Bled – the Alpine paradise

Bled is one of the most famous Slovenian sights. For many centuries, it has attracted numerous visitors who come to admire the iconic sight of the Alpine lake and its island. Around the lake, one can see the peaks of the Julian Alps and the Karawanks. The prestigious tourist guide Lonely Planet put Bled as one of the top ten touristic destinations worth visiting. The Slovenian Alpine treasure has even been among the candidates for the new list of the Seven Wonders of the World.

The glacial lake with the only Slovenian natural island is the most recognized place. One of the oldest Slovenian castles, the Bled castle, stands on the rock cliff. When visiting Bled, you cannot miss the opportunity to go to the island with a traditional boat – pletna, visit the St. Mary’s church at the lake, and to ring the wishing bell. The most beautiful view over Bled and its surroundings can be found at the summit Ojstrica at the south of the lake. Just a few kilometres outside Bled, the picturesque Bled Gorge crated by the river Radovna can be found. Rich natural and cultural heritage is accompanied with the local foods, among which is the most recognized a cremeschnitte.

Natural features provide the opportunity for many outdoor activities. In summer, the lake alone offers possibilities for different water activities, while rivers Sava Dolinka and Sava Bohinjka attract adrenaline lovers and fishermen. On the northeast side of the island, the Straža hill is a nice hiking place where in summer, you can sledge and visit the adventures park while during the winter, the hill changes to the ski slope. The plateau Pokljuka with its’ sports centre is also close, and the biggest Slovene golf course is to be found near Bled.

Bled has also hosted many international competitions. The most well-known are rowing regattas, and by the lake, a modern rowing centre was built. Bled rowers have won many medals at the biggest events, the most famous among them are Iztok Čop and Luka Špik. In winter, biathlon competitions are hosted by Pokljuka, moreover, Bled has also hosted championships in marathon and winter swimming.

Good climate and thermal lake springs helped develop the health tourism in Bled. Its initiator was Swiss healer Arnold Rikli at the beginning of the 19^th century. Today, the thermal springs are part of the pools of the local hotels.

In Bled they are aware of the responsibility, imposed by a picturesque nature and rich cultural heritage. That is why they aim for green/sustainable practice in order to keep Bled in good “shape” for the generations to come. A part of sustainable moves is also the promotion of the local brand name Bled Local Selection in which traditional foods, handicrafts and art products of local providers are included. For its efforts, Bled has been awarded the national gold badge Slovenia Green.