whether it’s a romantic sunset or an awe-inspiring sunrise, you won’t be disappointed by the views of Lake Bled from Mala Osojnica.
5. Visit Bled island
Bled Island, located in the middle of Lake Bled, is one of the most popular attractions in Slovenia. You can take a traditional Pletna boat across the lake to reach this picturesque destination.
Once there, they will find several attractions that are not to be missed. The top attraction on Bled Island is the 17th-century Church of the Assumption.
The church features a stunning interior with frescoes and stained glass windows, as well as an impressive bell tower. No wonder this is a popular destination wedding spot in Europe!
6. Enjoy water rafting
Experience the beauty of Lake Bled from a unique perspective with white water rafting! This thrilling adventure is sure to be an unforgettable experience for all ages.
There are two main locations within Lake Bled that offer rafting: the Sava River and the Soca River. You can choose between a relaxing, moderate rafting experience, or a more intense and thrilling ride.
I recommend opting for a guided experience. Typically these tours will last 1.50 to 3 hours, and may also include hotel pick up and drop off if you are staying in Lake Bled.
During the tour, rafters will pass through stunning canyons, rapids, and waterfalls — not to mention some of the most picturesque scenery in all of Slovenia.
Experienced guides can help outfit you with all the necessary safety gear and provide helpful tips as you navigate the river’s rapids.
Here are a few tours to consider:
So, grab your paddle and get ready for an unforgettable ride! White water rafting at Lake Bled is the perfect way to explore the area and make lasting memories that will last a lifetime!
7. Hire a boat or a Pletna and enjoy the lake and the beautiful view
One of the most popular activities in Lake Bled is taking a boat ride around the lake. You can hire a traditional Pletna boat to take them across the lake to reach Bled Island, or from vendors near Bled Castle.
For a more leisurely experience, you can also rent boats and paddle around the lake on your own.
The views from the lake are stunning and you can truly appreciate the beauty of the surrounding mountains, forests, and nature in all its glory. Be sure to get down at the island, visit the church, and then make your way back to the lakeshore.
In addition to sightseeing, boat rides on Lake Bled are also a great way to enjoy activities such as swimming or fishing.
8. Visit Bled Castle
Bled Castle is one of the oldest and most iconic attractions in Slovenia, perched atop a cliff overlooking the breathtaking Lake Bled.
This centuries-old castle, which was built in 1011, offers visitors a unique insight into the history of this region.
The castle was built for defensive purposes. Today it is set up as an exhibition area where you can visit art and several medieval frescoes displays.
You can take a tour of the castle grounds to learn about its history, or explore the nearby Castle Chapel for a more spiritual experience.
From time to time the castle courtyards also hold special exhibitions.
The best way to experience all that Bled Castle has to offer is to go on one of the many guided tours.
During the tour, you will learn about the castle’s history and its role in Slovenia’s past, as well as explore different parts of the grounds and witness stunning views from atop its walls.
9. Try Slovenian cuisine
When in Lake Bled, you have to try Slovenian cuisine. It is a unique blend of traditional recipes and modern influences that reflect the country’s diverse geography and culture.
Characterized by its hearty meats, fresh vegetables, homemade pasta, and delicious desserts, Slovenian food often features local ingredients like mushrooms and berries.
From grilled meats to roasted vegetables to rich soups and stews, there are plenty of tasty dishes to try in Slovenia. Additionally, Slovenian food is typically served with generous portions of cheese, making it a great choice for cheese lovers.
One of the must-try items is the Lake Bled Cream Cake. This is a traditional Slovenian dessert that has been enjoyed for generations. It is a light and fluffy cake made with egg whites, ground almonds, sugar, and cream.
A delicious version of the cake can be found at the Slascicarna, a pastry shop located right by Lake Bled. It’s said to be one of the best places in town for this classic dessert.
Other traditional Slovenian dishes include žlikrofi (potato dumplings), potica (walnut-filled cake), Carniolan sausage, and cottage cheese “štruklji”.
For a truly unique experience, you can also try Žganci, which is a Slovenian version of polenta.
Of course, no meal would be complete without trying some Slovenian wine, which comes in both white and red varieties.
10. Go wine tasting in Lake Bled
For wine lovers, Lake Bled has a lot to offer. Just outside the town lies Vipava Valley, which is home to some of the country’s best wineries.
You can book a guided tour to experience Slovenian wine culture firsthand and sample some delicious local wines.
The tours usually include stops at two or more wineries, where guests will learn about the history of Slovenian winemaking and have the opportunity to taste some of the region’s best wines.
At each stop on the tour, you can sample a variety of different wines, such as whites, reds, rosés, and sparkling varieties.
Most tours also include a light lunch or snack, making it the perfect way to spend an afternoon.
Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or just getting started on your wine-tasting journey, a tour of Vipava Valley is sure to be a great experience.
No visit to Lake Bled would be complete without taking part in a wine-tasting tour!
Tip: Opt for this 2 hour wine tasting tour that provides 7 Slovenian wines to sample!
11. Watch the sunrise over the lake or sunset
One of the most magical experiences in Lake Bled is watching the sunrise or sunset over the lake.
As the sun rises, its reflection glistens off of the water, creating a breathtaking backdrop.
At sunset, you can take in spectacular views that include Bled Island and its church.
