Lake Bled is one of the most beautiful places in the world. It's located in the Julian Alps region of northern Slovenia, surrounded by snowy mountain peaks near the Austrian border.
We're amazed by its beauty and eager to share our tips for visiting with you.
<h3>When to visit</h3>
Lake Bled is stunning throughout the year, though it gets busiest in summer. During July and August, the number of visitors can become so large that boats may not be available and the pathways around the lake can get very crowded.
That's why we recommend visiting in April, May, September, or October for a quieter experience without the crowds.
<h3>How to get there</h3>
Getting to Lake Bled is easy. You can fly into Ljubljana airport and rent a car (driving in Slovenia is straightforward), or take a taxi for around EUR50. Another option is to fly into Klagenfurt in Austria and drive about one hour to reach the lake.
<h3>Things to do at Lake Bled</h3>
There's plenty to do in Lake Bled, and you could spend days exploring the hiking trails in the nearby National Park (which includes Mount Triglav, Slovenia's highest peak). Here are some of our favorite highlights.
<b>1. Walk the full loop around Lake Bled</b>
Walking the entire loop around Lake Bled is our top recommendation if you have limited time. The full loop is only 6km and takes about 1.5 hours. The scenery is so stunning that you might want to budget an extra 1.5 hours for taking photos!
<b>2. Hike to Ojstrica viewpoint</b>
The most famous viewpoint overlooking the lake is Ojstrica, accessed via a trail from the lower end of the lake. The trail can be a bit challenging in spots, but the views are absolutely worth it. Just take a look!
<b>3. Visit Bled castle</b>
Bled Castle is perched high on a cliff and has stood since the 11th century! This remarkable historic site is a must-visit, although reaching it requires a bit of walking and isn't suitable for those with mobility challenges due to numerous steps. Once there, you can explore a castle museum, and a charming chapel, and enjoy breathtaking views of the lake. The entry fee is about $18. Open from 8 AM–8 PM.
<b>4. Enjoy a wellness treatment</b>
Another great thing about Bled is that it's known as a spa town, offering plenty of options for massages and treatments. You can enjoy a massage at Ziva Wellness Centre right on the lakeshore and indulge in their fantastic pool and spas. It's a heavenly way to spend a few hours. For about 21$ per person, you get access to pools and sauna for 3 hours. Parking may cost about 5€.
<h3>How long is needed at Lake Bled & where to stay</h3>
The amount of time you should spend at Lake Bled depends on what you want to do. Many people visit as a day trip from Ljubljana, but that only allows for a few activities from the list above.
To fully experience everything on the list and explore the nearby National Park with its great hiking trails, plan for at least 2 full days in Bled. If you want to delve deeper into the area, including the park's hikes, consider staying 3-4 nights in Bled as a central base.
As for accommodation, there are several options in Bled. You can stay right by the lake at Adora Luxury Hotel. Other choices include Vila Bled (although it's closed during the off-season), Rikli Balance Hotel (known for its excellent spa), and Grand Hotel Toplice, which boasts a prime lakeside location.
Lake Bled sounds enchanting! It seems like a beautiful spot to experience and enjoy. Thanks for exploring all the wonderful details about it with us! Stay safe and happy travels to you!
