Top 5 things to do in Lake Bled, Slovenia

Hugged by mountains and favoured by the rich and famous, Lake Bled manages to remain a sanctuary for all. Perfect for blissful weeks spent in the Slovenian countryside, and definitely one to recommend for romantic weekends away, it has a charming list of activities. Whether youre interested in planning a spa break or walking holiday, heres five top things to do on any trip to Lake Bled. Indeed, many come for the view, but what will you remember it for?

1. Stay in a hotel with a view

For the extra money you can truly immerse yourself in the stunning landscape from a number of hotels surrounding the lake. All are well-designed so as not to taint the traditional atmosphere, whilst providing exceptional views. If youre lucky, you could even be woken up by bird calls as theres plenty of wildlife is this area, no doubt also enjoying the fresh air!

2. Visit Lake Bled Castle

An absolute must is a trip up the hillside to the picturesque castle, seeing a beautiful white church along the way. The steps en route are quite steep and it takes roughly fifteen minutes to reach the top – as you can see, its got quite the vantage point. Once at the top, you enter the castle via a final set of stairs and come through an archway to a vast open area offering panoramic views of the town. You can spend hours up here enjoying the view, and perhaps dining al fresco at the castles restaurant. If you can tear yourself away from the natural scenes below, they have a winery, museum and also a blacksmith attraction to enjoy.

3. Sample the local Lake Bled cream cake

Normally you wouldnt hear of this before stepping foot in the town but its a delicious treat for any visitor. While many serve the cake, there is only one original and why not opt for the best? Sample this custardy square treat where it was invented at the Hotel Park. In the cafe opposite the hotel you wont lose sight of the lake, but your full attention will be on this sweet patisserie, the result of many years experimentation in the kitchen by Itvan Lukačevič.

4. Take a boat across to the Cathedral

Towards the far side of the last is a small island occupied by Lake Bled Cathedral and bell tower, which youll hear chiming throughout your visit. Its a popular pastime to swim to the island, but you can also catch a lift on a boat or rent a kayak from numerous points along the bank. One option is to go in a larger boat with roughly twenty passengers for a set visit, which last around two hours from setting off to arriving back on the mainland. This is in fact plenty of time to explore the island and take photographs. Sailing across the water is very relaxing as you watch the captain do all the work!

5. Walk around the lake for an evening stroll

Take in the atmosphere of the town as the sun sets and stroll around the lake into the early evening. In the summer and peak season, its still a peaceful and quiet affair, entertaining mainly couples who walk arm in arm. Lit up in the dark, Lake Bled showcases its mirror image in the water and is a fantastic photo opportunity. There are many benches in place to rest your feet en route and the ducks will still be out to play, so take leftover bread from your meal out if you want to make cute new friends!

About a thirty minute transfer from Ljubljana airport, Lake Bled is worth that little bit extra on your journey time. Its a magical place thatll never leave your imagination, so make it your aim to visit as soon as possible.