Things to Do in Bled

Nestled into the foothills of the Julian Alps in northwest Slovenia, glacial Lake Bled is a place of spectacular natural beauty. Subterranean thermal springs keep the lake’s exquisite blue-green waters relatively warm during summer, making it a hot spot for water sports. Bled also makes a perfect base for exploring the Julian Alps.

Built into a rocky precipice in the Julian Alps foothills of northwest Slovenia, Bled Castle (Blejski Grad) sits high above the stunning blue-green Lake Bled. With moats, a drawbridge, ramparts, towers, and terraces with magnificent views of the lake, this 9th-century fortress is everything you would imagine a medieval fairy-tale castle to be.

With its picture-perfect church and ornate steeple peeking out above the treeline and perched on Bled Lake, tiny Bled Island (Bled Island (Blejski Otok) looks like something out of a fairy tale. Local tradition has it that a groom must carry his bride up all 99 steps that lead from the island’s dock to the church to ensure a happy marriage.

The image of the picturesque steepled church on a tiny forested island surrounded by emerald waters is what attracts most visitors to Lake Bled in the first place. Visitors flock to the Church of the Assumption to climb to the top of the belltower and make a wish. Legend has it if you ring the bell three times your wish will come true.

The Vintgar Gorge—created over centuries by the waters of the Radovna River—draws visitors with its emerald green pools, dramatic waterfalls, and picturesque swimming holes. Visit to traverse bridges and wooden boardwalks suspended over the water, and see the Sum waterfall, which cascades into an emerald pool at the head of the gorge.

Located at the confluence of two rivers in northern Slovenia, Tolmin Gorge is one of the gateways to Triglav National Park. Known for its stunning scenery, crystal clear waters, moss-covered canyons, and rocky outcrops, Tolmin Gorge is one of Slovenia’s best natural attractions.

Located close to the center of Bled, Straza Bled hill offers year-round entertainment and panoramic views of Lake Bled, Bled Castle, and the Julian Alps. In winter, you can go skiing, snowboarding, and tubing, while tobogganing, hiking, and an adventure park are available throughout the rest of the year.