Bled Island

One of the most beautiful lakes I have ever visited. There are some nice beaches where you can swim or picnic with an amazing view. Try the famous cream cake in Park hotel.

Picturesque island with a picturesque church. 99 steps to climb to church. Many steps to climb the bell tower. Only way to get there is by row boat, which cost 20E per person. And you have to return to the boat in 40 minutes.

The panoramic view is amazingly great! However, there’s nothing to do there except walk up the stairs and enjoying the landscape. Also, this type of activity worth doing one in life but still €20 per person is a high price for the boat 🛶. Plus, I noticed that they only take cash (you should Pop machine as tourists sometimes have no access to cash). Note that you may have to wait for the awhile till the boat is completely full of people.

Bled Island – Tiny and marvelous (May 4, 2025) The classic wooden pletna boat ride is pure bliss: you sit back, the oarsman rows silently, and the emerald water slides beneath you while the castle towers on the cliff and the Julian Alps frame everything like a painting. When you reach the tiny island, the famous 99 baroque steps lead you up to the stunning Church of the Assumption – its white bell tower rising above the trees is even more breathtaking up close. Inside the church is peaceful and full of light, and the views from the island over the crystal-clear lake are simply unreal. Walking around the little paths, watching the swans and the other pletnas coming and going, you really feel like you’re inside a fairy tale. Even on a sunny weekend it never felt overcrowded on the island itself. An absolute highlight of our entire trip – don’t leave Bled without doing this!

After hearing so much about the famous Lake Bled in Europe, I finally got to see its beauty today. Visiting in mid-February during the off-season, the lake wasn’t its usual bright blue, but it was incredibly peaceful, allowing us to fully appreciate its natural charm. We rented a wooden paddle boat from a nearby restaurant and B&B for €25 per hour, and the owner was absolutely helpful. It took us about 15 minutes to reach the island. While there aren’t many attractions on the island itself—entering the church costs €12.50—the most magical part was simply drifting in the middle of the lake. There’s also a hiking trail that takes you halfway up the mountain, offering a stunning panoramic view of the lake. I highly recommend it!

Anyways we reached Bled around 9:30 am and then we went to the Bled Island Electric boat. The first one of the day departed at 10 am. There was about 12 of us on it. It was funny because the driver is like, you really only need 10 minutes on the island but I’ll come back in an hour. To be honest, he was definitely right!

Getting to Bled Island itself is a memorable experience. You'll take a traditional pletna boat, which adds a touch of old-world charm. The skilled pletna rower will guide you smoothly across the calm waters of Lake Bled, offering stunning views of the lake, Bled Castle perched high above, and the surrounding mountains. The Church of the Assumption of Mary, a Baroque beauty, is the heart of the island. Its striking white facade and distinct bell tower make it hard to miss. Inside, the ornate altars and lovely frescoes invite contemplation. The real highlight is ringing the church bell—it’s said to bring you good luck, and it adds a delightful touch of tradition to the visit. Make sure to climb the bell tower for sweeping views of the lake and the mountains. The ascent is well worth the effort, and you’ll be rewarded with some of the best photo opportunities around. The island itself is small but lush, with pathways winding around its gardens. I enjoyed the peaceful walk, listening to the sounds of nature and absorbing the serene atmosphere. The island offers plenty of benches to rest and admire the surroundings.

Bled Island is truly a gem nestled in the heart of Slovenia, offering visitors an enchanting blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. As you glide across the serene waters of Lake Bled on a traditional *pletna* boat, the island's picturesque silhouette grows ever more captivating, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience. Upon arrival, the island welcomes you with its lush greenery and a sense of timeless tranquility. However, it's important to note that your time on the island is somewhat limited if you arrive via the boat tours, which typically allow for just one hour on the island, as you are required to return on the same boat that brought you. While this may seem brief, it’s more than enough to explore the island's key attractions and absorb its serene atmosphere. For those who prefer a more leisurely visit, there is also the option to rent a rowboat from the other side of the lake and reach the island independently. If you choose this option, your time on the island is entirely at your discretion, allowing you to linger and explore at your own pace, free from the constraints of a scheduled return. A visit to the Church of the Assumption, perched proudly at the island’s highest point, is an absolute must. The church’s interior is awe-inspiring, with its baroque frescoes and the famous wishing bell, which legend says grants wishes to those who ring it. However, be aware that there is an entrance fee to enter the church, and it's worth considering the family ticket option if you're visiting with loved ones. The island also boasts a charming souvenir shop, filled with a delightful array of handcrafted items. Each piece is a testament to the local artisans' skill and creativity, making it the perfect place to pick up a memento of your visit. The exquisite craftsmanship of these souvenirs ensures they are as meaningful as they are beautiful, making them a wonderful way to remember your time on this magical island. In summary, Bled Island is a destination that enchants all who visit, offering a peaceful retreat with just a few logistical considerations to keep in mind. Whether you choose the structured boat tour or the freedom of a private rowboat, the island’s overwhelming charm and beauty will surely leave a lasting impression. It’s a place where memories are made, and where the soul is nourished by the stunning interplay of nature and history.