Bled in Your Pocket

Bled
Bled Island
There are many reasons to visit
Slovenias only island
Bled Film Festival
The frst Bled Film Festival is set
to be a summer hit
Summer - Autumn 2014
Maps Events Restaurants Cafs Nightlife Sightseeing Shopping Hotels
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Massage / Sauna / Body Care Treatments / Cosmetc Treatments
Public Lido
Beaches Velika Zaka
SPA & WELLNESS Essense
THAI SPA Center at Lovec Hotel
Massages are carried out at
Cankarjeva 20/c, Bled / +386 4 57 67 450 / +386 40 99 66 66
info@essense.si / www.essense.si
Reservaton is necessary for all services
Summer - Autumn 2014 5 facebook.com/bled.inyourpocket
Contents
E S S E N T I A L
C I T Y G U I D E S
Enjoy the views at iva Wellness, the largest wellness centre in the
region
Arrival & Transport 7
Getting to and around Bled
Culture & Events 10
Concerts, conferences, marathons and more
Restaurants 15
World-class dining with unbeatable views
Cafs 20
Coee and cakes around the lake
Sightseeing 22
The island, the castle and much more
Sports & Activities 27
Adrenaline parks to relaxing wellness
Hotels 30
Business suites to hostel bunks
Bohinj 35
Even more breathtaking than Bled Radovljica 42
This hilltop town is honestly sweet
Brdo Pri Kranju 46
The domain of delights
Maps & Index
Bled map 48
Bohinj map 49
Some people are so determined to visit Bled Castle, not even a sheer
rock cli face can deter them!
All you need to
know about where
to sleep, eat, drink,
visit and enjoy
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6 Bled In Your Pocket bled.inyourpocket.com Summer - Autumn 2014 7 facebook.com/bled.inyourpocket
Arriving & Getting Around Foreword
If there was a tick sheet of things a tourist or traveller
would want from a place based purely on aesthetics, it
would probably run something as such; big blue lake,
idyllic island, iconic church, domineering castle atop a
hill. Lake Bled has all of this, with the added bonus of
the church sitting proudly in the middle of the island. It
is one of the most popular destinations in Slovenia, and
for good reason.
As picturesque as a destination can be, Bled is one of
the most striking Alpine resorts going and oers some-
thing for all manner of visitors, be they old, young, those
in search of activity or in search of relaxation. It truly is
the dictionary denition of serenity. Slovenias only is-
land is the focal point, a small haven with the quaint-
est of churches dominating the scene. Learn about the
history of time telling in the separate Bell Tower before
tasting some traditional Potica, a pastry nut roll with
no end of llings. Some 120m above the lake we nd
Bled Castle, the oldest in the country keeping an ever-
present protective watch over the lake.
Of course it is the lake that steals the show, with its glis-
tening blue-green water that is clearer than it has any
right to be. A 2km long path winds around it, providing
one of the most tranquil walks weve ever walked. There
arent many more relaxing experiences than a slow stroll
in the sun as the Alpine mountains reect o the pic-
ture-perfect water. Dont be put o by the ever-growing
numbers of tourists visiting; Lake Bled deserves every
single visitor it receives. And as always we welcome any
and all feedback, be it on Facebook, Twitter or even old-
fashioned email.
Publisher
Bled In Your Pocket
Drenikova 33, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Tel. +386 30 316 602
bled@inyourpocket.com, www.inyourpocket.com
Director Niko Slavnic M.Sc., niko.slavnic@inyourpocket.com
ISSN 1855-3486
IQBATOR d.o.o.
PrintedEvrogras d.o.o.
Published twice per year
Editorial
Editor Yuri Barron
Writers John Bills, Will Dunn, James Cosier, Yuri Barron
Design Design Vaida Gudynait
Consulting Craig Turp
Photography Bled Tourist Board, Shutterstock
Cover photo Tomo Jeseninik / Blejkski Otok
Sales & Circulation
Sales & Operations Management
Irena Jamnikar, Stanka Parkelj Rozina, Karmen Hribar
Copyright notice
Text and photos copyright IQBATOR d.o.o. Maps copyright
cartographer. All rights reserved. No part of this publication
may be reproduced in any form, except brief extracts for
the purpose of review, without written permission from the
publisher and copyright owner. The brand name In Your Pocket
is used under license from UAB In Your Pocket (Bernardin 9-4,
Vilnius, Lithuania, tel. (+370) 5 212 29 76).
Maps
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ABOUT IYP
We have come a long way in the 22
years since we published the rst In
Your Pocket guide - to Vilnius in Lithu-
ania - so much so that we are today the
largest publisher of locally-produced
city guides in the world. The recent
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ARRIVING IN BLED
Tucked up close to the Austrian border, as little as an hour
away from the Slovene capital Ljubljana, getting to Bled by
train, bus or car is a relatively painless experience.
Arriving by Plane
Ljubljana Joe Punik Airport is located approximately half
way between Ljubljana and Bled, and you can expect to
pay around 45 for a taxi into town. Buses are considerably
cheaper (5.40, with up to 19 connections on weekdays,
but virtually none on weekends) although you have to
transfer in Kranj. There are also up to six direct shuttles per
day (13). You can see the full schedules on the airports
website at www.lju-airport.si.
Arriving by Bus
Buses leave every hour on the hour from the main bus sta-
tion in Ljubljana and take about 80 minutes to make the jour-
ney. Close to the town centre at the northeastern tip of the
lake, the main bus station (glavno postajalie) has a kiosk
outside selling chocolate, soft drinks and cigarettes. To get to
the city centre, walk south along Cesta Svobode until you hit
the water. Schedule and prices can be found on the ocial
Ljubljana bus station website at www.ap-ljubljana.si.
Arriving by Train
Bled has two train stations, but unfortunately neither is lo-
cated in the centre of town. Over 20 trains a day from Lju-
bljana call at Lesce-Bled station which is on the main line,
but is 4km away, meaning you will either have a lengthy
hike or short bus ride into town. The other station is Bled-
Jezero a couple kilometres to the west, which sees up to
ve trains a day from the capital, however you have to
transfer at Jesenice which can lead to a total journey time
of almost 3 hours. Check out Slovenia Railways incredibly
user-friendly website for a complete schedule and prices at
www.slo-zeleznice.si.
Arriving by car
From Ljubljana take the A2 highway northwest out of the
city and follow the signs for Kranj or Jesenice. From Austria,
pass Jesenice following signs for Ljubljana. Bled is well
sign-posted. The journey time is around 40 minutes
from Ljubljana, and it may get very crowded on Sundays
in season at the end of highway. Once youve reached
the town, there is ample parking available, but most of
it must be paid between the hours of 07:00-20:00, with
prices ranging from 0.50-2 per hour or 3-10 per day.
Inquiring about the various options at your hotel prior
to arrival is usually a good idea. For those with electric
cars, there is a free charging station on the lower level
of the parking garage at Hotel Krim near Bled Sports
Hall - the key can be collected at the hotels reception.
TAXIS
BLED TAXI
Bleds number one taxi service for airport transfers, excur-
sions and longer journeys, the folks at Bled Taxi have more
than 15 years experience working with foreign guests and
drivers speak both English and German. Prices for the most
popular destinations in Slovenia, as well as nearby airports,
can be found on their website, while theyre happy to give
quotes for return services on day trips elsewhere in the
country and the region. A larger Volkswagen and Mer-
cedes van is available for groups of up to eight passengers.
Qtel. +386 (0)41 710747, bled.taxi@gmail.com, www.
bled-taxi.si.
SYMBOL KEY
P Air conditioning A Credit cards accepted
B Outside seating H Conference facilities
T Child-friendly U Facilities for the disabled
F Fitness centre L Guarded parking
R LAN connection 6 Pet-friendly
K Restaurant J Old town location
D Sauna C Swimming pool
I Fireplace W Wi
GORENJSKA GREEN CARD
Those who travel frequently are sure to be famil-
iar with the standard tourist cards that seem to
be found in most major cities these days, usually
offering discounts for a variety attractions, restau-
rants, transport, shops and services. The region-
wide Gorenjska Guest Green Card follows this same
model, but with two notable exceptions: its valid
for up to 30 days and is completely free of charge!
One card is also sufficient for the whole family, so
you dont have to worry about the kids losing theirs.
Cards can be ordered online in advance or picked
up at any regional tourist information centre, and
are also available directly from many accommo-
dation providers in the region. A full list of all the
cards benefits and more info can be found on the
official website at www.slovenian-alps.com.
8 Bled In Your Pocket bled.inyourpocket.com
Language
The fertile land and the protective shelter of the castle hill
and the island, have always invited settlement around the
Bled area. The rst, and rare traces of humans in Bled, date
back to the Stone Age. In the Iron Age, when the mining of
iron had begun in the Alpine regions, settlement increased.
Beneath the layer of an already discovered Slavic necropo-
lis at Pristava pod Gradom, archeologists discovered 80
gravesites from the late Iron Age (800 to 600 BC) - Celtic
and Roman nds however, are more modest. Bled was later
well populated by the Slavs, who arrived in two waves. The
Slavic settlements were most probably located at exactly
the same spots where the lakeside villages of Mlino, elee,
Zagorice, Grad and Reica formed in the late Middle Ages.
A number of gravesites are well known: ale - the site of a
modern day cemetery (archeologically excavated in 1894),
the park at the current Vila Bled (1929), the necropolis in
elee (1937), the large necropolis at Pristava pod Gradom
(1948 to 1951), the gravesites next to the current parking
area below the entrance to the castle (1960, 1968) and the
necropolis on Bled island (1962 to 1966).
Slavic settlement
The rst wave of settlement of the Bled area occurred in
the 7th century, the next reached the Bled basin during
the 9th and 10th centuries. Discoveries from the rst set-
tlements illustrate the culture of the Old Slavic state of King
Samo (632 - 658) and the late antiquity traditions in these
lands. The discoveries from the second wave of settlement,
such as ornaments found in gravesites include enamelled
and engraved earrings in the shape of half-moons, circlets,
round brooches and iron knives. These artefacts indicate
the historical development of Bled up to the 10th century
and some of these can be seen on exhibition at the Castle
museum.
The bishops of Brixen
After the fall of the Old Slavic state, Bled with its surround-
ing area fell under Frankisch (Charlemagne 782) and later
under German rule. In 1004 the emperor Henrik II divided
the lands between the two Sava Rivers, and in 1011 award-
ed Bled Castle, to Bishop Albuin of Brixen - a photocopy of
the original title deed can be found in the collection at the
castle. This action was a major turning point in the history
of Bled. The keepers of the castle were bonded knights,
who upheld feudal authority in the name of the bishops.
As a result, great changes occurred in the forming of es-
tates and the settlement of the region. In the middle of
the 14th century the Bishops of Brixen gave up direct ad-
ministration of their properties in Bled and leased them to
the chief administrators at the time, the von Kreigh family.
Because of encroachment on their rights and brutal treat-
ment and oppression, in 1515 the peasants joined the
ght for the old justice in a pan-Slovene revolt.
In 1558 a new holder, the Protestant protector Herbert VII
of Auersperg, took over the castle. Until the middle of the
18th century the lessors were exclusively aristocratic; later
these also included townsmen, but they rarely lived in the
castle. In 1803, after 800 years of Brixen rule, Bled passed
into state ownership by a decree of the Court Commission
in Vienna.
From 1809 to 1813, it was included in Napoleons Empire as
part of the Illyrian provinces, and then it came once again
into the hands of the Austrian Emperor who returned Bled
to the bishops of Brixen for the last time in 1838. With the
abolishment of the feudal system ten years later, the estate
lost its character of a feudal economic and social unit. In
the second half of the 19th century, Bled changed consid-
erably. The characteristic villages of Gorenjska, which had
been autonomous units ever since the Middle Ages, were
united. Income decreased, and in 1858 Brixen sold the Bled
estate to Viktor Ruard, the owner of the Jesenice Ironworks.
He kept the castle, the lake and the usable land around it,
and sold the rest to the Kranj Industrial Company. In 1882
Ruard sold the estate to a Viennese wholesale merchant
named Adolf Muhr, and in 1919 Bled hotelier Ivan Kenda
bought the castle with the lake - for the rst time the prop-
erty passed into Slovenian hands. In 1937 it was taken over
by the Associated Commercial Bank and nally bought by
the Drava Province. During World War II, Bled was used to
house the German military and civil headquarters, and in
1960 it acquired the status of a town.
Tourism in Bled and Arnold Rikli
The rst numerous visitors to Bled were pilgrims, coming to
see the church on the island of course. Following Valvasors
reporting of the thermal springs in The Glory of the Duchy
of Carniola in 1689, numbers of people seeking health
benets here rose, and thus there were several attempts to
destroy the springs and/or lake in order to quash this atten-
tion, unwanted by certain gures. Alas, they survived, and
organised tourism started around the middle of the 1800s.
Swiss hydropath Arnold Rikli spent 52 years in Bled, found-
ing the Institute of natural healing, and perfecting a reha-
bilitation program of bathing, taking steam baths, walking,
and eating vegetarian; which proved a hit. Indeed, Bled
was later recognised as one of the most important tour-
ist sites in the Austrian empire, receiving a gold medal in
Vienna in 1903; having got its own train station at Lesce
in 1870.
PRONUNCIATION
Pronunciation
c - as in pizza - like c in cello
e - as in egg - like sh in ship
g - as in go - like s in pleasure
j - like y in yogurt
Slovene is a Southern Slavic language with a 25-letter alpha-
bet. It is closely related to Serbian and Croatian, and also shares
many words with other Slavic languages. Although some
words and letter combinations may appear unpronounceable
at rst glance, Slovene is actually a fairly phonetic language
with very few irregularities - although the letters L and V can
do some strange things depending on their position in a word.
Luckily, most Slovenes speak either English, Italian or German
embarrassingly well, so chances are you wont have to worry
about any communication problems. However, as with most
countries, attempting to use a little bit of the local language can
go a long way towards winning over your hosts. Even the odd
hvala and prosim wont go unnoticed.
Basics
Do you speak English? - Govorite angleko (Goh-voh- REE-
teh Ahn-GLESH-ko) ?
I dont understand - Ne razumem (Nuh ra-ZOO-mehm)
Where is the toilet? WC? - Kje je stranie (Key-yay strahn-
EESH-chay) ? WC (Vay-tsay)?
Good Morning - Dobro Jutro (DOH-broh YOO- troh)
Good Day - Dober Dan (DOH-behr Dahn)
Good Night - Lahko no (Lah-koh noh-ch)
Yes - Ja (Yah)
No - Ne (Nay)
Hello - ivjo (Jeeve-yoh)
Thank you - Hvala (HVAL-a)
Please - Prosim (PRO-seem)
Excuse me/Sorry Oprostite (Oh-PROS-tee-tay)
Pardon me (asking for help) Prosim (pro-SEEM)
My name is....- Jaz sem (Yahz sem) ...
I am from... - Jaz sem iz (Yahz sem iz)...
Days
Monday - ponedeljek (POH-nuh-dehl-yek)
Tuesday - torek (TOR-ek)
Wednesday - sreda (Sray-dah)
Thursday - etrtek (chuh-TUR-tuck)
Friday - petek (peh-tuck)
Saturday - sobota (soh-BOH-tah)
Sunday - nedelja (nuh-DEHL-yah)
Questions
Who? - Kdo?(K-doh)
What? - Kaj?(Kai)
Where? - Kje ? (Key-yay)
When? - Kdaj (K-dai)
Howmuchdoes it cost? - Kolikostane(KOH-lee-kohSTAH-neh)?
Places
Croatia - Hrvaka (Hurr-VASH-ka)
England - Anglija (Ahn-glee-yah)
Germany - Nemija (Nem-CHEE-yah)
Hungary - Madarska (Mad-jar-skah)
Ireland - Irska (Ear-skah)
Netherlands - Nizozemska (NEE-zo-zem-skah)
Scotland - kotska (Shkot-skah)
Venice - Benetke (Behn-et-keh)
Vienna - Dunaj (Doo-nigh)
Post
One foreign stamp, please - Eno znamko za tujino, prosim
(Eh-no z-nahm-koh zah too-YEE-noh pro- SEEM)
For postcard - Za razglednico (Zah raz-GLEHD-neet-so)
For letter - Za pismo (Zah pees-moh)
Signs
Open - odprto (Ohd-PURT-oh)
Closed - zaprto (Zah- PURT-oh)
Entrance - vhod (oo-hod)
Exit - izhod (eez-hod)
Push rini (ree-nee)
Pull vleci (oo-LETS-ee)
Travelling
Bus - avtobus (OW-toh-booze)
Train - vlak (v-LOCK)
I am looking for.... - Iem (EESH-chem) ...
