Lake Bled
Lake Bled, one of Slovenia’s most breathtaking destinations, is known for its emerald-green waters, picturesque island, and stunning alpine backdrop. At the heart of the lake, Bled Island is home to the Church of the Assumption, a charming baroque structure that can be reached by a traditional pletna boat. Visitors can ring the church bell, a centuries-old tradition said to bring good luck. Overlooking the lake from a steep cliff, Bled Castle is one of the oldest fortresses in Slovenia, offering panoramic views, a museum showcasing medieval history, and a charming wine cellar where visitors can bottle their own wine. A scenic walk or cycle around the lake provides ever-changing views, with opportunities to stop at peaceful spots along the shore.
Beyond its striking scenery, Lake Bled has a deep cultural and historical significance. The region has been a retreat for royalty and aristocrats for centuries, and traces of its past can still be seen in its grand villas and spa resorts. The lake is also a hub for outdoor activities, attracting visitors for hiking, rowing, and swimming in the summer, while winter transforms the area into a fairy-tale setting with opportunities for ice skating and skiing in nearby resorts. The surrounding Julian Alps and Triglav National Park offer endless trails for nature lovers, with Vintgar Gorge providing one of the most stunning walks, featuring wooden bridges suspended above rushing turquoise waters. Traditional Slovenian music and folklore performances often take place in Bled, giving visitors a glimpse into the region’s heritage.
No trip to Lake Bled is complete without trying kremna rezina, the famous Bled cream cake. This decadent dessert, made of layers of vanilla custard, whipped cream, and crisp puff pastry, has been a local speciality for over 60 years. The lakeside cafés and restaurants serve fresh trout from the waters of Bled, alongside hearty Slovenian dishes such as žganci (buckwheat spoonbread) and štruklji (rolled dumplings with various fillings). With farm-to-table dining experiences and excellent Slovenian wines, the culinary scene reflects the region’s commitment to quality and tradition. Whether enjoying a lakeside meal, exploring historic sites, or taking in the natural beauty, Lake Bled offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of Slovenia’s stunning landscape.
Highlights of Vienna
Our Favourite Hotels in Lake Bled
Grand Hotel Toplice
Our Favourite
This grand traditional Art Deco hotel belongs to the group ‘Small Luxury Hotels of the World’ and truly encompasses the concept of old world luxury. It is situated on the shores of Bled Lake and has a panoramic view of the lake’s island, the ancient castles and the breathtaking Alps. The Grand Hotel Toplice has thermal pools and a Wellness Centre with sun loungers arranged around the swimming pool. All rooms have a private balcony, some have lake views whilst all are air-conditioned and have free WiFi. The breakfast buffet is extensive and staff are excellent.
It will be difficult to resist the temptation to try the famous Bled Cream Cake and coffee whilst taking in the amazing views of the Lake from the stunning Conservatory where afternoon tea is served each day.
Hotel Park
Our Favourite
We’ve Stayed Here
Overlooking Lake Bled and the Julian Alps, the Park Hotel has a Wellness Centre with a large indoor pool, a gym and massage rooms. Each room has a private balcony with a view of the lake or of a park on which to relax and appreciate the beauty of nature. Later in the day, the tranquillity of the lake can be truly appreciated from your balcony.
Enjoy a drink in the aperitif bar, to an accompaniment of piano music, then head for the Rikli Pizzeria next door which serves a wide selection of pasta, pizza and salads. For those who deserve it – coffee and cakes are available too!
Rikli Balance
The Rikli Balance Hotel (formerly Hotel Golf) is part of the largest hotel chain in Slovenia and is the choice of many clients who return to Bled each year. It has a car park and its proximity to the Lake and to the town of Bled makes it a very appealing place to stay for those who like everything to be on their doorstep.
This is a large modern hotel with 150 rooms and suites and arguably one of the best Wellness Centres in Slovenia, offering facial treatments, saunas, a spa and pool. In addition, the water slide is very popular with children, making this a popular family hotel. Some of the comfortable, spacious rooms have balconies and excellent views of the lake; these rooms book up quickly.
Lake Bled is really one of the undiscovered gems of Europe and for me a must-stay (or at least go to) on a trip to Slovenia. Although smaller than the more famous Italian Lakes, Bled can be walked or cycled around really easily – with the majority of the hotels located at one end. There’s also a small village and plenty of eating options if you don’t want to eat inside a hotel.
You can also get to Ljubljana really easy – which you can do as a day trip if you want to, or alternatively use it as a base to get to the Triglav National Park just to the north – including the ski resort of Kranska Gora or the ski jumping complex at Planica.
CALL US
We would be delighted to talk about your holiday arrangements over the phone. You can contact us between 8am and 10pm every day (outside of office hours may not be immediate).
01442 879787
SEND A MESSAGE
If you wish to send us your requirements by email using the link below, we’ll get back to you. Outside of office hours, we’ll reply to you as soon as we can.
VISIT US
Our office is open 9:30am to 5pm Monday to Saturday (excluding Bank Holidays). If you wish to make an appointment, please either call or send a message, although it’s not compulsory.
