Experiences
Lake Bled: how to see the lake, the island and the castle in Slovenia
A church on a tiny island, a castle on a cliff and cream cake by the water. How to plan your trip to Lake Bled, and where to stay on the shore.
The boatman stands at the back of the flat wooden boat and rows with one long oar. Ahead is a small island with a white church, and above the lake a castle sits on the edge of a cliff. The crossing takes a quarter of an hour, which is long enough for your shoulders to drop.
Lake Bled is in the Julian Alps, a short drive from Ljubljana. The lake is small enough to walk around in a couple of hours, but there is plenty to do nearby. Here is the best of it, and the hotels that give you the view.
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The best things to do at Lake Bled
Book the experience: See tours and activities in Bled
The island and its church
The traditional boats are called pletna, and they leave from several points around the lake. On the island you climb the steps to the church, where tradition says you should ring the wishing bell. You can also hire a rowing boat and row yourself.
Bled Castle
The castle stands on a cliff above the lake and is one of the oldest in Slovenia. From here you see the whole lake and the mountains behind. Go early or late for the best light.
Vintgar Gorge
Just outside Bled, a boardwalk follows a narrow gorge with green water and small waterfalls. The walk is easy and suits most people. Tickets often need booking in advance in high season.
Lake Bohinj
Bohinj is half an hour away and bigger, quieter and wilder than Bled. Take the cable car up to Vogel for views over the lake and the mountains of Triglav National Park.
The cream cake
Bled is famous for kremšnita, a tall slice of vanilla custard and cream between layers of puff pastry. Eat it on a terrace overlooking the lake.
Where to stay at Lake Bled
Stay by the water. You get a morning walk around the lake before the day trippers arrive, and evening light on the castle.
Grand Hotel Toplice
Grand Hotel Toplice sits right on the lake, facing the island and the castle. It is one of the classic hotels in Bled and has a restaurant and a bar.
Book your stay: See rooms at Grand Hotel Toplice
Hotel Park
On the lake near the centre.
Hotel Park
Hotel Park is on the lake close to the centre, with a spa and an indoor pool. It is known for the cream cake, which, the story goes, was first made here.
Book your stay: See rooms at Hotel Park
Hotel Vila Bled
In parkland on the water.
Hotel Vila Bled
Vila Bled was once Tito's summer residence and stands in large grounds on the lake. Calm and elegant, with its own jetty.
Book your stay: See rooms at Hotel Vila Bled
Rikli Balance Hotel
A modern hotel on the lake.
Rikli Balance Hotel
Rikli Balance is on the lake in the centre, with an indoor pool and a modern feel. Practical, and a good choice for families.
Book your stay: See rooms at Rikli Balance Hotel
When is the best time to visit Lake Bled?
May, June and September: mild weather, green shores and fewer people than July and August.
July and August: warm enough to swim in the lake, but busy. Head out early.
December: a Christmas market by the lake, and often snow on the surrounding mountains.
Lake Bled FAQ
Where is Lake Bled?
Lake Bled is in north-west Slovenia, a short drive from Ljubljana.
How do I get to the island?
By pletna, the traditional wooden boats, or in a hired rowing boat.
Can you swim in Lake Bled?
Yes, in summer there are bathing spots around the lake.
How long do I need?
Two nights gives time for the lake, the castle, Vintgar Gorge and a trip to Bohinj.
Where should I stay?
On the lake, ideally facing the island. Then you have the lake to yourself early and late.