Nestled in the Slovenian Alps, Lake Bled is a picturesque glacial lake surrounded by towering mountains, dense forests and charming towns. The lake is renowned for its crystal-clear emerald-green waters and an enchanting island located at the center, which can be reached by a traditional wooden ‘pletna’ rowboat. While Lake Bled is a popular summer destination, it’s also the perfect place to visit in the cooler months as the leaves start to turn, to soak up the stunning natural landscapes and fresh mountain air. With hiking, swimming, cycling and zip lining just a few of activities the area is known for, Lake Bled is an outdoor-lovers paradise all year round. Keep reading for tips on How to spend an Autumn Weekend in Lake Bled, Slovenia.
Top left: sunset view of Lake Bled / Top right: wooden rowing boat with Lake Bled island in background / Bottom left: Church of the Assumption / Bottom right: Bled Castle.
Getting there
Flying into Ljubljana, the capital city of Slovenia, is the best way to reach Lake Bled. From Ljubljana, you can easily get to Bled by train or bus, with either option costing no more more than €20 one way. Hiring a car is also a good option, and will give you more flexibility during your stay. I found the roads to be very safe and easy to navigate.
Left: Bled Castle. Right / View of Bled Castle from across the lake.
Things to do
Walk around the lake – there are plenty of walks and hikes to choose from in the area, however the 6km loop that takes you right around Lake Bled is arguably the most popular…and for good reason. Not only are you treated to stunning views the whole way round, the path is easy to follow from the main town, well-maintained and suitable for all fitness levels.
Row out to the Church of the Assumption in the middle of Lake Bled – if you’ve ever seen a picture of Lake Bled, chances are it featured a small wooden rowing boat and the small island that’s home to the Church of the Assumption in the middle of the lake. Spending a few hours out on the water is a great way to experience Lake Bled and there are a few vendors around the lake hiring out row boats in the cooler Autumn months, which will set you back between €15 and €20 for 1hr.
Go zip lining – this was hands down one of the best things I did in Lake Bled! The zip line course is celebrated as the longest in Europe at 4km long and takes you back and forth over the stunning Dolinka River. You can easily book online for €65 per person.
Hike to Mala Osojnica (or to Bled Castle if you’re after a shorter walk) – there are so many hikes to choose from around Lake Bled so I’ve tried to narrow it down to 2 options here. If you’re looking for something more challenging, then the hike to Mala Osojnica is for you. It will take you around 45mins one way along a steep forest path, but with the most amazing panoramic views of the lake as a reward. For a more leisurely option, the path up to Bled Castle also offers beautiful views but will only take around 20mins one way.
Visit Vintgar Gorge – nestled in Triglav National Park, a trip to Vintgar Gorge is a great way to immerse yourself in the pristine natural landscapes of the area. It’s about 4km from Bled and there are a few ways to get there, although driving is by far the easiest. The 5km walk is absolutely stunning, with boardwalks crisscrossing through the misty Gorge and over the rushing Radovna River…it will take your breath away. There is a cost of €10 per adult to enter (€3 for children) and an extra €5 if you’re wanting to park.
Take a day trip to Ljubljana – no trip to Slovenia would be complete without spending some time in the country’s charming capital city. Ljubljana is known for its lively cultural scene, green spaces, and stunning architecture. You can spend hours hopping from café to café, stopping into a few of the city’s’ museums and galleries, and take a walk up to the iconic Ljubljana Castle and soak up the views over the city.
Visit Wellness Ziva Spa on a rainy day – if you find yourself at a loss for how to spend a rainy day in Lake Bled, then look no further than Wellness Ziva Spa. Treat yourself to a few hours in the thermal pools, relax in saunas that overlook the lake or book in for a massage.
Top left & right: Vintgar Gorge / Bottom left: bridge in Ljubljana / Bottom right: View of island in Lake Bled from hike up to Bled Castle.
Where to wine & dine
- Ostarija Peglez’n – a charming restaurant in the heart of Bled, offering traditional Slovenian dishes. Make sure you try the gnocchi!
- Mega Burger – mouth-watering take away burgers! A perfect dinner option after a big day of hiking, to eat back at your accommodation or sitting by the lake.
- Bled Castle Restaurant – to celebrate a special occasion or even ‘just because’, treat yourself to a delish seasonal tasting menu at Bled Castle Restaurant with a table looking over the lake.
- Castle Coffee Shop – if you’re after something a little more laid-back but still want to enjoy the view from Bled Castle, pay a visit to Castle Coffeeshop for a coffee, a wine or a delicious Bled cream cake while soaking up the scenery. Make sure you check the website before visiting, as the cafe is closed from November to mid-March.
- Restavracija Sova Bled – a beautiful lake-side dining spot that offers a fresh take on traditional dishes, and a pretty impressive wine list too!
- Vila Preseren Bled – grab a table outside in the sunshine, order yourself a coffee or a wine and watch the world go by at this lovely spot by the lake.
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