8 days in Slovenia : cycle around lake Bled

Bled is renowned for its stunning scenery, featuring a picturesque lake, a castle perched on a rock above the water, and a charming pilgrimage church on an island. A must-try is the delightful cream cake "Kremšnita" – indulge in this treat on a sunny day at the terrace of the Park Hotel.

Start your trip with a leisurely day, cycling around the lake and up to the castle to admire the view of the lake and the church. For the best photos and views of the church, castle and Karavanke montains, head west and hike up to the Mala Osojnica and Ojstrica viewpoints. In the evening, try one of the many great restaurants and sample the local specialties.

As sunlight floods over Lake Bled, you'll cycle at the foot of the Jelovica High Plateau, offering a stunning view into Triglav National Park. Stop at Kropa, Slovenia's foremost blacksmith town, and visit the iron forging museum, where you can even learn to make your own nail. Continue to the beautifully preserved old town of Radovljica, home to an interesting beekeeping museum and a delightful ice cream shop. On your way back to Bled, pass by the Sobec camping site, where you can relax and cool your feet in the fresh water of the little pond.

Today, you'll visit the sunny village of Begunje, home to legendary Slovenian folk musician Slavko Avsenik. Enjoy lunch at his restaurant, Avsenik Gostilna. Afterward, explore the museum of hostages and the ruins of Kamen Castle. In the afternoon, you'll pass Brezje Basilica, a significant religious site and popular pilgrimage destination for many Slovenians.

Today's adventure begins at the less-visited Pokljuka Gorge, formed 10,000 years ago at the eastern edge of the plateau. Leave your bike behind and take a stroll through ancient woods and a fossilized ravine left by a retreating glacier. Next, head to the stunning Vintgar Gorge, carved 150 meters deep into the mountains by the Radovna River, culminating at the Šum Waterfall. Before returning to Bled, take a short detour to St. Catherine's Church, where you can enjoy lunch with a panoramic view of Bled Castle as your backdrop.

Our local partner will drive you to the Pokljuka high plateau to join the start of your itinerary.

Meet him at the hotel reception between at 8:45 am with your bikes. Please don't be late. 

After a car transfer to the top of the Pokljuka high plateau, you'll cycle down into the Bohinj Valley, passing through alpine villages and by unique Slovene hay racks until you reach Lake Bohinj, a true gem in the heart of this alpine valley. From the village of Ribčev Laz, enjoy a serene panoramic trip on the lake by electric boat. Return to Bled via a spectacular new cycleway along the Sava River.

First, cycle through the Radovna Valley, nestled between two great plateaus, to the foot of Mount Triglav. Here, enjoy lunch in the shadow of this majestic mountain before continuing through a tranquil forested valley dotted with WWII monuments and traditional farmhouses. One of these farmhouses has been converted into a museum, which was even visited by Prince Charles.

Enjoy a final stroll through the town and along the lake before your departure.