Lake Bled: A Slice of Paradise… and Cake
Welcome to the iconic Lake Bled, a breathtaking oasis where azure waters and majestic mountains come together to create a scene straight out of a fairytale. As you approach this natural wonder, consider making a brief detour to the Vintgar Gorge hike. This scenic trail takes you on a captivating journey through where the river has cut through the rock, and the steep cliff sides are overgrown with lush greenery. The hike takes you first on wooden walkways along the rock face that crisscross over the river, and then there are two different optional routes to take back to the start.
We chose to walk through open fields with grazing livestock in the distance, which was a stark change from the first half. This hike should take you over an hour no matter your route, so only stop by if you have the time to spare. It all depends on how many days you think you need in Lake Bled, and how much time your itinerary has to spare. It is a beautiful and rewarding experience for nature enthusiasts, however, we are partial to the next hike we will suggest.
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Things to do in Lake Bled
There is so much to do in Lake Bled, but upon reaching this destination, the first thing you'll want to do is hike up to Mala Osojnica. This short but strenuous 1- 1.5 hour round-trip hike rewards you with what we believe is the best view of Lake Bled. As you stand atop the viewpoint, with the glistening lake below, Bled Island is perfectly centred and you can see the Julian Alps stretching out in the distance. This postcard-worthy image is probably one of the main reasons Lake Bled is so popular. Perfect as this image is, our next viewpoint comes with food.
Bled Castle
Next, make the trek up to visit the Bled Castle, where at the top you have the opportunity to enjoy a unique dining experience with a view. Here we savoured a delicious schnitzel and a couple of glasses of Slovenian wine in their restaurant. It was made all the more enjoyable as we could sit and admire the lake from a different vantage point, still wondering how the Lake Bled water could be so blue.
Boating
Now that you have seen Lake Bled from above, you might be wondering what is that thing in the middle of Lake Bled? Good news, because it is now time to row across the serene waters and see Bled Island for yourself. You can be taken across on a pletna boat with a group, however, we would suggest you rent a boat from the water’s edge and row yourself instead. The views seem better when you earn them, and the photo opportunities in the rowboat with the island behind you are abundant.
As you explore Bled Island, don't miss the opportunity to ring the wishing bell at the Assumption of Mary Church. Legend has it that ringing the bell grants you a wish, adding a touch of magic to your visit. There is also a cafe here to enjoy a snack and a beverage before making your return rowing journey. We found that one of the local Union Radlers struck the perfect refreshing balance between citrus and beer. After your return journey, take the time to stroll along the lake's picturesque shores, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and the stunning reflections of the mountains on the water.
Bled Cream Cake
And what visit to Lake Bled would be complete without indulging in the heavenly delight of Bled Cream Cake, or Kremna Rezina? This iconic Slovenian dessert is a symphony of creamy custard and flaky pastry layers, topped with a dusting of powdered sugar. Invented at Hotel Park, this delectable treat has satisfied sweet cravings since the 1950s.
The best version, in our opinion—and that of many others—can be found at Hotel Park itself, which has a sprawling patio with a view of the lake to accommodate the many tourists searching out this delicious treat. As you savor each luscious bite, you'll understand why the locals and visitors alike are so enamored with this irresistible dessert. Good luck keeping your cake away from the birds though, they seem to be as addicted to this creamy confection as we were!
For some more substantial food, the best restaurant we ate at in Lake Bled was Restavracija Central Bled. Here you will sacrifice the lakeside view, which we were happy to do in exchange for the tasty meal. We enjoyed some of the best risotto we have ever tasted in this spot.
Conclusion
Lake Bled is more than just a stunning natural wonder—it's a destination that offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and culinary delights. From the tranquil waters ideal for rowing to the captivating hikes that offer panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains, Lake Bled promises unforgettable experiences at every turn. So, if you're seeking a magical escape that combines natural beauty, outdoor activities, and gastronomic pleasures, Lake Bled is the perfect destination to add to your bucket list. Don't miss the opportunity to discover why this Slovenian gem is considered one of Europe's most captivating treasures.
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