One ticket, please - Eno vstopnico, prosim (Eh-noh oo-
stop-NEETZ-oh pro- SEEM)
Times
Now - zdaj (z-dai)
Later - kasneje (kaz-NAY-yeh)
Today - danes (dahn-es)
Tomorrow - jutri (yoo-tree)
Yesterday - veraj (oo-cheh-ray)
In the morning - zjutraj (z-YOO-try)
In the afternoon - popoldne (poh-POLD-neh)
In the evening - zveer (z-veh-chehr)
At night - ponoi (poh-NOH-chee)
Restaurant Talk
Menu, please - Meni, prosim (MEH-ni pro-SEEM)
Bill, please - Raun, prosim (Rah-CHOON pro- SEEM)
Do you have vegetarian food? - Imate vegetarijansko hrano
(EE-mah-tay veh-geh-tay-ree-ahn-sko h-rah-noh)?
Small Talk
Whats your name? - Kako ti je ime? (Kko TEE yeh E-meh)
How old are you? - Koliko si star/stara (asking a male/fe-
male)? (Ko LEE ko see star/stara)
What is your job? - Kaj dela po poklicu? (Kai delash poh
pokleetsu)
What do you study? - Kaj tudira? (Kai shtud EAR ash)
Do you play sport? - A porta? (A shport ash)
Are you a musician? - A si glasbenik/glasbenica (male/fe-
male)? (A SEE glaz benick/glaz beneetsa)
What is your star sign? - Kaj si po horoskopu? (Kai SEE poh
horoh skop-oo)
Jozip Broz Tito was a frequent visitor to Bled during his more than
three decades as leader of Yugoslavia, even keeping a summer resi-
dence here
Summer - Autumn 2014 9 facebook.com/bled.inyourpocket
History
Culture & Events Culture & Events
ANNUAL EVENTS
JUNE
MEDIEVAL DAYS AT BLED CASTLE
The origins of Bleds thousand year history are of course
connected with its clitop castle, the oldest in Slove-
nia by written records. The heart of the Brixen estate in
Carniola, the castle buildings and courtyards were un-
doubtedly the scene of much tumultuous happenings,
lest we say barbarisms. Performances at the festival in
memory of this period include medieval music, a mar-
ket, tasting of delicacies, and of course battle.Qwww.
blejski-grad.si.
JULY
BLED DAYS AND BLED NIGHT
Held on a late July weekend each year, this festival is one
of the summers main festivals in Bled, and consists of a
diverse schedule of events ranging from a daily arts and
crafts fair and childrens puppet shows to street theatre
performances and concerts. One event not to be missed is
the traditional lighting of candles on the lake followed by
a reworks display from the castle. See the ocial website
for the complete programme.QVarious Venues, www.
bled.si.
INTERNATIONAL BLED MUSIC FESTIVAL
Lasting a couple of weeks, the festival is centred around
a series of classical music concerts that take place almost
nightly in dierent venues - including Bleds Festival Hall, St
Martins Church, Vila Bled and Radovljicas magnicent Ba-
roque Hall. In addition to the performances, there is an inter-
national viola and violin competition, which draws some of
the best young competitors from around the world, a series
of nine week-long master classes led by renowned compos-
ers and musicians from eight dierent countries, and an art
exhibition featuring well-known Slovene artists. First held in
1996, the festival has since grown to be one of the biggest
and most important of its type in central Europe.QVari-
ous Venues, tel. +386 (0)4 531 76 10/+386 (0)41 887 545,
festival.bled@siol.net, www.festivalbled.com.
NIGHT RUN AROUND LAKE BLED (NONA 10KM)
As the name suggests, this unique take on the traditional 10km
race takes place after the sun goes down. Participants compete
in one of ve age groups, and the course consists of more than
two laps around lake. The main event begins at 22:00, while a
recreational 1.2km run leaves at 21:00, and a 400m and 800m
childrens run at 20:00.Qwww.nocna10ka.net.
RIKLIS SPORT DAYS
Swiss doctor Arnold Rikli was one of the rst people to rec-
ognise the value and health benets of Bleds climate and
location. He developed his own healing methods based
BLED FILM FESTIVAL
17.06 TUESDAY - 21.06 SATURDAY
BLED FILM FESTIVAL
This coming June will see the unveiling of the rst an-
nual Bled Film Festival, and we cant think of a more
poetic location for such a happening. The event has
a twofold aim, as many lm festivals tend to. The ob-
vious is to celebrate the art of cinema, but arguably
more important is the thematic focus of the lms.
Hoping to raise awareness of environmental issues
regarding water, the festival hopes to make a change
through the medium of lm. As we all know, lms are
wonderful catalysts for self-evaluation and retrospec-
tion. A number of events will take place around the
festival, such as talks from respected people in the
lm industry and a number of free lm screenings in
an open cinema by the lake. Supported by lmmakers
from all over Europe and the United States, this prom-
ises to be a most inspiring occasion.QCesta Svobode
7, info@bledf.com, www.bledf.com.
on the eects of light, air and water, and went on to found
the Natural Health Institute in 1855. To commemorate the
good doctors contributions both to health and tourism in
Bled, a series of sporting events is held the rst weekend of
every July, which includes tennis and miniature golf tour-
naments, and a recreational walk.
AUGUST
19.07 SATURDAY - 09.08 SATURDAY
OKARINA ETHNO MUSIC FESTIVAL
First held in 1991, the original line up for the then one-day
Okarina Etno Festival contained just two artists, a group
made up of Slovenes and Croats and another from Czech
Republic. By 1998 this had exploded into a festival featur-
ing 26 artists from 14 dierent countries spanning 10 days.
Back down to a more streamlined line up this year, the
Okarina Etno Festival is celebrating its 24th year of work.
Taking place in Bled Castle and Spa Park, it is a colourful
celebration of all things folk. Line up and more informa-
tion can be found online.Qtel. +386 (0)4 572 97 70, info@
zkbled.si, www.festival-okarina.si.
BLED MINI MARATHON AND RECREATIONAL
RUN (BLEJSKI MARATON) Another of Bleds many
annual sport events, the Bled Marathon includes both a
21km half-marathon and a 6km recreational run around
the lake.Qwww.bled.si.
SEPTEMBER
BLED STRATEGIC FORUM
Held each September, the Bled Strategic Forum is intended
to promote a high-level strategic dialogue between lead-
ers from the private and public sectors on the key issues
facing Europe and the 21st-century world. The aim of the
Forum is to generate new strategies capable of allowing
The surface of Lake Bled is illuminated with candles during the Bled Days and Bled Night celebrations each July
20. VI. 5. VII. 2014
Maribor Slovenia
www.festival-lent.si
22. june - 6. december 2014
e
arly
music
festival
Te picturesque Slovene landscape in early summer evenings.
Te majestic architecture of castles and churches. Te glow
of evening fres. Tasting wonderful wines. Tese exciting
and emotional moments are accompanied with music
played on authentic instruments by the fnest musicians
from all over the world.
www.seviqc-brezice.si
v
Festibus transportation from Ljubljana to all the concert venues.
More information: Ars Ramov zavod za umetnost, marketing, promocijo in investiranje
T: +386 (0)1 242 08 12, M: +386 (0)51 30 30 40, E: info@k-ramovs.si

Restaurants Culture & Events
Long famous for its legendary cream cakes, in recent years
Bleds culinary scene has really begun to fourish, with
some of the countrys top chefs plying their trade at vari-
ous venues in and near the town. For those who are simply
looking to for a decent meal rather than the full on four-
star gourmet experience, Bled also ofers plenty of choices,
from hearty regional cuisine served in family-run gostilna
to Chinese, Mexican and various takeaway options.
CHINESE
PEKING
Tatty but fun, with all the classic Chinese restaurant trim-
mings such as red lanterns and pictures of pagodas, work
up an appetite by strolling up the hill and dropping in
here. The service is average, the sta are rather giggly, and
the food, running the complete classic Chinese spectrum
from prawn crackers and spring rolls to sweet and sour
chicken to beef chop suey, is both excellent value and au-
thentic.QE-3, Ulica Narodnih Herojev 3, tel. +386 (0)45
74 17 16. Open 12:00 - 23:00. PTAUGBXS
INTERNATIONAL
LABOD
At the top of the hill leading from the bus station down
to the lake itself, Labod oers plenty of space and plenty
of choice. Mains start at 10 and feature the usual special-
ties: meat, sh and pasta dishes. It also has a Pokemon
Plate for the kids. A daily tourist menu of three courses
for only 12 is also available, featuring excellent soups, a
main dish and a dessert. The pancakes in particular are ex-
cellent. It also has plenty of outdoor seating looking over
the lake.QD-2, Cesta Svobode 8a, tel. +386 (0)45 79 84
53, info@restavracijalabod.si, www.restavracijalabod.
si. Open 12:00 - 23:00. Closed Sun. (6.60-20). PT
JAULEBKSW
OKARINA
Slovenes are still slowly but surely discovering Indian food,
and when the penny drops the Okarina Restaurant in Bled
will be at forefront. The classic Indian dishes are represent-
ed, from samosas to pakori to a selection of curries. With
a vast menu covering everything from sophisticated fare
through to Balkan grilled meat and the aforementioned
Indian selection, the hardest part really comes down to
choosing what to eat. The great selection available to
vegetarians makes Okarina a most excellent group op-
tion in Bled.QD-3, Ljubljanska 8, tel. +386 (0)45 74 14
58, leo@okarina.com, www.okarina.com. Open 12:00
- 15:00, 18:00-23:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 24:00. (8-30).
TA6GBXSW
OTARIJA PEGLEZN
A simple rustic design punctuated with rag dolls, plates,
old coee pots and a broken hat stand in which to feast on
a large and highly recommended selection of sh, meat
and pasta dishes. The Trout a la Trieste seems to be popular
LENT FESTIVAL
20.06 FRIDAY - 05.07 SATURDAY
The Lent Festival - held every year for two weeks
between the end of June and early July - is in
many ways Maribors pride and joy. It attracts
tens of thousands of people from near and far and
gives them a belting time, with its unbelievable
programme of music and art, both classical and
contemporary. Everyone goes: families with small
children, young couples and artistic loners staring
at the water with yet another beer-in-hand. But
the main achievement of the festival is that most
of the activity takes place on the slim strip of terra
firma that is the Lent embankment, also the old-
est part of the city. How it can cram the throngs
gathered without shoving half of them kicking
and screaming into the nearby River Drava takes
some doing.QVarious Venues, tel. +386 (0)2 229
40 11/+386 (0)31 479 000, vstopnice@nd-mb.si,
www.festival-lent.si.
Europe to better use its strategic space and leverage, and
also to attract political commitments to these strategies. In
addition, the forum oers a platform for cooperation be-
tween the private and public sectors aimed at developing
common integrated approaches to resolving outstanding
challenges and tackling new ones.Qtel. +386 (0)1 478 21
08, fax +386 (0)1 478 23 55, bledstrategicforum.mzz@
gov.si, www.bledstrategicforum.org.
BLED TRIATHLON
If you feel like going for a little 1500m swim, followed by
a 40km bike ride, and topped o with a short 10km run,
then the Bled Triathlon was made just for you! If youre
not up for the rigours of the course outlined above, there
are many other races taking place at the same time with
lengths suitable for amateurs. Its possible to register via
the internet.Qtel. +386 (0)1 832 72 20, info@trisport-
klub.si, www.trisport-klub.si.
seviqc breice festival
22.06 SUNDAY - 06.12
The Seviqc Breice Festival is synonymous with early
music in Slovenia and one of its most important cul-
tural events. Most of the distinguished invited artists
perform a carefully selected programme, which shows
the colourfulness of musical styles from dierent Eu-
ropean countries, from the middle ages right up to
the beginning of the 20th century. This diverse pro-
gramme is the very aim of the Seviqc Breice Festival,
whose name comes from the abbreviation of the Latin
expression Semper Viva Quam Creata, which means
Always live as created.
One of the most important early music festivals in Eu-
rope, the performances will take your mind and soul
back through time and space in some of the most
beautiful and atmospheric concert halls in the coun-
try. To make getting to the concerts easier, the festival
also arranges direct transportation - a so-called Fes-
tibus - to each venue from Ljubljana. More informa-
tion can be found in English on the ocial website.
QVarious venues across Slovenia, tel. +386 (0)1 242
08 12/+386 (0)51 30 30 40, info@k-ramovs.si, www.
seviqc-brezice.si.
NOVEMBER
OBERKRAINER FESTIVAL
This celebration of Oberkrainer music, a traditional Slovene
folk style that is akin to the polka and waltz, will feature per-
formances by various internationally renowned ensembles,
and is guaranteed to liven up the town for at least one late
autumn weekend. In addition to music, plenty of traditional
food and drinks are also on hand, and the event always
attracts thousands of visitors from Austria and Germany
- where Oberkrainer is perhaps even more popular than
in Slovenia - as well as from Italy, Hungary and elsewhere.
QSports Hall Bled, Ljubljanska 5, tel. +386 (0)4 57 80 500,
lili.osterbenk@dzt.bled.si, www.bled.si.
DECEMBER
MERRY DECEMBER IN BLED
Christmas time in Bled is as an important time as anywhere
else, with events held throughout the month of December.
The highlights are undoubtedly the Sinking of the Bell on
Christmas night (which is based on a centuries-old legend
involving murder, nuns, the Pope and the actual sinking of a
bell) and New Years Eve celebrations along the waterfront
with an almost legendary reworks display. Every weekend
in December there is also a full programme of events for
children and arts fair held at Hotel Park, while on Christmas
eve and Christmas day you can catch a glimpse of Santa
Claus himself riding around the town on a horse-drawn
sleigh. A full programme of the months events can be
found on the citys ocial website.Qwww.bled.si.
See top classical music performances during the International Bled
Festival
In addition to its amazing sights, Bled also has some world-class restaurants to choose from
Restaurants Where to eat
here, as indeed does the octopus salad and ice-cream with
hot fruit, the latter two not coming together on the same
plate. Once again, everything is complimented with an
admirable wine list including reds and whites from both
Slovenia and abroad.QD-3, Cesta Svobode 19a, tel. +386
(0)45 74 42 18, ostarija-peglezn.mestna-izlozba.com.
Open 11:00 - 23:00. (6-27). TA6IGBXS
SKRITI VRT
The perfect place for folks a genuine love of food, Vila Is-
tras on-site restaurant is mouth-watering in every sense
of the term. Whilst the balconies have all of the romance
and grace you would expect from a balcony meal on Lake
Bled, it is the indoor dining area that really wins out here.
Its positively dripping in style. A large table dominates
the room, and loath as we are to lavish praise on a table
it is a gorgeous piece of work. A menu that changes on a
daily basis allows the passionate and enthusiastic chef to
really explore his skills, using fresh produce hand picked
from the wild.QCesta Svobode 35, tel. +386 59 0808 08,
book@skritivrt.si, vila-istra.info.
TOPOLINO
Self-described as without a doubt the best restaurant in
the entire Gorenjska region of Slovenia, while we know
more than a few of their competitors would take umbrage
with this pronouncement, there may be some truth to
it. Some of the slow food creations that come out of the
kitchen of skilled chef Zoran Stani are truly delectable,
and this is denitely the kind of place where the menu
doesnt even need to be opened, or at least this is usually
our chosen approach.QE-2, Ljubljanska 26, tel. +386 (0)4
574 17 81, anita.bobic@telemach.net, www.topolino-
slo.com. Open 12:00 - 23:00. Closed Tue. JAL
PIZZA
ARBOR PIZZERIA
Shopping centres arent usually the places to head for a
good meal, but the so-called Gadda Centre in Bled isnt
any ordinary shopping centre. Hidden within is Arbor Piz-
zeria, which has a plethora of outdoor seating, as well as an
elegant interior that is the more atmospheric option. A cir-
cular marble bar is the dominant feature, with quietly dig-
nied seating throughout. The food is excellent too, with
grilled dishes, sh, enormous salad platters and of course
pizzas all available.QLjubljanska 4, tel. +386 (0)4 574 30
33, www.arborbled.si. Open 10:00 - 22:00.
PIZZERIA BRIKSEN
Owned by Slovene ice hockey player Toma Razingar, it
seems only natural that this incredibly popular pizzeria
is located in Bleds sports hall, whose main function is as
an arena for hockey and other ice-based sports. In addi-
tion to the oversized pizzas, the menu features various
burgers, fries, kebaps, sandwiches, sausages and even a
full English breakfast, which are balanced out with some
slightly healthier looking salads. One new addition is the
so-called Soi pizza - introduced to the menu to celebrate
the Slovene national teams qualication for the 2014 Win-
ter Olympics in Sochi, Russia.QLjubljanska 5, tel. +386
(0)40 652 995, www.pizzerijabriksen.com. Open 08:00
- 24:00.PYALVBW
RIKLI PIZZERIA
In the bustling heart of Bled, on the waterfront beneath
Hotel Park, you can find the friendly Rikli Pizzeria. In
fine weather, you may prefer to enjoy your meal with
a view from the outdoor terrace. The food is prepared
with the freshest ingredients, and the menu boasts 15
types of pizza, including the house specialty Rikli and
a superb four-cheese. The pizzeria also offers a wide
selection of salads, vegetable pies, pasta with various
sauces and some delectable desserts.QD-2/3, Svo-
Restaurant Labod
Cesta svobode 8a, 4260 Bled (by hotel Jelovica)
T: +386 (0)4 579 84 53, E: info@restavracijalabod.si
www.restavracijalabod.si
Te restaurant is open from Monday to
Saturday from 11:00 to 22:00, on Sundays
and public holidays from 11:00 to 20:20.
