Things To Do Near Lake Bled, Slovenia
Lake Bled is a beautiful oasis in Slovenia, famous for its piercing blue water and stunning mountain-filled backdrop. If you’re looking for a scenic escape for your next peaceful weekend retreat, there couldn’t be a better place to go.
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While I think you could spend all day lakeside with a book, if you want to keep yourself busy with other things to do in Lake Bled, check out the activities below!
1. Ride the Pletna Boats to Bled Island
One of the most iconic activities to partake in while staying in Bled are the pletna boats. These locally made vessels are traditional to the area, with origins dating back to the 1500s. To enjoy a ride in a pletna, simply head down to the docks on the town-side of the lake and walk up to one of the rowers. There will likely be a line forming to ride the boat if it’s good weather.
From here, the boats will take you out to Bled Island where you will stay for about an hour before making the return trip.
2. Walk Along the Vintgar Gorge
A short drive from Bled (10 minutes or less depending on where you’re staying) is Vintgar Gorge. This scenic natural gorge is known for its bright blue running water, and has an established man-made walking path to enjoy it from. Hikers of any skill level are able to participate in the walk.
Please note that entrance to the gorge is staggered due to capacity limits, so it’s best to book your entry tickets in advance.
3. Paddle-board on the Lake
A tranquil activity that still gets you out & active on the water, paddle-boarding is another popular activity to enjoy while visiting Lake Bled. If interested, you’re able to sign up for a paddle-board lesson & tour around the lake with a guide. However, there are also a few places to simply rent out a paddle-board to use on your own for a couple of hours.
4. River Raft Along the Sava River
For a bit of adventure that is good for the whole family, you could check out river rafting along the nearby Sava River. This excursion typically includes transportation from your lodging to the start-point, from which you will cruise your way along the water back to the Bled area!
5. Tour Bled Castle
Bled Castle is another emblem of the town, sitting high on top of a cliff above the water. To mix up your activities for the day, you could make your way up there to enjoy the view of the lake from above. You can also dine at the castle or tour its grounds if desired.
6. Wine Tasting at Hotel Triglav
For a fun evening activity, you can sign up for a wine tasting event at the classic Hotel Triglav Bled. This activity allows you the opportunity to taste locally made wine, learn about classic Slovenian pairings, and take in pretty views of the lake from the hotel’s prime location.
7. Day Trip to Soča Valley
Something you cannot miss while you’re in the area (if you’re there for more than a day of course) is a trip out to Bovec and the Soča Valley region. The mountains are breathtaking, and there are ample excursions in the area so you’re sure to find something that works for everyone. To lear more about things to do in the Soča Valley, read here.
8. Swim at the Lakeside Waterpark
To enjoy a day by the water, you can go to one of Lake Bled’s designated dock areas to free swim, or you can check out their waterpark area with slides, obstacle courses, and food. Around the lake there are also smaller clearings that you can bring your own towels to and layout by the shoreline if preferred.
9. Walk Around Lake Bled
If you’re looking for a bit of exercise, try doing the loop trail around Lake Bled! This walking path is suitable for beginners, relatively flat, and only takes about an hour’s time to complete in full. If you’re interested in a more rigorous trail than that, you can also check out the nearby hiking trails, though those you may need to drive to.
10. Ride the Dotto Train Around Town
If you’re not in the mood to walk, but still interested in exploring the whole lake, you can also catch a ride on one of the Dotto Tourist Trains! This little train of white carriages will drive you around Bled in open air cabins so that you can see the whole of Bled from the comfort of your seat. Just grab a gelato, buy a ticket, and sit back and enjoy the views.
11. Zip-Line Around Bled
Last but not least, you can sign yourself up for a zip-lining excursion around Bled and the Sava River! Here you will be provided all of the necessary safety equipment, and be guided along the zip-line route around Bled. Another great family activity for those vacationing in Bled!
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About the Author: Hi, I’m Jill! I am a biomedical & mechanical engineer who loves traveling during my free time. My hope is to help make it easier for others to plan their dream trips by providing firsthand experience from the places I’ve been! Read More.
