Chances are you’ve seen the famous pictures of the lake, however, there are a number of other great things to do in Bled, the cute little island with a church surrounded by a stunning mountain range.
This little town is indeed popular year-round, attracting visitors with its stunning scenery and abundance of outdoor activities. From diving and skiing to hiking and horseback riding, Bled offers adventures for every season and interest. Here are some of the best things you shouldn’t miss during your visit:
- Diving in Lake Bled: Explore the underwater world of Lake Bled through diving. Discover hidden caves, colorful fish, and submerged rock formations beneath the lake’s pristine surface.
- Skiing in the Julian Alps: Hit the slopes in the nearby Julian Alps during the winter months. With several ski resorts within easy reach of Bled, you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports against the backdrop of stunning mountain scenery.
- Hiking in Triglav National Park: Lace up your hiking boots and venture into Triglav National Park, Slovenia’s only national park. Embark on scenic hikes through alpine meadows, dense forests, and rugged peaks, with trails suitable for all skill levels.
- Horseback Riding: Explore the picturesque countryside surrounding Bled on horseback. Join a guided horseback riding tour and meander through rolling hills, verdant forests, and charming villages, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the region.
- Cycling Adventures: Rent a bike and explore the scenic cycling routes around Bled. Pedal along quiet country roads, cycle paths, and mountain trails, discovering hidden gems and breathtaking viewpoints along the way.
- Paragliding: Take to the skies and experience the thrill of paragliding over Lake Bled and its surrounding landscapes. Enjoy panoramic views as you glide through the air, feeling the rush of adrenaline and freedom.
- Canyoning and Rafting: Embark on an adrenaline-pumping adventure with canyoning and rafting excursions in the nearby rivers and gorges. Navigate through narrow canyons, plunge into crystal-clear pools, and conquer exhilarating rapids under the guidance of experienced guides.
- Photography Tours: Capture the beauty of Bled and its surroundings through photography tours. Join local photographers who will lead you to the best vantage points and provide tips for capturing stunning images of the landscape, architecture, and natural wonders.
Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-fueled thrills or serene outdoor experiences, Bled offers a wealth of adventures waiting to be discovered. With its stunning landscapes and diverse array of activities, it’s truly one of the most beautiful and unforgettable destinations you’ll ever visit.
# 1. Visit the church in the middle of the lake
A highlight of any visit to Bled is a trip to Bled Island to explore the picturesque Church of the Assumption. Hop aboard a traditional Pletna boat and glide across the serene waters of Lake Bled to reach the island. Once there, climb the 99 stone steps to the church, where you can admire its charming architecture, ring the wishing bell for good luck, and soak in the panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
# 2. Explore the medieval castle
Perched atop a rocky cliff overlooking Lake Bled, Bled Castle is a captivating medieval fortress with a rich history dating back over a thousand years. Wander through the castle’s ancient walls and towers, explore its museum showcasing artifacts and exhibits on local history and culture, and enjoy panoramic views of Lake Bled and the surrounding Julian Alps from its vantage points. Don’t miss the chance to witness traditional medieval events and performances held within the castle grounds, offering a glimpse into the region’s fascinating past.
# 3. Get a birds-eye view of the scenery
For a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of the stunning scenery surrounding Lake Bled, hike to Ojstrica viewpoint. Trek through picturesque forests and rocky terrain until you reach the summit, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic vistas of the emerald-green lake, Bled Island with its charming church, and the majestic peaks of the Julian Alps stretching into the distance. It’s the perfect spot to capture unforgettable photographs and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this enchanting destination.
# 4. Take a hike through the Vintgar Gorge
Lose yourself in the natural beauty of Vintgar Gorge, a breathtaking ravine carved by the Radovna River. Wander along wooden boardwalks suspended above the rushing waters, passing through narrow passages and beneath towering cliffs adorned with lush greenery. Marvel at the gorge’s stunning waterfalls, crystal-clear pools, and moss-covered rock formations as you immerse yourself in this picturesque natural wonderland. Be sure to have your camera ready to capture the awe-inspiring beauty of one of Slovenia’s most iconic natural attractions.
# 5. Have some traditional cream cake
Treat yourself to a slice of Bled’s famous cream cake, a delectable dessert that has become synonymous with the town. Head to one of the local cafes or pastry shops and savor this iconic sweet treat, consisting of layers of flaky pastry, rich vanilla custard, and whipped cream, topped with a dusting of powdered sugar. Whether enjoyed as a midday snack or a post-hike indulgence, the Bled cream cake is sure to delight your taste buds and provide the perfect sweet ending to your visit to this enchanting destination.
# 7. Spend your time at a Farm Stay
Immerse yourself in the idyllic countryside surroundings of Bled by opting for a farm stay experience. Choose from a variety of charming farm accommodations nestled in the scenic landscapes surrounding the town. Wake up to the soothing sounds of nature, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and enjoy authentic Slovenian hospitality as you interact with your hosts and learn about traditional farm life. Take part in farm activities such as milking cows, gathering fresh eggs, or harvesting seasonal produce, and indulge in delicious homemade meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or an opportunity to connect with nature and local culture, a farm stay in Bled promises a memorable and enriching experience.
# 8. Don’t be afraid of the wintertime
Don’t let the colder months deter you from exploring the beauty of Bled. Winter in Bled offers a magical atmosphere with snow-covered landscapes and fewer crowds, making it an ideal time for outdoor adventures. Bundle up and embark on scenic winter hikes around Lake Bled or in the nearby Triglav National Park, where you can marvel at frozen waterfalls and pristine snowy vistas. For thrill-seekers, enjoy adrenaline-pumping activities such as skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing in the surrounding Julian Alps. After a day of outdoor fun, cozy up by a roaring fireplace with a warm drink or relax in a thermal spa to soothe tired muscles. Embracing wintertime in Bled allows you to experience the town’s enchanting beauty in a whole new light and create unforgettable memories amidst the snowy wonderland.
# 9. Ride the Bohinj Steam Railway
Experience a journey back in time aboard the charming Bohinj Steam Railway. Departing from the nearby town of Bohinjska Bistrica, this historic narrow-gauge railway takes you on a picturesque route through the stunning Alpine scenery of the Sava Valley. Sit back and relax as you chug along the tracks, passing through quaint villages, verdant forests, and rolling hillsides blanketed in snow during the winter months. Admire the vintage steam locomotive and vintage carriages, which evoke the nostalgia of a bygone era of rail travel. Whether you’re a railway enthusiast or simply seeking a unique way to explore the Slovenian countryside, a ride on the Bohinj Steam Railway promises an unforgettable and scenic adventure.
# 10. Go deep into the subterranean Postojna Caves
Venture beyond Bled and embark on an unforgettable underground excursion to the renowned Postojna Caves. Located just a short drive from Bled, these expansive limestone caves are among the largest and most captivating cave systems in the world. Join a guided tour and descend into the depths of the earth, marveling at the mesmerizing formations of stalactites, stalagmites, and other geological wonders illuminated by dazzling lights. Traverse through vast chambers and winding passages, including the majestic Concert Hall, where concerts and other events are held. Don’t miss the opportunity to encounter the unique olm, or “human fish,” a rare amphibian species that inhabits the cave’s underground rivers. A visit to the Postojna Caves promises a mesmerizing journey into the mysterious realm beneath the surface, where nature’s beauty knows no bounds.