A celebation o gourmet pleasur.
~ Delicious food and an excellent wine list ~
~ Outdoor terrace with a great view of Lake Bled ~
~ Air-conditioned indoor seating area ~
~ Only 100 meters away from the lake ~
Restaurant ARBOR Bled
T + 386 (0)4 574 30 33
bode 15, tel. +386 (0)4 579 18 39, rikli@hotelibled.
com, www.sava-hotels-resorts.com. Open 10:00 -
22:00. PJAULGBKW
SLOVENIAN
BLED CASTLE RESTAURANT
An understandably popular venue for wedding recep-
tions, business meetings and important protocol events
for the government, dont worry if you havent been
invited to any of these, as the restaurant is also open to
individuals - you even get free admission to the castle if
you make a reservation in advance. The modern Slovene
cuisine include specialities from all of the countrys surpris-
ingly diverse regions, and the menu is regularly adapted
to reect the season.QGrajska Cesta, tel. +386 (0)4 579
44 24, restaurant@vgs-bled.si, www.hotelastoria-bled.
com. Open 11:00 - 22:00. PALB
MAYER
This popular family-run restaurant and guesthouse serves
up some of the best traditional Slovenian food in Bled,
including pork and sausage specialities, fresh trout from
local rivers and homemade skutini truklji for dessert. Of
course theres also a full menu of other Slovenian favou-
rites and international dishes. Theres also superb selection
of domestic wines, and the possibility of a short tour of
the wine cellar.QD-3, eleka 7, tel. +386 (0)4 576 5740,
penzion@mayer-sp.si, www.mayer-sp.si. Open 18:00 -
24:00. Closed Mon. PTJAIG
Where to eat Where to eat
TOURIST FARMS
POVIN
You are truly a guest in a Slovenian tourist farmhouse
(turistina kmetija), thus this is neither a restaurant nor
a bone de hotel. What you will nd is delicious home-
made food and drink, from meats to cheeses, to eggs
and vegetables, dumplings and cakes - and of course
brandy. The house is traditional, with its black kitchen
(rna kuhinja) intact, and after meeting the family (in-
cluding the pets) there are many sights nearby to ex-
plore on foot or bike (lake Bled, the castle, gorge etc).
QSelo 22, tel./fax +386 (0)4 576 76 30, povsin@siol.
net, www.povsin-bled.com.
LOVEC GRILL
This newly opened grill restaurant at the centrally located
Hotel Lovec does a lot of things well. Professional ser-
vice from a knowledgable sta, and the best place to sit
is outside on the large terrace where chefs will prepare
your meal right in front of you while you enjoy the view
towards the lake. The menu is top quality from the start-
ers to the desserts and every other course in between,
and many of the ingredients are bought from small-scale
local farmers - or shermen in the case of the freshly
caught trout from the nearby Sava Bohinjska river. Speak-
ing of which, the grilled sh platter comes highly recom-
mended.QLjubljanska 6, tel. +386 (0)4 620 41 26, info@
lovechotel.com, www.lovechotel.com. Open 10:00 -
23:00. PJALB
PANORAMA
Along the shores of Lake Bled, you can enjoy a ne se-
lection of Slovene cuisine and steaks, as well as a killer
wine and dessert list, complete with wonderful service of
course. Oering one of the most pristine views of any res-
taurant in Bled, Panorama denitely lives up to its name.
QD-3, Cesta Svobode 12, tel. +386 (0)4 579 12 75, fax
+386 (0)4 574 18 41, panorama@hotelibled.com, www.
sava-hotels-resorts.com. Open 10:00 - 22:00, Fri, Sat
10:00 - 23:00. JAEBK
PENZION MLINO
Known as a favourite amongst gourmands and connois-
seurs of ne food, this place rates ve stars for its menu
of typical Slovene cuisine. From season to season the
four walls of the guesthouse buzz with a warm, lively
atmosphere and even just outside the front door, the
fun doesnt stop as guests enjoy wonderful views of the
castle, lake activities, walks and cycling around the area.
QC-4, Svobode 45, tel. +386 (0)4 574 14 04, fax +386
(0)4 574 15 06, mlino@mlino.si, www.mlino.si. Open
08:00 - 23:00. (high season); 08.00 - 22.00 (low season)
an. T6UILGBKW
GOSTILNA MURKA
A typical Slovenian gostilna, or rather Gorenjska gostilna,
the sausage and sauerkraut being ne choices here, as
well as other Slovene and also pasta dishes, all served in
massive portions. Murka is mainly popular with locals, so
its the perfect place to make that extra eort with a few
phrases in the Slovene language. The covered outdoor
seating of the terrace is a nice place to dine, out of the hot
sun or indeed a summer shower. Extra oerings at Murka
include schnapps and wine tastings, and medieval meals.
QRiklijeva 9, tel. +386 (0)45 74 33 40/+386 (0)41 24 59
18, info@gostilna-murka.com, www.gostilna-murka.
com. Open 10:00-22:00, Sat-Sun and holidays 12:00-
23:00. JALEB
GOSTILNA PRI PLANINCU
Housed inside a charming traditional house dating from
1903, one of Bleds more well-known restaurants, Gostilna
Pri Planincus Alpine ambience is no coincidence when
you start unravelling the history of the area. With a small
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15. maj 2014 20:45:30
bar at the front and a dining area through a small passage-
way out the back, the traditional menu includes many
local favourites including Karst ham and assorted home-
made sausages.QD-2, Grajska 8, tel. +386 (0)45 74 16 13,
pri.planincu@siol.net, www.pri-planincu.com. Open
09:00 - 24:00. (7-20). TA6GBXS
RESTAURANT 1906
Located in the stately four-star Hotel Triglav Bled (which,
you guess it, was founded in 1906), a meal here is guar-
anteed to be a ne dining experience of the highest
order. The kitchen of head chef Andrej Rovan creates
some simply wonderful dishes, all of which are modern
interpretations of traditional Slovene recipes, methods
and ingredients. In 2011, the restaurant, and its culi-
nary school, were awarded the prestigious Jakob Prize,
given each year at Slovenias largest tourism fair to only
one winner.QKolodvorska 33, tel. +386 (0)4 575 26
10/+386 (0)31 300 097, info@hoteltriglavbled.si, www.
hoteltriglavbled.si. PAW
UNION
An almost hacienda feel inside whats essentially a tradi-
tional, family-run Slovenian restaurant. The personal touch
of the proprietors is served up along with a range of dishes
cooked over an open re. Summertime sees the opening
of a large terrace in the shade of a few chestnut trees, plus
theres a bar too, and a small selection of suites and apart-
ments upstairs if youve eaten and drunk too much to move.
QE-2, Ljubljanska 9, tel. +386 (0)45 78 01 50, info@
union-bled.com, www.union-bled.com. Open 17:30 -
23:30. TA6ILEGBXSW
ZAKA
Situated at a quiet corner of the lake, a 15-minute walk
from the main tourist centre, Zaka is actually a retreat,
but remains convenient, being close to the Bled-Jezero
train station (up to ve trains a day from Ljubljana). In
addition to accommodation, a conference hall, tennis
courts and the rowing centre; good grilled dishes in-
cluding fresh sh can also be enjoyed in the restaurant
or on its terrace overlooking the lake. High quality food
and an abundance of it.Qupanieva 9, tel. +386 (0)4
574 17 09, info@bled-zaka.com, www.bled-zaka.com.
ZHBKW
www.skritvrt.si
Skrit vrt (Mystc Garden), Cesta Svobode 35, 4260 Bled
Cafs Cafs
Many more places to eat and drink in
Bled at bled.inyourpocket.com
JASMIN
Jolly good kremnita and a pot of tea for shirt buttons in-
side a modern albeit basic caf next to the tourist oce.
The tea in question comes in lots of dierent varieties and
is served in dainty little pots. An ideal place to bring your
aged aunt.QD-3, Svobode 10, tel. +386 (0)45 74 38 27,
jasmin.caji@telemach.net, www.jasmin-caji.si. Open
09:00 - 22:00. PAUGBX
LATINO
Located on the upper terrace of Bled shopping centre,
this is a small but lively place to hang out, with good hot
chocolate and a great atmosphere. Actually equally serv-
ing as a bar and cafe, the afternoon to evening not leaving
one wanting for a beer or something stronger, should one
desire.QLjubljanska 4, tel. +386 (0)45 74 13 98.
PARK RESTAURANT & CAF
Sitting opposite the Park hotel and restaurant, on the banks of
the lake is the result of the legend that is Bled cream cake, or Ble-
jska Kremna Rezina in Slovene (see boxed text). The large open
plan kitchen has to work damn hard to keep up with demand
on busy Sunday afternoons and they do it with grace and ease.
An absolute must!QCesta Svobode 15, tel. +386 (0)45 79 18
18, www.sava-hotels-resorts.com. Open 09:00 - 21:00.
PJAULB
PLANINEK CAF
People squeeze into this quaint little cafe because its a
social meeting point for those heading o to work in the
mornings; awaiting their turn for a caeine x and a take-
away pastry from the bakery of the same name next door.
QE-2, Preernova 11, tel. +386 (0)31 76 36 83, www.
pekarna-planika.com. Open 07:00 - 24:00.
SLAIARNA MON
A heralded local pastry shop since 1880, Slaiarna
mon is still the place to go for sweets when in Bled. It
oers a wide range of freshly made pastries and des-
serts, as well as some delicious homemade ice cream.
As with many places in Bled, the Kremna Rezina (Slo-
vene Cream Cake) is the main event. When this is added
to a gorgeous coee and a seat outside in the sun, yet
another slice of perfection is created in this most idyl-
lic of places.QD-2, Grajska 3, tel. +386 (0)4 574 16
16, info@smon.si, www.smon.si. Open 07:30 - 21:00.
TJAULGBK
TROPICAL KAVA BAR
One of two compact (tiny) coee bars tucked into a cosy
corner in the outdoor shopping centre. Tropical Kava Bars
theme is, uncannily, just that. Miniature palms spring up
from every orice, giving the impression of being far away
from the alps. This is agreeable for a while, then its best
just to face the truth and go back to reality, the paradise
that is Lake Bled. A good place for a more serene coee in
the busy summer season.QLjubljanska 4. Open 09:00 -
22:00, Fri, Sat 09:00 - 02:00. JNB
BLED CREAM CAKE
BLED CREAM CAKE (KREMNITA)
Cream cakes, known in Bled for decades, are in fact
the towns symbol. Although you can buy them else-
where, those from Bled are simply the best. Itvan
Lukaevi, the former manager of Hotel Park patis-
serie, tested recipes for many years before he nally
succeeded. His cream cakes, which are prepared at this
patisserie and sold in the caf opposite the hotel, are
famous. What is the secret?
In fact, there is no secret - only experience matters,
and the cooks from Bled have plenty of that. Since
1953 they have been serving up Kremnita here, Oc-
tober 2013 seeing the 12 millionth slice unveiled in a
whirl of glory at the annual carnival in its honour.
Let us tempt you with the recipe: a golden crispy crust
made from butter dough (mixed with butter, not mar-
garine), a delicious vanilla cream of exactly the right
consistency (with exactly the right amount of our - if
there is too much the cakes are no good, if too little,
they collapse after cutting), topped with whipped
cream and a crispy layer of butter dough and nally,
last but not least, a good dusting of icing sugar. You
see? Your mouth is watering already.
NIGHTLIFE
APROPOS COCKTAIL BAR
The main attraction of this caf-cum-cocktail bar is the
the sprawling terrace on the main courtyard of Bleds
shopping centre. The lake itself is visible from where you
sit sipping coee by day and theres regular live music on
summer evenings, for those long island iced teas, etc. Their
selection includes all the classics and none of the cheesy
sex-pun named ones, which gives us the impression of a
serious cocktail establishment, although the interior decor
is a bit uninspiring. On the plus side they also have inter-
net access and free moblile charging.QD-3, Ljubljanska
4, tel. +386 (0)45 74 40 44, aproposjana@yahoo.co.uk.
Open 08:00 - 24:00, Fri 07:00 - 03:00, Sat 08:00 - 03:00,
Sun 08:00 - 02:00. JABW
ART CAF
A popular social hangout for the younger clientele, es-
pecially students from the nearby IEDC Bled School of
Management who like to stop by and mingle amongst
themselves. When theres an important sports event on
TV, the place lls up fast and so do the glasses! The wide,
open terrace that overlooks the lake also brings a steady
ow of tourists, while the gold-framed art work and old
spiral staircase adds a touch of charm to its homey inte-
rior. Denitely, a satisfying choice for day and nighttime
entertainment.QD-2, Cesta Svobode 7a, tel. +386 (0)45
76 71 79, loreks@telemach.net. Open 07:00 - 02:00,
Fri 07:00 - 03:00, Sat 08:00 - 03:00, Sun 08:00 - 02:00.
PJA6ILGBXW
OLD CUP BAR
If you just want to grab a beer with friends and avoid the
tourist scene, this is an ideal meeting spot. A large chest-
nut tree droops over the terrace and shades against the
scorching sun in the summer time and the wind in the
winter. Theres always a vibrant atmosphere if you choose
to sit indoors, where you will nd groups of friends prop-
ping up the bar. They serve a selection of pub food: sand-
wiches, pizza and kebabs.QD-2, Cesta Svobode 8a. Open
06:30 - 24:00. PTJAR6LGB
UNION BAR 99
Union Bar 99 is a popular hangout on warm summer
nights. Frequently enough, a grill is prepared up on the
terrace amongst crowds of locals, hotel guests and tour-
ists. All major sporting events are shown on the big screen
and theres free WiFi. The dcor of the interior is charm-
ing and the service top-notch. For the morning after they
even serve breakfast.QE-2, Ljubljanska 11, tel. +386
(0)45 78 01 19/+386 (0)41 341 494, info@union-bled.
com, www.union-bled.com. Open 08:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat
08:00 - 01:00, Sun 10:00 - 24:00. JRLGB
Sightseeing Sightseeing
Take a walk on Bleds wild side, photo by Dohtar / Shutterstock
Much more than just the iconic castle and island, Bled and
the surrounding mountains oer a multitude to see and do.
Visit the helpful tourist oce for more detailed information
on what is available during your stay.
ESSENTIAL BLED
BLED CASTLE
The oldest castle in Slovenia as well as the one with argu-
ably the most dramatic location, Bled Castle is yet another
iconic feature of this glorious destination. Perched protec-
tively some 120m above the lake, the rst written mention
of it dates all the way back to 1011, when the German King
Henry II ceded it to the Bishops of Brixen. It has seen many
changes of ownership since, and has thus become some-
thing of a huge mish-mash of architectural styles. The
walls are Romanesque, where as the majority of the other
buildings making up the castle hail from the Renaissance.
The grounds are made up of two courtyards, connected
by a staircase.
Aside from the predictably gob smacking views on oer,
the castle also has a number of attractions to entice longer
visitors, among them a small museum showing the history
of Bled from the beginning of time to the present day, a
wine cellar, an old printing press, a castle forge, souvenir
shop and a restaurant. The castle is reached via a fairly
steep 15-minute climb. Forming the most dramatic of
backdrops to the life arming romance of the lake, Bled
Castle is a must-visit.QC-2, tel. +386 (0)4 572 97 82, fax
+386 (0)4 572 97 72, blejski.grad@zkbled.si, www.
blejski-grad.si. Open 08:00-21:00 Jun-Aug, 08:00-20:00
Apr-Jun & Sep-Nov, 08:00-18:00 Nov-Mar. Admission
9/7/4.50 for adults/students/children, with discounts
for groups of 10 or more.
IGLICA WATERFALL
One of the jewels of Bleds surrounding nature, Iglica wa-
terfall is a 25m plume of water that plunges down a lime-
stone rock face, many of which nearby serve as climbing
walls. Here on the Suha stream, the fall is best admired in
spring, a wooden stairway allowing access to the great
surrounding views on the clitop. Signposted from the vil-
lage of Bohinjska Bela, south east of Bled lake by the road
to Bohinj.QBohinjska Bela.
LAKE BLED
Bleds most famous feature is the crystal-clear lake which
has an island crowned by the 55-metre tower of the Ba-
roque Church of the Assumption. The backdrop of moun-
tains makes this view especially irresistible. Visitors can
take a boat tour to the island (12) on characteristic pletna
boats, which include half an hour to wander around or visit
the church. Boats leave from the Health Park, at Hotel Park
and at the rowing centre.
