Lake Bled Slovenia:

Bled Island

Lake Bled Slovenia is located in the north of Slovenia the site of the old Bohinj Glacier, which dates back to 1004 A.D.

In the centre of Lake Bled, you find the island, which is classed as a monument of cultural and historical beauty.

It provides a lovely relaxing area and a vast range of visitor attractions, combined with many different legendary tales.





Bled Island is outlined with mountains, rivers, and peaceful breathtaking scenery. The island is so far one of the few places which are not overly populated with tourists, remaining a place of tranquility, a place to relax and unwind.

The 99 Steps

The 99 steps is a vast monumental step structure, which goes from the lake up to the very top of the island. The 99 steps structure was built over three hundred and fifty years ago in 1655.

A local tradition when a couple get married on the island is for the groom to carry the bride all the way up the 99 steps, during which time the bride must remain silent.

The Pilgrimage Church of the Assumption of Mary

Bled Island is also home to a historical church called the Pilgrimage Church of the Assumption of Mary. Perched on an island amidst the calm waters of Lake Bled, this ancient church offers one of the most romantic settings in the world for couples to take their wedding vows.

The church also has a well-dated graveyard with graves dating back to the ninth century. On the same site during the middle age period there was a pre-Christian place of worship. An ancient wishing well at the church, dating back over four hundred and seventy years, provides a romantic setting for couples to make a wish on their wedding day. This usually takes place after the ceremony and after the groom has rung the huge church bell, another local tradition on the island.

Activities around Lake Bled Slovenia

The lake around Bled Island is very popular amongst rowers as it has fantastic rowing conditions combined with breathtaking scenery. The lake has also played host to the world rowing championships three times in the past and is scheduled to do so again in 2011.

As well as sightseeing, the island also offers a wide choice of sporting activities including mountain biking, hill walking, golf, fishing and horse riding. Hill walkers in particular, will enjoy the sites of the picturesque Vintgar Gorge.

Gondola Trip

Gondola trips to and from the island depart frequently from many areas around the lake and remain the most popular means of reaching the island. The gondola style boats called "Pletna" have changed little over the years and are still manoeuvred in the old-fashioned way with the rower standing up at the back of the boat and rowing with two huge oars. It is said that no visit to Lake Bled is complete without a journey on a Pletna.

Walking

There are some wonderful walks with exquisite scenery, offering excellent photographic opportunities. Also recommended, is a four-mile long walk along the path surrounding the lake.

Lake Bled Slovenia Weather

Bled usually has cold winters and sunny and warm summers. The average summer temperature is about twenty degrees centigrade. The summer weather makes it a good time for swimming in the luxurious warm and clear lake. The average winter temperature is about zero degrees centigrade, which makes it the ideal time for skiing, and ice-skating.