Bled and Bohinj - The beauties of north-western Slovenia

Hello guys :)
Did you know that when want to agree in Slovenian, you can choose to do it either in German or in Russian? Apparently, Ja as well as Da are also Slovenian for Yes. And interesting facts about Slovenia do not end there. Wanna know more? Then follow the link and enjoy my newest article.

The first time you visit Slovenia, you have to have the feeling like several cultural areas are having the meeting point here. Although it used to be a member state of the former Yugoslavia, sometimes you are feeling the central European vibe, especially in the northern parts of the country. Basically you may say that you can travel from the Alps to the central European city and to the Mediterranean Italy-like coast and never actually cross any border or travel more than 200 km. Slovenia lays at the border of cultures - and all of them combined have been building this magnificent nation since the very beginning.

Today I would like to take you for a visit to the alpine area of the country, to take a look and enjoy one of the Europe's most picturesque mountainous landscape. Welcome to Bohinj and Bled lake.

The Bohinj lake is the largest natural water reservoir in Slovenia (not counting the Adriatic sea the the country borders of course). It covers the area of over 318 hectares and provides immense chances for water sports, sailing or just chilling at water. The lake is fed by the river Savica which flows down the hills with the majestic waterfall (Slap Savica) which is definitely also worth the visit. Just be prepared for around a kilometer of climbing up the hill and stairs.

The landscape itself is basically inviting you to take a walk and enjoy the beautiful views of the Julian Alps, wooden buildings, sweet little churches and picturesque villages. If you have the time and the weather is not bad (don't forget, you are in the |Alps and it can change from moment to moment), go for it and don't stop admiring the natural beauties around.

If you travel some 40 km further, you end up at probably the most iconic landmark of the whole Slovenia - Lake Bled and the Church of the Assumption of Mary on an Island in the middle.

I had quite a bad weather while visiting this place, but if you get lucky and avoid the Slovenian monsoon ( :D ) the views are breathtaking. Just take a look at the pictures and you will see - it looks like a fairy tale. Regular pilgrimages are held to this church, it is also a very favorite place for weddings. They say it brings you good fortune, if the groom carries the bride up all the steps of the staircase to the church on the hill. Well, providing the groom actually survives the effort though. 99 steps are 99 steps.

Overlooking the lake and the valley is the majestic medieval Bled Castle. If you are looking for the number one spot to enjoy the view of the whole lake and the iconic island, this is your place to go. The castle is open from 8 till 8 in Summer and till 6 outside the tourist season and the admission fee is 10 EURO.

Have I tuned you enough? Then allons-y to Slovenia! And don't forget. Cows go always first at crossroads :))

Lex