CHURCHES
ST MARTINS CHURCH
A white neo-Gothic beauty erected in 1905, St Martins
was designed by same architect who was responsible for
Viennas town hall, and it shows in the sheer verticality of
the building. The church is surrounded by the walls which
had to protect the earlier church from Ottoman incur-
sions, and the interior has frescoes from the late 1930s.
QRiklijeva 26, www.zupnija-bled.si.
HIKING
Bled is an ideal starting point for walking, the most aes-
thetically pleasing places being Pokljuka and Vintgar
gorge. The peaks rising above the former, including Triglav,
are also within striking distance for serious hikers. Marked
trails in the vicinity are numerous, and will ensure the ex-
ploratory satisfaction of most people, in all seasons.
For further details about tours and marked trails, including
maps, visit the Tourist Information Centre.
MUSEUMS & GALLERIES
CATBRIYUR PORCELAIN
Handcrafted by Slovene couple Katja and Jure Bricman,
Catbriyur porcelain has long been recognised as some
of the nest functional art pieces to be produced in the
country. While strictly speaking their premises in Bled are
more a shop than a gallery, that doesnt mean you cant
stop by to browse - just be careful you dont break any-
thing, as many of the items are in the price on request
range. Distinguished by their irregular shapes and design,
each cup, plate, tray, clock and piece of jewellery is liter-
ally one of kind, although there are several dierent series
executed in the same motifs and styles. If our recommen-
dation is not enough for you, proud owners of Catbriyur
porcelain include Vladimir Putin, the King of Norway and
most famously Her Majesty Queen Elisabeth II, who was
presented an exclusive gold-encrusted Royal Collection
tea set during her ocial state visit to Slovenia a few
years ago. If you were interested in making a purchase by
which to remember your time in the Slovenian Alps, the
most appropriate item is perhaps the small bell that was
inspired by Bleds own Legend of the Sunken Bell.QCesta
Svobode 18, tel. +386 (0)4 574 39 17, catbriyur.bled@
gmail.com, www.catbriyur.ne. Open 10:00 - 13:00 &
15:00-18:00.
ETNOGALERIJA PLETNA
Alongside the accommodation of the same name, Etno
Galerija Pletna is full to bursting with all manner of home-
made and traditional products, arts and crafts. The Etno
Galerija is an interesting spot to pop your head into as
you enjoy a lazy stroll around this stunning body of wa-
TOURIST INFORMATION
BLED TOURIST BOARD QD-2, Cesta Svobode 11,
tel. +386 (0)4 578 05 00, fax +386 (0)4 578 05 01,
info@dzt.bled.si, www.bled.si.
BLED TOURS
Bleds top travel agency are the people to visit for all of
your travel and tourism related needs. They specialise
in tours and excursions in and around Bled, Bohinj and
Kranjska Gora, but can also make arrangements for
guided tours to any other location in Slovenia or even
abroad, and arrange business conferences, meetings
and weddings as well. If you need accommodation
they have a directory of some 70 private apartments
of all price ranges to choose from.QE-2, Ljubljan-
ska 19, tel. +386 (0)4 574 35 20/+386 (0)31 321 100,
agency@bledtours.si, www.bledtours.si.
PLETNA TOURS
In our humble opinion there is no better way than to
get to Bled Island than via the traditional Pletna boat.
The vessel most associated with the lake and island, its
origins go back to the 1590s. A at-bottom wooden
boat with a pointed bow and widened stern, it can
transport as many as 20 people from shore to island
at one time. It also oers it name to a group providing
tours of the region. For 65 you get a three hour guid-
ed tour of the town and the lake, (plus 12 transport
costs to the island via a Pletna boat of course). Also
on oer are guided tours of Bled and nearby Bohinj,
for 120. Head to the website for more information.
Qtel. +386 (0)41 94 81 68, pletna@siol.net, www.
pletna.si.
TIC BLED QD-3, Cesta svobode 10, tel. +386
(0)4574 11 22, fax +386 (0)4574 15 55, tdbled@
telemach.net, www.bled.si.
ter. QCesta Svobode 37, tel./fax +386 (0)45 74 37 02,
pletna@bled.net, www.pletna.com.
GALLERY 14
A superb gallery space for Bled, from the Studio erne
outt in Ljubljana. With exhibition activities in contem-
porary art and sculpture, plus high quality artistic equip-
ment and materials, its a welcome addition to the cultural
scene in town. The house in which the gallery resides,
on Preernova Cesta, bequeaths the heritage of one es-
pecially well known erne, namely Josef, an ancestor of
the modern gallery owning family whose saddle-making
was known all the way to Vienna. There are two spaces
here, 30m2 each, with temporary and permanent exhi-
bitions of a diverse range of Slovene and foreign artists
works.QPreernova 14, tel. +386 (0)4 574 34 63, info@
studiocerne.si, www.studiocerne.si. Open Thu, Fri
15:00 - 19:00, Sat 09.00 - 13:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed.
slovenia.inyourpocket.com
Sightseeing
BLED ISLAND
Of the many aesthetic wonders of Lake Bled, it is Bled Is-
land (Blejski Otok) that is without doubt the most iconic.
It adorns the cover of this and pretty much every other
guide dedicated to Bled, and a large chunk of guides for
the entire country, and with good reason. It is the only
true island in the entire country after all. It certainly isnt
huge, but the phrase small but perfectly formed has
never felt more apt. It is only accessible by boat, but we
truly cant think of any mode of transport wed rather use
to reach it.
The Church of the Mother of the God on the Lake
(mouthy name, but rather poetic in Slovene) dominates
the landscape, both visually and culturally. First men-
tioned in the 12th century, it has a history that stretches
way before that and has undergone many renovations
since. Thousands head to ring its Wishing Bell annually,
which is purported to bring luck to those that ring it. USA
Today included it in its list of the most beautiful churches
in the world, for quite obvious reasons.
Elsewhere on the island we nd a Bell Tower with a re-
newed Pendulum Clock at the top, not a spark of electric-
ity in sight. There is also an exhibition house showcasing
some of the nest Slovene art from past and present, as
well as a fascinating permanent exhibition focused on
traditional dress. Wrap up your visit by tasting Potica, a
sort of nut roll made with all sorts of llings, in the attrac-
tive caf before returning to the shore.
BELL TOWER AND PENDULUM CLOCK
Separate from the church itself, the Bell Tower is 52m
high and contains one large and two small bells. Every
15 minutes the bells chime to bring in the quarter, mean-
ing there are plenty of opportunities to see the clock in
action. Two opposite winding staircases lead the way
up and down. The way up is punctuated with infor-
mation boards following the history of apparatus used
to tell time, from using the position of the sun all the
way through to the atomic clock. On the journey down
however, these signs contain biblical verses made to en-
courage appreciation of how little time we have on this
planet, and the importance of using it wisely. Some of
them may be a little bleak, but the message is undeni-
ably positive and clear.
POTICA
When it comes to sweets, Bled is rst and foremost
known for its famous cream cakes, which originated
here in the 1950s. But in Slovenia as a whole, the nut
roll cake known as potica is the traditional dessert
of choice during most holidays and other important
events. Regardless of the holiday, no Slovene celebra-
tion is complete without Potica. A traditional pastry-
based nut roll baked in a bread oven using a round
baking dish made of clay called a Potinica, each re-
gion does it slightly dierently keeping this centuries
old dessert fresh. Walnut potica is the most common
but the truth is that the number of llings is left up
entirely to the imagination of the person baking it.
Everything from hazelnut to chocolate to even sau-
sage and sh, there really are no limits to what can be
put inside. The variety doesnt end there, as it can be
eaten hot or cold, with cutlery or (obviously the best
option) with your hands. Baking demonstrations and
packages are available in the caf on Bled Island. Email
ahead to organize.QBled Island, tel. +386 (0)4 576 79
01, info@blejskiotok.si, www.blejskiotok.si. Open
09:00-16:00 (Nov-Mar), 09:00-18:00 (Apr & Oct),
09:00-19:00 (May-Sept).
SALES GALLERY & CAF
You didnt think Bled Island would go without a souvenir
shop did you? The shop doubles (or triples, more accu-
rately) with a caf and a gallery showcasing the artistic
works of many Slovene artists including Miha Male. The
shop is choc-full of traditional handicrafts and local prod-
ucts, twisted and turned into modern souvenirs. Nice t-
shirts too. Far from the tacky trap it could be, it somehow
manages to add an element of class to the tourist souvenir
shop, which is an impressive feat. The caf is the perfect
place to relax before getting the boat back to shore. Relax
with a coee and a slice of potica, taking in your last views
of the lake from the island before heading back.
THE CHURCH OF THE MOTHER OF GOD ON
THE LAKE The most iconic feature of the most iconic
attraction in the country, it is the image of the church on
the island that attracts so many curious visitors to Bled
and Slovenia every single year. Whilst the location of it
alone is reason enough to visit, the church itself is full
of history and legend. It started life as a small wooden
chapel, before being expanded into a church and reno-
vated on many occasions through the centuries. A most
understated elegance underpins the interior, with the
Stations of the Cross predominantly showcased. The
golden baroque altar juxtaposes gracefully with the
faded frescoes on either side of it.
It is the Wishing Bell that gets the most attention however,
and the story of its coming to be is a curious mix of fact and
ction. A lady, who lived at Bled Castle, had the bell made
from her jewellery after the violent death of her husband.
However, as the bell was being rowed out to the island
from the shore, a storm hit causing the boat and all its con-
tents (both human and decorative) to sink to the bottom of
the lake. She was devastated, so she moved to Rome and
took up life in a convent. When she died, the Pope was so
devastated that he ordered the building of another bell to
be transported to Bled. Now, the story, we arent sure, but
it is a fact that the bell that rings out from the island today
was made in Rome. Purported to give luck to those who
ring it, it is a must-do when on the island.
www.blejskiotok.si
info@blejskiotok.si
T: +386 4 576 79 79
CHURCH OF THE MOTHER OF GOD ON
THE LAKE
VIEW BELL TOWER
with restored pendulum clock
WEDDINGS
in the church on Bled Island
SALES GALLERY
with Slovenian art and handicraft
POTICA
delicious Slovenian traditional pastry
Blejski otok
Slovenija
Blejski otok
Slovenija
Blejski otok
Slovenija
Sports & Activities Sightseeing
Known primarily for the beauty of its lake, castle and
island-bound church, Bled also ofers a wealth of sports
opportunities for professionals, enthusiasts and fami-
lies. For taking in the natural sights of the area there
are numerous walking, hiking, cycling and horseback
riding opportunities, while a birds eye view can be had
by paragliding or ballooning. In addition, there are fne
facilities for golf, mini golf, beach volleyball and tennis.
Centred around a lake and rivers, there are also many
water sports to choose from, including swimming, raft-
ing, fshing, rowing and for those whod like to get a bit
more extreme diving, canyoning and hydrospeed. Sur-
rounded by the Alps, sports such as skiing, snowshoe-
ing, sledding, ice skating and ice climbing are popular
during the winter months. And last but not least, for
technophiles there is ample opportunity to hunt for
treasure using so-called geocaching apps on your
smartphone or other GPS-enable devices.
GOLF
BLED GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB
Situated only 4km from the town centre, Bled Golf Course
rst opened in 1937 and was redesigned by famous golf
architect Donald Harradine in 1972. Its the oldest Slove-
nian golf course and is said to be one of the most beautiful
NATURAL ATTRACTIONS
BLEJSKI VINTGAR (VINTGAR GORGE)
One of the most spectacular natural sights in Slovenia is
hidden away just north of Gorje and only 4km from Bled.
The Vintgar Gorge, known locally as Soteska Vintgar or
Blejski Vintgar, was during the last ice age when glacial
movements forced the crystalline waters of the Radovna
river to the northeast, where it was able to slowly cut its
way through the limestone terrain, creating sheer can-
yon walls reaching heights of up to 100m.
Only ocially discovered in 1891, the gorges natural
beauty was immediately recognised and work com-
menced on the construction of a wooden walkway along
its 1.6km length, opening to the public only two years
later on 26 August 1893. The walkway has been reno-
vated several times over the past century, but still looks
very much the way it did when it rst opened. Nowa-
days it leads awe-inspired visitors past rapids, pools and
overgrown rocky crags to the 16m-high um waterfall at
the gorges furthest end, which is said to be the highest
uvial waterfall in all of Slovenia. The short but breath-
taking trek is denitely a must-do for anyone who vis-
its the region!Qwww.vintgar.si. Open April - October
08:00-19:00.
MEAKLA
Meakla is a long undulating plateau about 15 km long,
in the foothills of the Julian Alps. It is mostly covered with
spruce and beech trees. There are many pastures and clear
streams on the plateau. Meakla is part of Triglav National
Park, and can be easily accessed by forest road in Spodnje
Gorje. The main attraction is a natural bridge and hidden
partisan hospital.
POKLJUKA CANYON
Besides the famous Vintgar gorge you can visit a beauti-
ful canyon near Krnica. The long and dramatic void is the
remainder of the Ribice stream, carved during the re-
treat of glaciers into limestone rock. It is the largest fossil
canyon in Slovenia. Here we also nd some karst features,
such as a natural bridge, overhanging rocks and caves. The
most famous is the Pokljuka gorge. Last century a narrow
footbridge was built at the canyons narrowest point and
subsequently named after a Serbian prince.
SYMBOLS OF BLED
EDUCATIONAL BEEHOUSE
Get a taste for good healthy Slovenian honey whilst in Bled,
but not before youve earned it! By taking a one to two hour
tour, you will see about 50 bee families at work (providing
you come in season), admire the traditional hand-painted
beehive panels, and learn and observe the life of the diligently
renowned Carniolan bee. Only then can you taste and buy the
produced golden stu. Beehive panel painting workshops
take place under a typical Slovene kozolec (hayrack), and
children can delight in natural science days. Beekeeper Bla
Ambroi will be your guide, with up to 20-30 visitors hosted
at any one time. Located just south of Bled, in the village of
Selo pri Bledu.QSelo pri Bledu, tel. +386 (0)41 65 71 20/+386
(0)41 22 74 07, www.kralov-med.si.
FIJAKER COACHMEN
Proud of their tradition, the Bled coachmen oer their ser-
vices of horse drawn carriage transport every day of the
year. Treat your loved one to a ride, be it rain or shine, their
special umbrellas will stave o the elements should the lat-
ter threaten to dampen ones spirits. Tradition can be seen
most of all in the Fijaker uniform, complete with a jacket
adorned of ruby red Gorenjska carnations, their top hats
bouncing along as they whisk you almost anywhere in Bled
lakes vicinity or further aeld, and even wait for a romantic
drink or meal to be enjoyed, to then take you back. Turn up
at their station in front of Festival Hall (Festivalna dvorana)
in the summer months to nd them waiting, in winter but
their sign and contact details, on which you can also buy a
gift voucher for the said loved one.Qtel. +386 (0)41 69 34
41/+386 (0)31 31 68 02, www.fjaker-bled.si.
PLETNA BOATS
Theres a local saying, whereby one hasnt really visited
Bled without taking a ride in one of its traditional Pletna
boats. Thought to have perhaps derived from the German
plateboot, meaning at bottomed boat, the Pletna has
a history stretching back to the end of the 16th century.
Since then the respected profession of oarsman has been
handed down through generations, with a special tech-
nique of standing rowing mastered by only a few. So board
the wooden vessel at its widened stern, its pointed bow
aimed at the other side of the turquoise waters, or squarely
at the island, and be carried across, protected from the sun
or rain by its colourful awning. The Pletna piers are located
under Spa Park, the Park Hotel Bled caf in Mlino and in
Velika Zaka.Qtel. +386 (0)41 427 155, tdbled@telemach.
net, www.td-bled.si. Open Nov - Mar 08:00-18:00, Sun
& holidays 08:00-13:00; April - June & Sept - Oct 08:00-
19:00, Sun & holidays 11:00-17:00; Jul - Aug 08:00-21:00,
Sun & holidays 10:00-18:00. Tickets 12.
Its 99 steps to reach the church on Bled Island, photo by Michele
Aleri / Shutterstock
HIKING IN THE HILLS
ABOVE THE LAKE
Straa
A leisurely walk to the top, or chairlift, allows visitors to
enjoy views of the lake from the south-east, the castle
and also Mt. Stol in the middle distance. Both summer
and winter activities are possible here, it being the
best place to ski in Bled itself.
Osojnica
Perhaps the best known spot for Bleds burgeoning
portfolio of photography, especially by the profes-
sionals, Osojnica is a 45-minute trek on a steep forest
path, rising rst to a peak of 685m (Mala Osojnica) then
to 756m (Velika Osojnica), oering views of the main
mountain ranges to the east, and the whole Gorenjska
plain.