I highly recommend the Mala Osojnica viewpoint, as you can get a full view of the lake and its surrounding area from there! Watching the sunrise or sunset in Lake Bled will be an unforgettable moment that you’ll cherish forever.
How to get to Lake Bled in Slovenia?
Lake Bled is located in Slovenia. It is only a 40-minute drive from the capital city of Ljubljana.
Visiting Lake Bled from Ljubljana is the perfect way to go during your Slovenian road trip. The closest airport is Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (LJU), which is located a one-hour drive away from the lake.
From the airport, you can easily rent a car or take a bus to Lake Bled. There are several international buses that go directly to the lake.
Trains are one of the cheapest ways to get to Bled from Ljubljana Central Station to Bled.
The journey only takes about 2 hours and tickets can usually be purchased at the station or online. It costs about $4 to $10 USD.
You can also join a small group tour from Ljubljana such as these ones,
- Tour Lake Bled: From Ljubljana – Day Trip to Lake Bled and Bled Castle
- Lake Bohinj Day trip: From Ljubljana: Lake Bled and Bohinj One Day Trip
- Ljubljana: Slovenia Day Tour to Bled, Postojna Cave, and Predjama
Typically day tour price varies from $100 to $150 USD per person, and it includes round-trip transportation.
Where to stay in Lake Bled?
Lake Bled is one of the most scenic spots in Slovenia, and as such has plenty of accommodation options for visitors.
Hotels are abundant in Lake Bled, ranging from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses.
Camping is also popular among travelers who wish to experience nature up close. For those looking for a truly unique stay in Lake Bled, there are several hotels that offer views of the lake.
Grand Hotel Toplice
The Grand Hotel Toplice is one such hotel, located right on the shoreline with stunning lakeside balconies and terraces. It also features a restaurant and bar as well as a spa and wellness center.
Hotel Bohinj Eco
This luxurious 4-star hotel is perfect for a weekend away in Bohinjska Bistrica near the Triglav National Park. Due to its location, you can visit both Bohinj Lake and Bled Lake when road-tripping in Slovenia. The hotel offers free parking, and wifi, and as guests, you will have access to the Aquapark – featuring waterslides, and outdoor pools. Etc. Bohinj Eco Hotel is the first ecological hotel in Slovenia, and in the winter it offers Lake Bled activities such as skiing, ice skating on Bohinj Lake, winter hiking, and more.
Garden Village Bled
Garden Village Bled is a gorgeous glamping option near Lake Bled. It has a restaurant on-site with a river stream flowing through it, a beach bar under trees, and pools with a natural massage waterfall. This unique accommodation consists of tree houses, tents, and also apartments. It is one of the great glamping options in Slovenia. There is free parking, breakfast, and wifi offered to guests here.
Pr Klaudiji Guest house
For those who prefer a more casual stay, the Pr Klaudiji Guest house offers a variety of self-catering apartments. It provides an airport shuttle, and there is a bar on-site as well. Breakfast is delivered to your room. And if you wish for a spectacular stay, then book a suite with mountain views.
For those looking for more rustic accommodation, there are multiple camping grounds located around Lake Bled, offering stunning views and easy access to the lake.
What to pack for Lake Bled Slovenia
When packing for a trip to Lake Bled, it’s important to think about the weather and activities you plan on doing. During summer months, when the temperature is at its highest, it’s essential to bring light clothing such as shorts and t-shirts.
If you plan on hiking or spending time outdoors, don’t forget to bring a rain jacket and comfortable walking shoes. In terms of other items, it’s important to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats for protection from the sun.
Additionally, if you plan on taking boat tours or swimming in the lake, don’t forget to bring a swimsuit and towel.
Lastly, be sure to bring a camera or phone to capture all the beauty of Lake Bled.
Here is a quick list of items to bring to Bled for sightseeing and hiking,
- Hiking shoes: Must wear hiking shoes on trails and walks along the shore.
- Lightweight jacket: Perfect for sunrise and sunset hikes, when the temperature drops slightly
- Daypack: To carry all the day’s essentials (or hiking gear)
- Swimwear: For those wanting to swim, or enjoy the pool at the resort/hotel
- Sun protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
- Camera: For capturing those iconic shots of Lake Bled and nearby.
- Travel Insurance: Don’t forget to buy travel insurance for your trip
By keeping these tips in mind and packing accordingly, you’re sure to have an amazing experience at Lake Bled!
When is the best time to visit Lake Bled Slovenia
Lake Bled is an all-year destination. And the best time to visit the area depends on what kind of experience you are after.
For those looking for beautiful blooms and mild temperatures, the best time to visit is April through June or September through October.
Summer months are also a great choice for those seeking outdoor activities like hiking and biking, as well as swimming and relaxing at the lake.
July and August tend to be the busiest months in terms of tourism, so we recommend booking hotels and tours ahead of time to avoid disappointment!
If you are after winter activities in Lake Bled, you will love the skiing and snowboarding opportunities in and around the town.
Read here all about things to do in Slovenia, besides Lake Bled.
Lake Bled Viewpoints and Activities | Conclusion
Lake Bled in Slovenia is one of Europe’s most beautiful destinations, boasting stunning scenery, lush forests, and plenty of activities to suit every type of traveler.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an action-packed adventure, Lake Bled is the perfect place to visit.
We hope you found this post on Lake Bled activities useful, and are ready to plan your getaway!
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