One of the most visited tourist destinations in Slovenia is Lake Bled and it is a true marvel. As soon as it comes into sight, you’ll be mesmerised and appreciate why it regularly features in the travel press as being one of the most beautiful lakes in the world.
Busy at the height of summer, so our suggestion is to visit it out of season. You’ll still be able to take in the magic and enchantment but at a more tranquil and leisurely pace.
Our top tip for getting the best out of a visit is to do our Lake Bled – The Legend of Živa Mini Adventure. It’s the perfect way to enjoy your time there – it’s fun and unique, you can do it in your own time and at your own pace, it takes you around the whole lake and gives you plenty of opportunities to stop for coffee, shopping and of course, to take stunning photos!
Here are some things that might interest you about Lake Bled.
o It is 2120 meters long, up to 1380 meters wide with a maximum depth of 29.5 meters. It’s 6 kilometres (3.7 miles) in circumference.
o The World Rowing Championships in 1966, 1979, 1989 and 2011 were held there.
o Thermal springs run into the lake which makes it lovely and warm as well as gives it healing properties. The springs also make it one of the warmest alpine lakes in the world!
o The only natural island in Slovenia can be found here. It’s a little less than an acre and has a few buildings on it, the most important one being the 17th-century Assumption of Mary Church.
o A great method of getting to the island is by the traditional Pletna boat which has a flat bottom and a signature colourful awning. The first Pletnas was built in the 12th century and the special rowing technique, used by the oarsmen, has been passed down through the same families from generation to generation.
o Slovenian newlyweds often visit the island as it is said to be good luck for the groom to carry his bride up the 99 steps on their wedding day.
o It is believed that the church bell on the island grants a wish to whoever rings it. A folk tale tells the story of a young woman who lived in Bled Castle. After thieves had killed her husband, she used all her silver and gold to buy a small bell. The bell was to be put in the chapel on Lake Bled’s island where she prayed every day after her husband’s death. Unluckily, a storm hit the lake when it was being taken across, and the boat with the bell on it sank to the bottom of the lake. Devastated, the widow gave away her fortune, built a church on the island, and moved to Rome where she became a nun. After her death, a different bell was blessed by the Pope and was sent to the island’s church in memory of the widow.
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