Ojstrica
The narrow peaked mountain by name is a relatively
easy walk from Camping Bled (turn left if coming from
town), the said peak of which oering really good
views of the lake and campsite.
Hit the links at Bled Golf Course, photo by Marko5 / Shutterstock
Sports & Activities Sports & Activities
golf courses in central Europe. The green fees are not the
cheapest in the country, but one look at the stunning vis-
tas and the impressive course itself, and most players will
consider it well worth it. There is both an 18-hole course
and 9-hole short course, and real enthusiasts can combine
them for a 27 holes of golng bliss in a single day.QVrba
37a, tel. +386 (0)1 200 99 01, info@golfbled.si, www.
golfbled.si. 18 holes 60/70 on weekdays/at the week-
end, 9 holes 35. Discount packages are available for
weekend stays, see the website for more info.
MINI GOLF
With 3628 square metres of area, 18 holes and 228 metres
of total length this is one of the largest classic mini golf
playgrounds in Europe! A host of competitions are held
here, but most of all miniature golf, as we all know, is about
swinging your club in anger at a sibling opponent. Dont
SWIMMING
PUBLIC LIDO
Just below Bleds castle rock, a grassy beach awaits
those that want to go swimming in beautiful Bled lake.
The swimming area is protected and kept clean for
the safety of guests, and you can also rent a sun-bed,
umbrella or mat for a small fee, or you can just bring
your own and hide under the shade of the trees along
the beach. A water slide on the premises is perfect for
those coming with kids.QA-3, Veslaka Promenada
1, tel. +386 (0)4 578 05 28, turizem@ibled.si, www.
kopalisce-bled.si.
WELLNESS
AYURVEDA CENTRE KOMPAS BLED
The modern world can be an extremely stressful place.
We are the ambitious generation, and coming to terms
with pressures, both internal and external, is taxing now
and then. Where better to de-stress than in the recently
opened Ayurveda Center at the beautiful Kompas Ho-
tel. Focused on traditional Indian medicine, the singular
focus is on balancing the body, the mind and the spirit
whilst reducing stress to its minimal level. Multi-day
therapeutic programs are available, as well as programs
for detoxication and much more. Call the Kompas Ho-
tel for more info.QCankarjeva 2, tel. +386 (0)4 620 51
00, reservations@kompas-lovec.com, www.kompas-
lovec.com.
PUBLIC LIDO
www.kopalisce-bled.si
SUMMER TOBOGGANING
at Straa Bled
www.straza-bled.si
info@ibled.si
ADVENTURE PARK
A family adventure park with suspended footbridges,
monkey bars, suspension bridges, carabiners and zip
cords, Adventure Park (or Pustolovksi Park in Slovene)
is suitably situated in a forest. The 65 attractions and
challenges are both professionally built to EU stan-
dards and constructed with respect for the natural
surroundings. Youll not nd any tubular painted steel
here, just logs, ropes and the odd steel cable to aid
the adrenaline-lled descent from your suspended
activities (between one and eight metres high). Popu-
lar with families, adults and groups alike; there are ve
dierently coloured climbing tracks of varying di-
culty. A brief safety course and all equipment are pro-
vided before entrance to the park. Located at the top
of Straa ski centre.QStraa, tel. +386 (0)31 76 16 61,
info@pustolovski-park-bled.si, www.pustolovski-
park-bled.si. 7 April - 22 June Saturday, Sunday and
public holidays from 11:00-18:00
WELLNESS ESSENSE BLED
Lake Bled is possibly the ultimate place for relaxation,
and there isnt a better option to indulge in this than
Wellness Essense Bled. Located in the Penzion Alp
guesthouse, a traditional Alpine pension itself, a wide
range of treatments are available to suit all desires. Of
particular interest is the Hay Sauna, a unique combina-
tion of traditional sauna and aroma-therapy with the
added leisure of the countryside. It is a strangely enjoy-
able experience that we wholeheartedly recommend.
Reservation is necessary for all services available.QCan-
karjeva 20c, tel. +386 (0)4 5767 450, info@essense.si,
www.essense.si.
IVA WELLNESS
iva means several things in Slovenian, one of them be-
ing lively - and thats just how youll feel after a full body
and soul solution at this wellness centre. With a holistic
approach to physical rejuvenation, theres a wide range
of massage available, body and facial treatments, plus a
variety of saunas, and a plethora of water based delights
to be lapped up; two oors of thermal pools, and of
course a whirlpool. Well if it was good enough for Arnold
Rikli!QD-3, Cankarjeva 4, tel. +386 (0)4 579 17 02, ziva@
hotelibled.com, www.wellness-ziva.com. Open 07:00 -
21:00, Fri, Sat 07:00 - 23:00. PTAULG
forget to bring good sportsmanship with your competi-
tive spirit!QD-2/3, Cesta Svobode 15, tel. +386 (0)41 840
079. Open 09:30-23:00 April to October.
straa Hill
SUMMER TOBOGGANING
If youd like to spice up your stay in Bled, then consider a
visit to Straa Hill, which oers remarkable views and fa-
vourite recreational ground, only a few minutes walk from
the centre of Bled. From spring to autumn you can enjoy
in adrenaline-drenched sledding (ie summer toboggan-
ing). The 520m track has an elevation dierence of 131m,
with sleds reaching speeds of up to 40 km/h - a real roller-
coaster ride! A chairlift takes you on the top of the hill,
and you can also take a relaxing walk on one of the many
marked pathways or do some serious exercise along the
Rikli Fitness Trail.QD-3, Pod Strao, tel. +386 (0)4 578 05
30/+386 (0)31 330 647, turizem@ibled.si, www.straza-
bled.si. Open 10:00-20:00 every day from 22 June to 1
Sept, 11:00-18:00 Sat-Sun only from 27 April to 21 June
and in Sept, and 11:00-17:00 Sat-Sun only in Oct. 5-14. Bled boasts countless family-friendly activities
HOTEL LISTINGS POLICY
Hotels are listed strictly by price band, and then by
alphabetical order within that band. The price band
refers to the rack rate for a double room.
Bled provides plenty of choice for those wishing to
make more than a day out of their visit to the town. As
well as the hotel listings here, the tourist information
advisors can provide the visitor with plenty of advice on
the best accommodation options available. Be warned
though that during the peak summer and winter sea-
sons rooms fll up fast.
CREAM OF THE CROP
GRAND HOTEL TOPLICE
Complete with its legendary thermal swimming pool that
provides more than enough of a reason to stay here any-
way, Toplices rather stark exterior betrays wealth of com-
fort and style inside its walls. The rooms and suites are all
well-designed, some of them exceedingly elegant, and all
coming with en suite bathrooms, cable television, mini-
bars and internet access. The lakeside location is arguably
the best in Bled, with further attractions including three
restaurants plus two bars, as well as excellent wellness
and conference facilities.QD-3, Cesta Svobode 12, tel.
+386 (0)4 579 10 00, ghtoplice@hotelibled.com, www.
sava-hotels-resorts.com. 87 rooms (singles 140-180,
doubles 158-220, suites 252-600). PHARU
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UPMARKET
BEST WESTERN PREMIER HOTEL LOVEC
Standing for over 100 years now, Hotel Lovec brings a
unique hominess to the Bled accommodation table. Its ar-
chitecture is informed and inuenced by its surroundings,
leaving it in complete harmony with the beauty it nds
itself in. The on-site wellness centre makes Lovec the very
denition of relaxation, a peaceful utopia in the most gor-
geous of surroundings. The grill restaurant is well worth
nipping into as well. Hotel Lovec truly is the complete
package.QD-3, Ljubljanska 6, tel. +386 (0)4 620 41 00,
info@lovechotel.com, www.lovechotel.com. 60 rooms
from 114. PHAR6ULGKDXCW
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GARDEN VILLAGE RESORT
Its a point thats been rammed home to the point of fa-
tigue, but Bled is a beautiful place, the hotels are beau-
tiful, everything is beautiful. For somewhere to stand
out it must truly be special, and were still not sure if the
term special really does Garden Village Resort justice at
all. Opening this in the summer of 2014, its a romantics
dream. The simple exteriors mask the most stylish in-
teriors in this dream-like accommodation. Tree houses,
a garden restaurant with a small stream dissecting it, it
even provides a studio apartment with a Jacuzzi in the
living room.QCesta Gorenjskega Odreda 16, tel. +386
(0)41 61 63 02, info@gardenvillagebled.com, www.
gardenvillagebled.com.
GOLF
A smidgen up the hill from the lake in a secluded area of
trees, the almost pagoda-looking Hotel Golfs reputation
as a haven of tranquillity is clearly warranted. The cool blue
and cream rooms feature en suite facilities with either bath
or shower, cable television and balconies, some with ex-
cellent views of the lake and mountains. Four kilometres
from the superb 18-hole golf course, other treats include
good wellness facilities, conference rooms and a mag-
nicent indoor swimming pool.QD-3, Cankarjeva 4, tel.
+386 (0)45 79 17 00, hotelgolf@hotelibled.com, www.
sava-hotels-resorts.com. 150 rooms (singles 125-165,
doubles 139-190, suites 185-265). PTHAR
LGKDXCW hhhh
KOMPAS
We cant resist a panoramic terrace in the summer, with
views looking over the lake and the mountains in the dis-
tance. In fact, we defy anyone to resist. Hotel Kompas of-
fers this in its most charming veranda, but that is just the
tip of this most luxurious iceberg. Built in an Alpine style
to compliment the environment in which it nds itself,
Kompas also has relaxation and tness centres for those
wanting to de-stress or exercise respectively. Biotherapy is
even on oer.QD-3, Cankarjeva 2, tel. +386 (0)4 620 51
00, info@kompashotel.com, www.kompashotel.com.
95 rooms (singles 104, doubles 119, suites 178).
PTHA6UFLGKDXCW hhhh
PARK HOTEL BLED
A huge waterside hotel from the golden age of Yugoslavia,
with splendid balconies, nicely appointed rooms all com-
ing with en suite facilities, an indoor heated pool and a
denite emphasis on wellness and tness in general. All
rooms overlooking the lake come with air conditioning,
plus theres a nice choice of bars and restaurants. The ho-
tel is famous for its kremnita cream cakes, which it has
now produced over 12 million of.QD-2/3, Cesta Svobode
15, tel. +386 (0)4 579 18 00, hotelpark@hotelibled.
com, www.sava-hotels-resorts.com. 217 rooms (sin-
gles 125-145, doubles 121-170, suites 230-250).
ARUFLGKDXCW hhhh
TRIGLAV
Situated on the less-developed western shore of the
lake, this recently renovated Bled mainstay has thankfully
managed to maintain the rustic charm and elegance you
would expect from a hundred-year old hotel located in
one of Slovenias most idyllic settings. As long as youre
not adverse to the colour yellow, its 22 cozy rooms and
excellent service are a great value, especially during the
low season. Just make sure to request a lake view. The
hotel also arranges a variety of activities and excursions,
from cooking workshops to horseback riding to day-long
steam train journeys through the Alps.QA-2, Kolod-
vorska 33, tel. +386 (0)45 75 26 10/+386 (0)31 300
097, fax +386 (0)45 75 26 11, info@hoteltriglavbled.si,
www.hoteltriglavbled.si. 22 rooms (singles 89-139,
doubles 109-259, suites 199-359). PTJA
RUIFLEGDW
Follow in the footsteps of Tito at the splendid Vila Bled
The Garden Village Resort is both Bleds newest and most unique accommodation option
Hotels Hotels
VILA ALICE
As far as rst impressions go, Vila Alice really couldnt make
a better one. A short walk from the lake and the bus sta-
tion, this century old house has been modernised in the
most adorable fashion and simply put is one of the pret-
tiest boutique hotels weve come across. Seven spacious
rooms ll the house, with the room named Fire being the
standout. The sta is multi-lingual and immensely helpful,
the breakfast is beautifully varied. Such attention to detail
is to be cherished.QD-2, Preernova 26, tel. +386 (0)40
231 303, fax +386 (0)4 574 30 50, info@vila-alice.com,
www.vila-alice.si. 7 rooms (singles 100, twins 160,
superior 240). PJHARLBDW
VILA BLED
Whilst the grand stairs leading up to an equally grand build-
ing may look a little daunting at rst, what is waiting at the
top is quite the treat. Josip Tito deemed it good enough to
act as his summer residence and many foreign dignitaries
were hosted here, such as Soviet leader Nikita Krushchev,
Indira Ghandi and even Kim Il Sung. Since opening as a ho-
tel in 1984, it has also had Prince Charles, Paul McCartney
and Eva Herzigova through its doors. Quite the list. Spa-
cious suites with elegant 1950s furnishing are the order of
the day, with a gorgeous restaurant and peaceful coee
room to boot.QB-4, Cesta Svobode 26, tel. +386 (0)4 575
37 10, vilabled@gov.si, www.vilabled.com. Open from
April till October. 32 rooms, 145-550 with breakfast.
HAR6LGKDW hhhh
VILA ISTRA
This grand 19th century villa has been transformed into a bou-
tique design hotel combining majestic old world style with
contemporary comforts. Located just across the road from
the lake, Vila Istras luxurious rooms are a romantic choice with
stunning views. Not just catering to love birds, the hotel is a
great option for families with kids sure to enjoy the in-room
3D TVs and Playstation gaming room. The villas garden caf
and restaurant is a great spot for a coee and/or sweet (per-
haps a kremnita), whilst innovative seasonal dishes highlight
the menu at lunch and dinner.QCesta Svobode 35, tel. +386
(0)59 0808 08, book@vila-istra.info, vila-istra.info.
MID-RANGE
ALP PENZION
A pension in traditional alpine style with a Wellness Centre
attached for which guests get a grand 50% discount, not to
mention free use of bikes, tennis courts and a garden grill. The
outside sauna and jacuzzi are perfect for relaxation with the
backdrop of the Julian Alps and Karavanke Mountain in the dis-
tance. Getting to the centre of town is about a 10 minute walk.
QE-4, Cankarjeva 20a, tel. +386 (0)45 74 16 14, fax +386
(0)45 74 45 90, bled@alp-penzion.com, www.alp-penzion.
com. 12 rooms (singles 45-70, doubles 68-98, suites 90-
140). TARULGBKW hhhh
JADRAN
The Garni Hotel Jadran, with its distinctive large balconies
entwined with thick green ivy, richly old-fashioned rooms
and architecturally pleasing structure is a gratifying choice
of accommodation, not to mention its location being close
to explore the beautiful surroundings Bled has to oer.
Breakfast is served in a deliberately retro-style parlour and
you can opt for dinner at its partner restaurant, the Panora-
ma.QD-3, Cesta Svobode 21, tel. +386 (0)4 579 13 65, fax
+386 (0)4 574 16 61, hoteljadran@hotelibled.com, www.
sava-hotels-resorts.com. 45 rooms (singles 81-91, dou-
bles 88-106). TJHA6ULBK hhh
JELOVICA
Located just a leisurely stroll through a park from the lake it-
self, Jelovica is a large and well established hotel with excellent
facilities. Rooms are well appointed, coming with en suite fa-
cilities, hair-dryers, cable television, balconies and safes. Com-
munal extras include a restaurant, bar, billiards club and indoor
swimming pool. Its grand size means that large groups are ca-
tered for with ease and theres plenty of parking (also for bus-
es).QD-2, Svobode 8, tel. +386 (0)45 79 60 00, fax +386 (0)4
579 60 10, jelovica@hotel-jelovica.si, www.hotel-jelovica.
si. 100 rooms (singles 47-77, doubles 30-70, apartments
95-140). AFLGKDXCW hhh
JEZERSKA HIA
This small family run inn oers homey accommodation amidst
the lush greenery of the Bled golf course (4km from Lake Bled)
- the perfect place for a peaceful retreat or, depending on how
you play, a relaxing golng weekend. The sta are very help-
ful, whilst rooms are comfortable and spacious with balconies
looking out to the mountains. Guests also receive an excellent
complementary breakfast and exclusive access to the immac-
ulate golf course. The inns restaurant serve very good local
specialities with decent value set menus.QBled Golf Course,
Alpska 114, tel. +386 (0)4 53 73 305/+386 (0)41 762 636,
lakehousebled@gmail.com, www.lake-house-bled.com. 3
rooms (doubles 60-90, triples 90-135).
PENZION MLINO
Nestled neatly on the coastline of the lake, Penzion Mlino
provides not only some of the most enchanting views of the
lake but also a great option for staying in Bled - guests can
even take advantage of free bike rentals. Thirteen simple
but elegantly furnished en suite rooms are complimented
by the restaurant, which serves some of the best venison
weve had. The restaurants also has a number of dierent
restaurant rooms to suit any and all moods.QD-3, Cesta
Svobode 45, tel. +386 (0)4 574 14 04, fax +386 (0)4 574
15 06, mlino@mlino.si, www.mlino.si. 13 rooms 25-35.
PENZION ZAKA
On the north side of the lake, Pension Zaka somehow
manages to give the feeling of being away from the tour-
ists even in the height of summer. Ten clean and spacious
rooms, all with free Wi-Fi, provide an excellent option for
a nights stay on the lake. There is also much in the way
of recreational activities available, with four tennis clay-
courts available between April and October. The restau-
rant serves good quality food too, rounding out this un-
derrated option.Qupanieva 9, tel. +386 (0)4 574 17
09, info@bled-zaka.com, www.bled-zaka.com.
SAVICA
The magnicently renovated Savica is one of Slovenias
more family-friendly hotels. With a grand total of 90 bright,
colourful rooms and 14 apartments complete with self-
contained kitchen units, facilities include cable television, en
suite facilities with a choice of either bath or shower, mini-
bars and balconies in every room. Attractions for families
travelling with their children include interconnected rooms,
two communal play areas and the occasional childrens
entertainment.QCankarjeva 6, tel. +386 (0)45 79 19 00,
hotelsavica@hotelibled.com, www.sava-hotels-resorts.
com. 104 rooms (singles 88-100, doubles 112-170,
suites 176-560). PTARFLKDC hhh
VILA ALICE
www.vila-alice.com
Vila Istra, Cesta Svobode 35, 4260 Bled
www.vila-istra.info
+386 59 08 08 08
book@vila-istra.info
HOTEL JELOVICA BLED d.o.o.
Cesta Svobode 8
SI4260 Bled, Slovenija, EU
Tel: +386-4-5796-000
jelovica@hotel-jelovica.si
www.hotel-jelovica.si
Hotels Hotels
TRST
A friendly, small hotel along the main high street oers
rooms with a view of the Bleds castle and lake, but its door-
step is almost crammed up onto its busy, noisy street. Due to
the hotels lack of services, it invites its guests for discounts
and special oers at its sister hotels: Grand Hotel Toplice for
its thermal pool and wellness programmes, and the nearby
Golf Hotel which provides a beauty centre, a sauna and
more besides.QD-3, Svobode 19, tel. +386 (0)4 579 12 86,
fax +386 (0)4 574 16 61, hoteltrst@hotelibled.com, www.
sava-hotels-resorts.com. 22 rooms (singles 71, doubles
88-106). TJA6UGKDC hhh
BUDGET
PLETNA ROOMS
A welcoming family-owned establishment in the small lake-
side village of Milno (only a mile away from the centre of Bled)
provides an enjoyable stay full of activities at your very door-
step. Directly in front of the pension, you will nd a perfect
spot for swimming out into the pristine lake on a summers
day or you can opt to hire a boat, also at the wharf to the lakes
little islet for just 12-17.QC-4, Cesta Svobode 37, tel. +386
(0)4 57 43 702/+386 (0)41 393 899, pletna@bled.net, www.
sloveniaholidays.com/sobe-pletna. (singles 40, doubles
65, triples 75). TJA6LW hhh
HOSTELS
HOSTEL HACIENDA
Situated in a quiet neighbourhood some 400m from
the lake, guest are able to enjoy the kind of peace and
relaxation that is more or less impossible to come by
in the always bustling centre of town. The house is sur-
rounded by a large garden where guests can freely play
volleyball, badminton or football, and inside theres a
party room downstairs with table football and darts.
Those staying three or more days can get free transfers
to the local bus and train stations, a 50% discount to
the airport and further discounts the Bled Tours travel
agency, which also runs the place.QE-4, Jelovka 25, tel.
+386 (0)31 321 100, agency@bledtours.si. Bed 17-21.
A6LBXW
TRAVELLERS HAVEN
This lovely 20th century house turned youth-hostel is per-
fect for the backpacker or budget traveller seeking a cheap
bunk-bed and a location that is close to the town, the lake
and a supermarket. Guests can make use of the common
room, kitchen, an internet-connected computer and a wash-
ing machine, and borrow bikes for free.QD-2, Riklijeva 1,
tel. +386 (0)41 396 545, travellers-haven@t-2.net, www.
travellers-haven.si. 6 rooms (dorms 19, doubles 48).
TOURIST FARMS
DOLINAR-KRAINER
Located midway between Bled and Bohinj, the Dolinar-
Krainer farmhouse is yet another beautiful option to ex-
The alpine valley of Bohinj is located in the stunning
Triglav National Park, and its surroundings are truly
unspoiled with the feeling of mass tourism is nowhere
to be found. People here are the denition of amiable,
attentive and courteous. This is where you come if you
want to be treated as a guest, not as a client. Everyone
here knows each other and theres a genuine sense
of camaraderie. Youll see them recommending each
others restaurants and hotels, instead of being overly
competitive and trying to hoard all the tourists. Not
once from all the places weve visited did we encounter
bad service, or good service that didnt seem genuine.
Just dont expect a lot of frills. Nightlife is practically
non-existent and overly luxurious hotels are hard to
nd. Come here to ski at one of several resorts in the
vicinity, with your family for an active holiday or with
your partner to enjoy the beauty of nature.
WHAT TO SEE
BOHINJ BOAT TOURS
What better way to see all that Lake Bohinj has to oer
than via a guided panoramic boat tour? The tours on oer
wont fail in providing inspiring scenery as you get to know
the lake from its very heart. A choice of two boats is on of-
fer (the Bohinj and the Zlatorog), with the rst departures
leaving at 10:00. There are two entry and exit points, one at
the pier in Ribev Laz and the second at camp Zlatorog in
the village of Ukanc. The nal boat from Ribev Laz leaves
at 17:30, with its equivalent in Ukanc departing 30 min-
utes later at 18:00. Whilst individuals could be able to turn
up for a spot due to the frequent departures, groups are
recommended to reserve in advance. The Bohinj boat has
a capacity of 52 people, and the Zlatorog 75. Qtel. +386
(0)4 57 47 590, +386 41 644 986, info@bohinj.si, info@
tourist-boat.eu, www.bohinj.si, www.tourist-boat.eu.
CHURCH OF ST JOHN THE BAPTIST
It may only be a small church, but bigger isnt always bet-
ter when it comes to these things. Containing some of the
oldest frescoes in the entire country, the church over a
stone bridge at Bohinj is a monument of national impor-
tance to say the least. Whilst it receives its rst ocial writ-
ten mention in the 15th century, it is almost certainly older
and it spans a number of dierent architectural periods
from the Romanesque all the way to Baroque. The church
is choc-full of fascination, whether it is the three wooden
altars made at various points of the 17th century, the Goth-
ic entryway or the baroque bell tower; there is something
of interest at almost every turn. It is the frescoes that steal
the show however, featuring among them a multi-layered
depiction of St Christopher and a representation of Cain
and Abel, complete with rare white devils. It takes a lot to
challenge the majesty of the lake for main event status,
but the Church of St John the Baptist comes dangerously
close.
Pristine Bohinj Lake is only a short drive from Bled
APARTMENTS
BLED
Bled Apartments l Ljubljanska cesta 32 l P.: +386 (0)41 667 661
www.bledapartment.si l bled.apartments@gmail.com
Bled Apartments l Ljubljanska cesta 32 l P.: +386 (0)41 667 661
www.bledapartment.si l bled.apartments@gmail.com
perience a taste of the old life, both metaphorically and
literally. In terms of accommodation, the farmhouse oers
singles, doubles and apartments for up to four - but most
tourist farmhouses also cater to lunch visitors by arrange-
ment. With their organic vegetable garden, goats cheese
making tradition, 100% organic juices, plus all manner
of domaa hrana, guests can recharge their souls, along
with their batteries through the numerous outdoor activi-
ties possible in the surroundings. Have you ever milked a
goat?QKupljenik 1A, tel. +386 (0)45 72 00 86/+386
(0)40 61 71 83, fax +386 (0)45 76 00 80, dolinar.lojze@
siol.net, www.dolinar-krainer.com.
MULEJ FARM
If a holiday on a farm or agritourism in general appeals
to you then this is one place to look into. The family
who run it are more than happy to let their guests get
involved in the everyday running of the farmhouse. Its
a complete wonderland for children, who can feed the
animals, milk the cows, horse-ride and play with the
kids that live on the premises. You can eat fresh organic
food that has been grown on the farm and guests are
welcome to purchase fresh milk, cheeses, marmalade,
jam and meats. A memorable experience for enjoying
agricultural life rst hand. The centre of Bled is a mile
walk away.QSelo pri Bledu 42, tel. +386 (0)45 74 46
17, info@mulej-bled.com, www.mulej-bled.com. 10
rooms (30 with breakfast, 40 with breakfast and
dinner). TLK
APARTMENTS
BLED APARTMENTS
Only 800m from the lake on the main road into town,
Bled Apartments oer self-catering accommodation just a
short walk away from everything. With studios and apart-
ments for up to four people, it has free on-site parking and
plenty of amenities just a stones throw away. Frequent last
minute special oers are available, including such gems as
a free boat ride out to the island on the lake. Free Wi-Fi
is oered throughout as well.QLjubljanska 32, tel. +386
(0)41 66 76 61, bled.apartments@gmail.com, www.
bledapartment.si.
Hotels Bohinj
LAKE BOHINJ (BOHINJSKO JEZERO)
Lake Bohinj, the jewel at the centre of this scattering of
villages in eastern Gorenjska, is absolutely breathtaking.
Come early in the morning out of season, just before
the sun has risen over the adjacent peaks to experience
its awe. Mist shrouds the banks of this still and at alpine
wonder. The pure quiet of this location really brings na-
ture to life once more. Only birdsong emanates from the
surrounding Eden, the splash of one of Bohinjs yellow-
bellied sh, or the crash of Savica waterfall in the middle
distance. Perhaps the only other detectable sound is the
ap of the wings of large birds in ight over this crystal
clear lake. By Bohinj you can be at one with yourself, and
peace is unavoidable.
MOSTNICA GORGE (KORITA MOSTNICE)
The numerous signs, typically carved in log planks, direct
you to this hidden gem. A tiny bridge tucked away in the
hills behind Stara Fuina and the lake connects two sides
of a deeply spectacular gorge. Take in a splendid view of
Triglav while the turquoise torrent swirls below.QStara
Fuina.
MOUNT TRIGLAV
Mount Triglav is the highest mountain in Slovenia, rising to
2864m in the centre of a national park of the same name.
The mountain is the symbol of Slovenia (it appears on the
coat of arms), and the countrys ag was own here on
June 26th, 1991, the day Slovenia declared independence
from Yugoslavia. The name, Triglav, means three-headed,
as it looks to have three peaks when seen from the Bohinj
valley.
The first recorded ascent of Triglav was made on 26
August 1778, by Luka Koroec, Matija Kos, tefan Roi
and Lovrenc Willomitzer, on the initiative of baron Si-
gismund Zois. Its height was first measured in 1808
by Valentin Stani. At the top of the mountain stands
a tiny metal structure, the Alja Tower. A storm shelter
for climbers, it is named after Jakob Alja, a priest who
bought the land at the Triglav peak for a single Austro-
Hungarian florin from the then municipality of Dovje
in 1895.
Triglav today attracts skiers in winter (to nearby Vogel)
and climbers in summer. The climb to the summit is not
all that hard, but it is long. Its a two-day ascent to the
top, and requires an overnight stay in a mountain cabin.
SAVICA WATERFALL (SLAP SAVICA)
Your time spent in Bohinj would not be complete without
a day trip to one of Slovenias greatest waterfalls. To reach
the waterfall its a roughly one hour walk up a thickly for-
ested slope. The waterfall itself drops a towering 78m into
a large water sink, which is located at an altitude of 500m.
An inspirational sight, it has often been written about by
well-known Slovenian poets and writers. A small entrance
fee is required at the entrance to the site.QU-7, Bohinjsko
jezero, tel. +386 (0)4 574 60 10, info@bohinj-info.com,
www.bohinj-info.com. Admission 1.10 - 2.50.
AROUND BOHINJ
POKLJUKA (GORELJEK)
Untouched, unspoiled and undiscovered: Pokljuka, the gla-
cier formed, limestone plateau in the Julian Alps is all of these
things. Being shrouded in spruce forest and sitting at 1000-
1400m, it is mysterious when the weather is cloudy, but on
sunny days its crystal clear and pristine in every way.
Launched as an alpine resort destination several years ago,
with a few brand new or renovated hotels opened since,
Pokljukas main attractions are the huge cross-country ski-
ing/running track and world cup hosting biathlon center.
There are moderate diculty hiking trails nearby, oering
fantastic views, and rare alpine plant species to be found in
and around the numerous bogs. Great for those wanting a
peaceful and/or active mountain escape, at high altitude.
VOGEL VIEW POINT
The Vogel Ski Centre is one of our favourite places to hit the
slopes mainly because of the incredible panoramic views of
the Julian Alps and Lake Bohinj, but you dont need to wait
for the snow to check out the views. In fact, without needing
to worry about snowboarders cutting you o and with the
mountainsides a bloom with wild owers the views are pos-
sibly even more spectacular. There are also countless oppor-
tunities for hiking and mountain biking including at a newly
opened bike park up on Vogel, making it a great year round
destination.QUkanc 6, tel. +386 (0)4 5729 712, info@vogel.
si, www.vogel.si. Cable car operates daily 08:00-18:00 (ev-
ery half an hour), in summer 07:00-19:00. Return tickets
13.50 adults, 9 children (family discounts available).
SPORTS & ACTIVITIES
FISHING
Whether you are a serious angler or just looking to sit in a
little boat all day drinking beer (yes, we learnt to sh in Aus-
tralia), Lake Bohinj and the surrounding rivers are the perfect
place to cast your line with the season running from 1 May
to 14 November. Standing beside the lake you can see large
schools of trout, the waters are also home to Charr, Chub
and Burbot, but catching them is another story. To start with
youll need a licence, gear and skill - or is shing all about
See stunning views of Triglav National Park on the cablecar ride
to Vogel
luck? Bohinj being somewhat of a Mecca for Slovene anglers,
the lake also hosts an annual international shing festival at
the end of September and beginning of October. For details
about shing in Bohinj including regulations, licence dealers,
gear rental shops and much more check www.bohinj.si or
contact one of the local tourist oces.
HIKING
Bohinj represents a compelling base camp and starting point
for hiking and mountaineering. Many sights are accessible to
those of all abilities, including families - the lake itself is a natural
paradise of serenity and stillness, then theres Savica waterfall,
Mostnica canyon and an entire realm of forests and pastures.
A panoramic view of the whole Bohinj valley can be had from
Rudnica hill and there are plenty of higher peaks in the sur-
rounding mountain range to keep altitude junkies fullled. For
more information and maps, visit the Tourist Information Centre
in Bohinjska Bistrica, or call +386 45 74 75 90.
Bohinj Bohinj
WELLNESS
AQUAPARK BOHINJ
Spend a fun-packed, wet and wild day at the AquaPark which
includes an extensive array of swimming pools, toboggan
slides, saunas, tness programmes, massages and cosmetic
services. An alternative choice in case of bad weather or to
let the kids run wild and free. Amenities include a restaurant,
snack bar and a cybercaf.QJ-6, Triglavska 17, tel. +386 (0)8
200 40 80, www.vodni-park-bohinj.si. Open 09:00 - 21:00.
TAUFLBKDCW
WHERE TO EAT
Most visitors to Bohinj end up eating the majority of
their meals at their hotel or guesthouse (which is usually
not a bad option), but for those who wish to venture out
Slovenian dishes for over 20 years now. The menu is fre-
quently freshened up, so dont be afraid to ask your wait-
er what the current specials are. The recommendation is
never less than great. A popular social point for the older
folks in the village, it also has a new terrace, new parking
and a great little games room for the kids.QSrednja Vas
76, tel. +386 (0)4 572 36 70/+386 (0)31 234 300. Open
10:00 - 23:00. Closed Tue. TULGB
GOSTILNA RUPA
Known amongst the locals as one of the best places to
eat between Bled and Lake Bohinj, we try to drop by the
family-run Rupa every time were in the area. The award-
winning kitchen turns out some truly tasty dishes - our
favourites include the deer medallions, grilled asparagus
with gorgonzola and the various schnitzels - and the
splendid views across the valley seem to make everything
taste even better. Located in the tiny village of Srednja Vas,
if you take the road between Jereka and Stara Fuina you
cant miss it.QSrednja Vas 87, tel. +386 (0)4 572 34 01,
www.apartmajikatrnjek.com/rupa. Open 10:00 - 24:00.
Closed Mon. TAILB
GOSTILNA TRIPI
A top dining destination for both locals and visitors, the
Tripi inn is conveniently located in the centre of Bohinjska
Bistrica, and during the warmer months the large summer
terrace is sure to be buzzing with happy diners. The menu
features a wide selection of hearty traditional Bohinj cui-
sine, such as veal stew with buckwheat and grilled home-
EVENTS
BOHINJ FISHING FESTIVAL
More of a venue for y shing enthusiasts to socialise,
share experiences and of course hone their crafts than a
rigidly organised event per se, nevertheless Bohinjs an-
nual shing festival has become an increasingly popular
event on the calendar, taking place each year at the end
of September and beginning of October. The programme
generally consists of days spent shing on one of several
rivers in or near Bohinj (namely the Sava Bohinjska, Soa,
Idrijca and Savinja), with nights devoted to various sh-
ing-related lms, videos, lectures and presentations, with
a large festive cultural event (ie party) on the nal night.
QHotel Tripi, Triglavska 13, www.bohinj.si.
BOHINJ HIKING FESTIVAL
Bohinj has been a popular destination for hikers for cen-
turies, so its no surprise that it is home to one of Slove-
nias largest hiking events - the so-called Days of Hiking.
Taking place in September and October each year, the
event aims to promote the areas rich hiking tradition
and potential as a world class hiking destination, and
is comprised of three parts: Recreation, which includes
guided tours along various paths, trails and themed
trips; Competition, with several sports events held in co-
operation with Slovene hiking societies; and Social ac-
tivities, including concerts, exhibitions, lectures and hik-
ing-related workshops.Qtel. +386 (0)4 574 75 90/+386
(0)31 557 124, info@bohinj.si, www.bohinj.si.
INTERNATIONAL ALPINE FLOWER FESTIVAL
The breathtaking beauty of Bohinjs alpine scenery is
well-known, with images of rocky peaks, rural farms,
abundant wildlife and of course the majestic lake itself
gracing the covers of various books, brochures and
family photo albums. However, the region also boasts
an incredible botanical richness, which has fascinated
visitors long before the railway brought a spike in tourist
arrivals more than a century ago. In fact, as far back as
the mid-18th century foreigners were penning odes to
Bohinjs diverse oral beauty, such as the scientist, trav-
eller and explorer Balthazar Hacquet, who was so in love
with the region that he not only wrote a three-volume
tome about the ora here, but also yearned to return
and spend the rest of his life as a shepherd.
In celebration of Bohinjs unique oral environment,
there is a two-week long International Flower Festival at
the end of May and beginning of June each year, with a
veritable bouquet of events and activities taking place
across the entire region, including exhibitions, guided
excursions, workshops, lectures, concerts, open-air mar-
kets and much more.QVarious Venues, www.bohinj.si.
KRAVJI BAL
The summer season in Slovenias alpine region ocially ends
in mid-September with one of the countrys most unique,
if lesser known, festivals: the annual Kravji Bal, or traditional
Cow Ball. Held in Bohinj since 1954, the event celebrates the
return of local shepherds and their cattle to the valley after a
summer of grazing high up in the pastures of the Julian Alps.
The festivities kick o on Friday evening with tours of
Bohinjs local dairies and regional museum, followed
by a night of folklore performances, village skits and
traditional music in the village of Stara Fuine in Triglav
National Park. Of course plenty of cheese and butter will
be on hand for tasting. On Sunday the main event takes
place in the village of Ukanc when the shepherds and
cows make their triumphant return, much to the delight
of the thousands of onlookers. The all-day party begins
in the morning with folk music, brass bands, an accor-
dion orchestra, folklore performances and all manner of
other costumed revellers competing for the eyes and
ears of the crowd.QBohinj Tourist Association, Ribev
Laz 48, tel. +386 (0)4 574 60 10, fax +386 (0)4 572 33
30, info@bohinj-info.com, kravjibal.bohinj-info.com.
TOURIST INFORMATION
BOHINJ GUEST CARD
If you are spending more than a couple of hours in Bohinj,
and lets face it you should be, then you might want to
consider getting a Bohinj Guest Card (family cards avail-
able). The card entitles visitors to great discounts at heaps
of places around Bohinj - save 15% o bicycle and canoe
hire; 50% o admission to the impressive Mostnica Korita;
get discounted food and drinks plus much much more.
You can also purchase a card that entitles free parking in
Bohinj.Qwww.bohinj.si.
TIC - BOHINJ TOURIST OFFICE
As well as oering helpful advice to visitors the Bo-
hinj Tourism Information Centre in Ribev Laz also of-
fers a wide range of local and Slovene souvenirs and
gifts - perhaps a miniature Zlatorog (mythical gold
horned buck) or a chunk of delicious Bohinj cheese.
QY-7, Ribev Laz 48, tel. +386 (0)4574 60 10, fax +386
(0)4572 33 30, info@bohinj-info.com, www.bohinj-
info.com. Open Mon-Sat 08:00-18:00, Sun & holidays
09:00-15:00. In July-Aug 08:00-20:00 and 08:00-
18:00. In Nov-Dec 09:00-17:00 and 09:00-15:00.
in search of sustenance there are a handful of eateries
in the villages around the lake, with the most options in
Ribev Laz at the lakes southwest corner.
DON ANDRO
A small part of Italy in the heart of the Julian Alps! Its a
pleasure to eat in this ne but simple restaurant where
they prepare large and satisfying pizzas of all varieties.
Be aware that a small pizza is actually sucient enough
for two to share, while a large is just ridiculous. The ser-
vice is top-notch with sta speaking excellent English.
Other dishes worth trying are the pastas, salads and deli-
cious deserts. Its a hit with both the locals and tourists
who are staying in the village of Ukanc for good reason.
QU-7, Ukanc 20, tel. +386 (0)5 995 57 87/+386 (0)41
600 056, info@donandro.si, www.donandro.si. Open
12:00 - 22:00. AVBXS
GOSTILNA MIHOVC
This authentic family-run restaurant has been serving up
delicious local fare for more than a century. Located in
the centre of Stara Fuina, the restaurant is housed in a
traditional old Gorenjska-style house, the interior has the
same rustic feeling - during winter grab a table besides
the central hearth whilst in summer the courtyard is the
place to be. The menu features a wide range of tasty local
specialties and the lunch menus are great value.QStara
Fuina 118, tel. +386 (0)5 922 67 86/+386 (0)51 899
111, info@gostilna-mihovc.si, www.gostilna-mihovc.
si. Open 09:00 - 23:00. TILB
GOSTILNA PRI HRVATU
Located in the pretty little village of Srednja Vas, this
long-running eatery has been preparing ne traditional
Bohinj Bohinj
Restaurant PRI HRVATU
100 years of tradion
Srednja vas v Bohinju 76
+ 386 (04) 572 36 70
+386 (0) 31 234 300
made sausages with black pudding and turnips, while
house specialties include the Tripi platter, turkey steak in
cream sauce with fruit and of course fresh Bohinj trout -
all of which are served in sizeable portions. Stop by from
12:00 to 16:00 for the good value daily set menus.QI-7,
Triglavska 13, tel. +386 (0)4 828 01 20, fax +386 (0)4 828
01 24, info@hotel-tripic.si, www.hotel-bohinj.si. Open
08:00 - 23:00. PTJAULEGBKX
GOSTIE DANICA
Located at the entrance to the camping grounds one might
dismiss this place as a tourist trap but looks can be deceiving
and behind Danicas modest appearance is a ne restaurant.
As well as an outstanding la carte menu, the restaurant
oers excellent daily specials and an wide range of Slovene
wines. To cap it o the service is friendly and the prices are
very reasonable - it makes for a very nice camp dinner in-
deed.QTriglavska 60, Bohinjska Bistrica, tel. +386 (0)4 575
16 19, info@camp-danica.si, www.camp-danica.si. Open
Wed-Sun 11:00-22:00. During summer 08:00-23:00 daily.
WHERE TO STAY
Along the lake and in the surrounding villages and moun-
tainside, Bohinj oers an impressive number of quality ac-
commodation options, from the 5-star Bohinj Park Eco Ho-
tel, to a hostel and countless smaller family places, as well
as two good campsites for those who want to stay as close
to nature as possible.
BOHINJ PARK ECO
Bohinj Park is the rst certied ECO hotel in Slovenia. During
the colder months there is now need to leave the premises at
all, with a complete resort at your very ngertips! The hotel of-
fers exceptional comfort in all its rooms and suites, as well as a
classy restaurant and bar. There are wellness and spa facilities
in the hotel itself or you can pop over to the AquaPark for even
more health programmes. Another fabulous amenity is a Bowl-
ing Centre which includes 5 professional bowling lanes - lots
of fun awaiting the whole family.QJ-6/7, Triglavska 17, Bohin-
jska Bistrica, tel. +386 (0)8 200 40 00, info@2864.si, www.
bohinj-park-hotel.si. 102 rooms, 8 suites. PTHAR
UIFLGBKCW hhhhh
DON ANDRO
The owners of this place are superbly friendly, and the
apartments come in a mix of traditional Slovene and al-
pine style elements topped up with completely modern
conveniences: satellite TV, wireless internet, a hairdryer,
a safe, fridge, microwave oven and a DVD player.QU-7,
Ukanc 20, tel. +386 (0)5 995 57 87/+386 (0)41 600 056,
apartmaji@donandro.si, www.donandro.si. 6 appart-
ments 45-75. RLBKW hhh
CAMP DANICA
The area around the mighty Triglav range is a fantastic
spot for camp lovers, being directly at the foot of nature
and adventure. The camp is found just outside Bohinjska
Bistrica and can accommodate over 800 guests in tents,
campers and caravans where you can nd a range of fas-
cinating on-site activities such as tennis, badminton, vol-
leyball, and table-tennis, and theres also a large sports hall
and aqua park the immediate vicinity. The camps excel-
lent set of amenities include a WiFi internet access point,
bars and restaurants, a supermarket, bakery, health centre,
pharmacy, laundry service, bank and post oce.QH-6,
Triglavska 60, tel. +386 (0)4 572 17 02, fax +386 (0)4
572 33 30, info@camp-danica.si, www.camp-danica.si.
6.4-12.6 per person. TA6ULEKXCW
JEZERO
This hotel scores top marks in location, being right up on
the banks of Lake Bohinj and within easy access to venues in
the town centre. The rooms are large with reasonably com-
fortable furnishings, and the views from the balconies come
no better than here. Its a good option for families, who can
make use of its indoor swimming pools, sauna, mini golf,
gym facilities, restaurant and caf bar. Overall, it strikes
a good balance between comfort and practicality.QY-7,
Ribev Laz 51, tel. +386 (0)4 572 91 00, fax +386 (0)4 572
90 39, hotel.jezero@cc-line.si, www.bohinj.si. 71 rooms
(singles 55-75, doubles 90-160, suites 120-160).
PTJHA6UFLEBKDXCW
hhhh
TRIPI
Providing warm and welcoming accommodation in
Bohinj for nearly four decades, the family-run Tripi
hotel can be found right in centre of Bohinjska Bistrica
and oers a total of 17 spacious rooms, including many
suites and family rooms. The friendly service and top-
notch facilities were recognised with the Golden Award
from the town in 2010, but even more meaningful are
the countless glowing comments left in their guest-
book by visitors from around the world - many of whom
become familiar faces on return trips. Additional oers
include a 20% discount at Bohinj Aquapark just across
the street and half-board at the excellent restaurant
for only 5.QI-7, Triglavska 13, Bohinjska Bistrica, tel.
+386 (0)4 828 01 20, info@hotel-tripic.si, www.hotel-
bohinj.si. 17 rooms (singles 47-62, doubles 64-96).
THGKW hhhh Even stormy days are beautiful in Bohinj
apartments and restaurant
+386 5 995 57 87 / Ukanc 20, 4265 Bohinjsko jezero
info@donandro.si / www.donandro.si
Bohinj Bohinj
Hotel Tripi, Triglavska cesta 13
4264 Bohinjska Bistrica
phone: +386 (0)4 828 0120
e-mail: info@hotel-tripic.si
www.hotel-bohinj.si
Hotel Tripi, run by family Tripi since 1986
Double rooms and duplex family rooms
Restaurant Tripi with pizzeria
Free internet, free big private parking
Fly-fshing info, hiking info, cycling info
Close to bus and train station
Open all year
Hotel Tripi, run by family Tripi since 1986
Double rooms and duplex family rooms
Restaurant Tripi with pizzeria
Free internet, free big private parking
Fly-fshing info, hiking info, cycling info
Close to bus and train station
Open all year
Radovljica, or Radolca as it is more afectionately known,
may not be as well-known as nearby Bled, but it boasts
a wide range of sights and activities, and also ofers
something that its more famous neighbour simply cant:
peace, quiet and a relaxing medieval town atmosphere.
An administrative centre since the 16th century, today
the municipality of Radovljica comprises some four doz-
en individual settlements and nearly 20,000 people. At
the centre of it all, and of most interest to tourists, is the
picturesque old town situated on a hilltop overlooking
the Deela plain to the east and the Sava river valley to
the west, with perfect views of the Julian Alps dominat-
ing the background in seemingly all directions.
The compact city centre is a veritable open air museum
of beautifully restored buildings, narrow sloping streets
and pleasant sidewalk cafs. The wider area is home to
countless hiking and cycling paths, some great accom-
modation options (including an award-winning camp-
site, a newly built tourist farm and several old town
guest houses), an airport ofering scenic fights and the
Bled-Lesce train station. All of this, plus the genuinely
welcoming spirit of its residents, should lead many
visitors to consider choosing Radolca as their base for
the region and making Bled a day trip, rather than vice
versa.
WHAT TO SEE
LINHART SQUARE (LINHARTOV TRG)
The towns main square is one of the best-preserved
medieval squares in Slovenia, and home to the majority
of its sights, the tourist information oce, several cafs
and even a couple of accommodation options. Named
for Anton Toma Linhart, an 18th-century playwright,
historian and Radovljicas most famous son, who among
other achievements penned the rst Slovene comedy, the
square is lined with historic buildings dating from the 15th
to 19th centuries and is a veritable open air museum of
dierent architectural styles. It was renovated and turned
into a pedestrian-only zone a couple of years ago.
RADOVLJICA MANSION
Originally built by the wealthy Counts of Ortenburg in the
middle of the 15th-century in what was then a small Ger-
man settlement, nowadays Radovljica Mansion dominates
the upper section of Linhart Square and is one of the cen-
tres of cultural life in the region. Expanded and renovated
over the centuries, much of its appearance dates from
the mid-17th century, while the High Baroque faade was
added in the early 18th century. In 2002, the premises were
completely restored and refurbished with locally sourced
materials, and it is now home to part of the permanent
collection of the Municipal Museum of Radovljica and the
Apiculture Museum. However, the mansions single most
famous element is likely the glorious Baroque Hall on the
Named for an 18th-century playwright, Linhart Square is one of the most picture-perfect public spaces in Slovenia
rst oor, with sweeping views of the mountains in the
distance it is a popular venues for weddings, concerts and
other events.QLinhartov Trg 1, tel. +386 (0)4 531 5112,
info@radolca.si, www.radolca.si.
RADOVLJICA MUNICIPALITY MUSEUMS
Under the auspices of the Institute of Radovljica Municipal-
ity Museums, there are ve separate historical museums. In
the centre of Radovljica, is the Radovljica Municipal Museum
with a permanent exhibition of the rst Slovene playwright,
historian and pedagogue Anton Toma Linhart (1756-1795),
the Museum of Apiculture which presents, among other
things, this unique tradition of Slovene folk culture, and the
ivec House Art Gallery with a rich collection of book illus-
trations and monthly exhibitions. Eleven kilometres south of
Radovljica, in Kropa, is the Iron Forging Museum, which rec-
reates the towns hundred-year-old tradition of iron work.
TOURIST INFORMATION
HOP-ON HOP-OFF RADOLCA
While the hop-on, hop-o tourist bus concept is a fa-
miliar sight in most of the worlds major cities, its not
often that you see such a thing in rural areas and small
towns. However, Radovljicas forward thinking tourist
oce has realised that this is the perfect way for visi-
tors to discover some of the regions hidden corners
and o the beaten path venues. Operating from the
beginning of July till the end of August, every Tues-
day the bus makes six circular journeys along a route
covering Bled, Radovljica, Begunje, Podvin and Brezje,
before returning to Bled via Radovljica, taking in all the
sights along the way, while on Thursdays the route
is Bled, Radovljica, Kamna Gorica and Kropa. Special
guided tours and other activities can also be arranged
in advance. For more info and full programme see
the website of Tourism Radovljica.QLinhartov Trg 9,
tel. +386 (0)4 531 51 12/+386 (0)40 460 675, info@
radolca.si, www.radolca.si. All day tickets are 5 for
adults, free for children under 10.
TIC RADOVLJICA
Radovljicas tourist information centre can be conve-
niently found near the main entrance to Linhart Square.
Located on the ground oor of the Mrak House, the of-
ce provides a whole host of information and services
for the town, municipality and entire Gorenjska region,
including accommodation, excursions, maps, tickets
and free internet. It also has a wide selection of typical
Slovene souvenirs, as well as products made under its
own brand, such as honey and homemade chocolate
pralines with traditional potica cake lling. Free guided
tours of the old town depart from here every Tues-
day throughout the year at 10:00.QLinhartov Trg 9,
tel. +386 (0)4 531 51 12/+386 (0)40 460 675, info@
radolca.si, www.radolca.si. Open every day 09:00-
18:00 in summer, 10:00-16:00 in winter.
And last but not least, some seven kilometres to the north of
Radovljica, in Begunje na Gorenjskem, one can visit the Mu-
seum of Hostages, a memorial to the victims of Nazi terror
during the Second World War. See the institutes English lan-
guage website for directions, opening times and admission
fees.QLinhartov Trg 1, tel. +386 (0)4 532 05 20, fax +386
(0)4 532 05 24, mro@siol. net, www.muzeji-radovljica.si.
AROUND RADOVLJICA
BEEKEEPING CENTRE (EBELARSKI RAZVOJNO-
IZOBRAEVALNI CENTER GORENJSKE)
If youre like most visitors to Slovenia you have a vague un-
derstanding that the country is famous for its traditional
beekeeping practices and of course its honey, and you
may have even seen some painted beehive panels for sale
in a gift shop, but youre not sure where to go to see a
comprehensive presentation of this fascinating eld - at
least this is the feeling we once had.
However, with the opening of the Beekeeping Centre (or
as it is ocially called, the Beekeeping Development and
Training Centre of Gorenjska) in Radovljica in 2012, all the
education, development, demonstration and promotional
activities related to beekeeping that you could possibly
imagine can be found in the same place. Learn about the
long history of beekeeping and see how honey gets from
the ower to the jar, and is nowadays used for a diverse
range of purposes in addition to sweetening your tea.
For most people the highlight of any visit will be tasting
the dierent varieties of honey, but many other activi-
ties, workshops and short trips can be arranged with ad-
vanced notice. Denitely one of the sweetest destinations
in Slovenia!QRona Dolina 50a, Lesce, tel. +386 (0)31
628 499, cebelarski.center@gmail.com, www.cricg.com.
Open Tues 09:00-16:00, and by prior arrangement for
groups.
EVENTS
RADOVLJICA FESTIVAL
Radovljica has been a top destination for early music
enthusiasts for more than 30 years, as each August
the town hosts two weeks of concerts by top musi-
cians from around world, making it the longest run-
ning festival of its kind in the country. Performances
are held in the magnicent Baroque Hall at Radovljica
Mansion as well as in the Church of St Peter nearby,
and each year at least one concert usually also takes
place at the Church of the Annunciation in the town
of Veselovo near Kranj, which boasts one of the n-
est pipe organs in Slovenia. In addition to the formal
early music concerts, the diverse festival programme
also includes contemporary music, theatre and dance
performances. During the events there is a free festival
bus that brings guests to Radovljica from Kranj and
Ljubljana.QRadovljica Early Music Society, Linhar-
tov Trg 1, tel. +386 (0)4 531 22 91, info@radolca.si,
www.festival-radovljica.si.
Radovljica Radovljica
WHERE TO EAT
LECTAR INN
Serving a selection of delicious Slovene cuisine and wines,
Lectar is an impressive option for any occasion, event or busi-
ness social. Folk music and dancing is arranged most evenings
for some light entertainment for the restaurants guests. The
restaurant is conveniently divided into several rooms, per-
fect for those coming in larger gatherings or families. A must
see here is museum in the basement.QLinhartov Trg 2, tel.
+386 (0)45 37 48 00, info@lectar.com, www.lectar.com.
Open 12:00-22:00. Closed Tues, except in July-Aug. PT
JAUG
VILA PODVIN
Opened in 2013, Vila Podvin is set in a beautifully restored
14th-century castle some 2km east of Radovljica, and just a
short drive north of Ljubljana. There are seven comfortable
guests rooms and suites available, but the real highlight here
is in the kitchen, which is run by one of Slovenias top chefs,
Uro tefelin. Renowned for transforming traditional Slovene
cuisine using modern culinary techniques, tefelin prepares
his own unique dishes with local ingredients and ample
creativity. Already a popular venue for weddings, the Podvin
estate also hosts other private events, oers horseback riding
and cooking workshops, and even has a selection of souvenirs
representing Slovenias rich cultural heritage.QMonje 1, tel.
+386 (0)41 747 636, info@vilapodvin.si, www.vilapodvin.si.
Open 12:00 - 22:00, Sun 12:00-17:00. Closed Mon.
WINE BARS
VINOTEKA SODEK
While the largely mountainous Gorenjska region is not
one of the Slovenias major wine growing areas, that
doesnt mean that the locals are any bit less enthusiastic
about drinking the stu - as evidenced by this combina-
tion wine shop and bar at the edge of Radovljicas main
square. If youd like a liquid souvenir theres a ne selection
of bottles from across Slovenia, and theres also the option
of lling up multi-litre jugs for those staying at a nearby
campsite or apartment. However, our favourite option is
the wine tasting menu, which includes ve dierent wines
along with a plate of Slovenian prosciutto, cheeses and ol-
ive oil for only 12.QLinhartov Trg 8, tel. +386 (0)4 531 59
71/+386 (0)41 678 408, info@vinoteka-sodcek.si, www.
vinoteka-sodcek.si. Open 09:00 - 21:00. Closed Sun.
HOTELS
LEKI DVOR
Whilst not winning many points for style, Leki Dvor is a
modest pension and restaurant in Lesce that plays a great
hand in homemade food, in particular the great old Balkan
grilled specialties. Twelve en-suite rooms are also avail-
able, all comfortable and simply furnished. The garden
surroundings are also a pleasant venue for a drink from
the well-stocked bar.QBegunjska 9, Lesce, tel. +386 (0)4
530 21 40, info@leski-dvor.com, www.leski-dvor.com.
Singles 40, doubles 60, triples 75.
CAMPING
CAMP OBEC
Located in a thick pine forest, this camping ground with
its very own lake is located on the road out of Bled to-
wards Lesce. You can either pitch a tent or rent one of
the bungalows that feel and smell pine-wood fresh dur-
ing the summer time. Plenty of family-friendly activities
can be organised, as well as just relaxing in the campsite
itself. A supermarket, restaurant and laundry are located
on the grounds.Qobeva 25, tel. +386 (0)45 35 37 00,
fax +386 (0)45 35 37 01, sobec@siol.net, sobec.si. Tents/
person 8.10-13.80, bungalows 75-150.
GRILLED DISHES
at Pension Leki dvor
Begunjska 9, Lesce
+386 (0)4 5302 140
www.leski-dvor.com
Vinoteka Sodek
BEGUNJE
Sitting in the foothills of the spectacular Karavanke
mountains and Kamnik Alps, Begunje na Gorenjskem,
or just Begne to the locals, rst appeared in the his-
torical records around the 11th century. The village and
surrounding countryside is rich in natural beauty and
cultural heritage including a number of signicant ar-
chaeological sites.
At the heart of Begunje is the impressive Katzenstein
Mansion and gardens, the onetime home of the Lam-
berg Counts the building also served as a penitentiary
for women before the Second World War and then as
an infamous Gestapo prison during the war. The man-
sion is closed to the public apart from a wing which has
been transformed into the Museum of Hostages, where
displays detail the horrifying experiences of the more
than 11,000 prisoners who suered at the mansion.
Also make sure to have a stroll through the mansions
gardens which house a magnicent pavilion designed
by the famous Slovene architect, Joe Plenik.
Before taking residence at Katzenstein the Lamberg
Counts resided in the nearby Kamen Stone Castle,
which dates from the 12th century when it was built
by the counts of Ortenburg. Located at the entrance
of the picturesque Draga Valley, it is well worth visit-
ing the imposing ruins of the castle and climbing the
preserved Romanesque tower. Visiting the ruins is free
though be careful as you enter and climb at your own
risk. The Draga Valley is the starting point for some ex-
cellent hikes up into the mountains and there are many
other great walks nearby including themed trails, check
at tourist information centre for details.
In addition to its castles and mansions Begunje is also
famous for being home to Elan, one of the worlds lead-
ing ski manufacturers, and Slavko Avsenik, a pioneer of
popular Slovene folk music. You can purchase a set of
award winning skis directly from the Elan factory and
there are weekly folk music concerts held at the Avs-
enik Restaurant, or if you miss the show check out the
fascinating little Avsenik Museum, which is found next
to the restaurant or at the Avsenik Gallery on the op-
posite side of the road.
AVSENIK GALLERY
QBegunje 19, tel. +386 (0)4 530 73 00/+386(0)31
784 555, galerija@avsenik.com, www.avsenik.com.
Open 11:00-19:00 Wed & Fri, 11:00-17:00 Sat-Sun.
Admission free.
AVSENIK MUSEUM
QBegunje 22, tel. +386 (0)4 53 33 402, galerija@
avsenik.com, www.avsenik.com. Open Tue-Sat
10:00-17:00. Closed Mon. Admission 1.50.
GUEST HOUSES & PENSIONS
TURISTINO NASELJE DOLE
Experience the tranquillity of nature at this newly built
tourist village outside the settlement of Podnart. The nine
chalets measure 70m, with a kitchen, living room and
bathroom on the ground oor and with private balconies
on the rst oor. They are situated a symmetrically on a
hillside, to provide the feeling of privacy and unobstructed
views of the countryside. The location is ideal for taking
advantage for the range of outdoor activities on oer, such
as hiking, cycling, rafting and shing - all of which can be
arranged with advanced notice.QPoljica 6, Podnart, tel.
+386 (0)41 680 925, alenka.brazda@gmail.com, www.
naselje-dole.si. 9 chalets 75-105, does not include
breakfast or mandatory 20 cleaning fee. TAL
T: +386 (0)838 434 70 / info@vilapodvin.si
Monje 1, Radovljica / www.vilapodvin.si / Vilapodvin
Learn all about the regions apiculture heritage at the Beekeeping
Centre in Lesce
Radovljica Radovljica
BRDO: DOMAIN OF DELIGHTS
One of the grandest estates in all of Slovenia, Brdo was
originally built at the beginning of the 16th century by
Habsburg nobleman Georg Egkh, and in the fve centu-
ries that followed it was home to several notable own-
ers including the Zois family and the last monarchs of
Serbia, the Karaorevi family. In more recently history,
the estate served as one of the favourite residences of
Yugoslav leader Josip Broz Tito and also famously host-
ed the frst meeting between the then newly elected
presidents of the United States and Russia, George Bush
and Vladimir Putin. In 2008 a modern conference cen-
tre was built to accommodate the numerous high-level
events that were held during Slovenias six month Presi-
dency of the Council of the EU.
The 500-hectare estate is administered by the Protocol
Ofce of the Republic of Slovenia, and is the main venue
for the states diplomatic events. However, for most of
the year the well-kept grounds and it various facilities,
including Brdo Castle itself, are open to the public. The
site also includes the newly renovated four-star Hotel
Brdo, which boasts a new wellness centre and fne res-
taurant.
Depending on visitors interests, the most impressive
site at Brdo is either the magnifcent grounds or Brdo
Castle. In addition to its amazing location at the foothills
of the Alps, the estate is criss-crossed with pathways
that wind through pastures and gardens, around several
lakes and through a large forested area. To traverse the
park in style a carriage drawn by white Lipizzaner horses
can be hired, as can small golf carts for those who prefer
practicality to romance.
Meanwhile in the middle of it all sits the indelible castle.
Relatively modest in size and with an unembellished
faade, the interior stands in stark contrast, as it was
completely renovated and refurnished after WWII to
refect the tastes of Tito. It has been left more or less
unchanged since his death in 1980, ofering an intimate
look into the life and times of one of the larger than life
fgures of the 20th century.
HOTEL BRDO
Set just outside the entrance of the Brdo estate, Hotel Brdo
oers unfettered access to all of the attractions within,
from carriage rides drawn by famed white Lipizzaner
horses and picnics in the park to the the modern confer-
ence centre and of course tours of the castle itself. Recent
renovations have bestowed the hotel with all the modern
comforts, and the premises also include a ne restaurant,
new wellness centre and two conference halls. The rooms
and suites are a great value, while the 200m2 presidential
suite is true to its name, having accommodated a certain
US leader during his stay in Slovenia in 2001.QPredoslje
39, tel. +386 (0)4 260 1000, hotel.brdo@gov.si, www.
brdo.si. 78 rooms. PHARLKD
HOTEL BRDO RESTAURANT
This newly renovated restaurant on the ground oor of
Hotel Brdo (formerly Hotel Kokra) is a perfect place for
lunch on a family trip to the adjacent Brdo Castle and Park.
Decidedly high-end in appearance, service and cuisine,
the menu boasts surprisingly aordable prices, especially
during lunch at the weekends. If youre looking for a more
romantic and/or relaxing getaway, you can combine your
meal with a trip to the onsite wellness centre, or a horse-
drawn carriage ride through the park grounds.QPredoslje
39, Kranj, tel. +386 (0)4 260 1000, +386 (0)4 260 1672,
hotel.brdo@gov.si, www.brdo.si. Open 07:00 - 22:00.
PTALBW
STRMOL CASTLE
Along the road connecting the villages of enjevek and
Dvorje you will nd the fairytale-like castle Strmol and its
park. Of the twelve medieval castles in the Cerklje munici-
pality this is the only one which survived the ravages of
time and is still in tip-top condition, and is also one of the
only castles in all of Slovenia that still includes its original
furniture. Since 2004 it has been a registered object of the
Republic of Slovenia and used as a guesthouse and confer-
ence site by the government.
First mentioned in literature in 1287, Strmol Castle is
among the oldest in the area and in essence medieval, but
the castle was renovated in Renaissance and Baroque style
resulting in an interesting architectural mixture. The castle
park has an aesthetically pleasing design dating from the
17th century. Currently it consists of an articial lake, non-
native trees, grass elds and a fountain, with Dvorjanski
hill in the background. Around the castle and the hill are
some nice paths for enjoyable strolling, and it has recently
opened as a luxury boutique hotel.QTel. +386 (0)4 260
15 01, brdo-eu@gov.si, www.brdo.si. Open for guided
tours by prior arrangement.
VRELEC BRDO WELLNESS
This wellness centre is one of the many facilities found at
the magnicent Hotel Brdo, which is itself situated on the
grounds of the Brdo Castle and Park - an historic estate
just north of Kranj, some 30 minutes by car from Ljubljana.
Vrelec oers a wide variety of massages and body care
treatments, as well as Finnish and Turkish saunas, a whirl-
pool and a cold pool for those who are daring enough to
take an invigorating dip.QPredoslje 39, Kranj, tel. +386
(0)4 260 18 16, vrelec.brdo@gov.si, www.brdo.si. Open
16:00 - 22:00, Sat, Sun 15:00 - 22:00.
Fairy tale weddings are one of the many unique happenings at the
Brdo Estate
Castle Brdo at Brdo Estate
Signed with the seal of excellence.
Strmol Castle Vila Bled
Experience beyond compare. Timeless elegance.

Prestige created over Centuries
JGZ Brdo State Protocol Services of the Republic of Slovenia, Predoslje 39, SI-4000 Kranj, Slovenia
Tel: +386 4 260 10 00 Fax: +386 4 202 15 51 email: brdo-eu@gov.si www.brdo.si
FOR YOU TO ENJ OY TODAY
Awaiting your visit in the rays of sunshine, crowned by glorious past, and
carrying the tradition into present. Venues where the nest encounters of todays
business world and diplomacy have found its home. Our unique castles and villas
are located in Slovenia, the very heart of Europe. With years-long experience of
organising protocol events of the highest level, conferences and celebrations we
remain a trusted partner, always ready and honoured to host your event with the
outmost of care and the highest quality of services.
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JULY | BLED TPC
19
th
| R.I.C Roots intention crew | France
AUGUST | BLED CASTLE
1
st
| Fargana Qasimova Ensemble | Azerbadjan
2
nd
| Catrin Finch and Seckou Keita | UK / Senegal
3
rd
| SVNG | Finnland
AUGUST | BLED SPA PARK
6
th
| Barcelona Gipsy Klezmer Orchestra | Spain
7
th
| Ferus Mustafov | Macedonia
8
th
| Debademba | Burkina Faso
9
th
| Family Atlantica | Venezuela
www.festival-okarina.si
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4
oglas-okarina_A5_koncna.indd 2 6.5.2014 11:05:03
Okarina Restaurant Bled | Ljubljanska cesta 8 | Bled
Open every day from 12:00 pm 3:00 pm & 6:00 pm 11:00 pm
Saturday Sunday from 12:00 pm till 11:00 pm
Reservation: +386 (4) 5741 458
www.okarina.com
RESTAURANT BLED
SIR PAUL McCARTNEY, OKARINA RESTAURANT
oglas-okarina_A5_koncna.indd 1 6.5.2014 11:04:57
+386 4 5729 782, www.bled-castle.si, blejski.grad@zkbled.si, FB: /BledCastle
BLED
CASTLE

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