Slovenia - part 2: Lake Bled
Lake Bled: Slovenia’s Iconic Jewel
My Journey to Slovenia
After summer adventures in Scotland, I longed for landscapes further afield. Slovenia had been recommended to me months earlier as a photographer’s dream, but a European heatwave dampened the idea of a summer visit. I kept the thought alive until November, when the opportunity finally arose.
Visiting in November
Traveling in November carries risks. The summer crowds are gone, but the winter season has yet to begin — ski resorts remain closed, and the weather can be unpredictable. Rain is common, and snow often arrives mid‑month. Winter tyres are legally required from around November 14th, so I made sure to swap my rental car early.
Yet fortune favoured me. The skies were clear, the air crisp, and Lake Bled shimmered in the autumn light. The atmosphere was calm and relaxed, with far fewer tourists than in peak season.
A Natural Wonder
Nestled in the Julian Alps, Lake Bled is one of Slovenia’s most visited destinations. Formed by a mix of glacial and tectonic movements, the lake stretches 2,120 meters long and 1,380 meters wide, with a maximum depth of 29 meters. Its serene waters are crowned by Bled Castle, perched dramatically on a cliff above the town. Dating back to 1011, the castle is the oldest in Slovenia and remains one of the country’s most popular attractions.
Bled Castle: History on a Cliff
Bled Castle
The castle’s medieval walls have witnessed centuries of change. Originally built as a defensive fortress, it has evolved into a cultural landmark and museum. Today, visitors can explore its courtyards, towers, and exhibitions while enjoying panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Landscape Photography Dreams
Lake Bled was my first stop before heading deeper into the Julian Alps. From here, I trekked into remote gorges and chased waterfalls, but the lake itself offered endless photographic inspiration — from the castle above to the reflections on the water and the surrounding alpine scenery.
A Taste of Slovenia
No Slovenian adventure is complete without sampling the local cuisine. Influenced by Italian, Germanic, and Mediterranean traditions, the food is hearty and varied. Meat and cheese boards are a must, and sausages abound in countless styles, often paired with creamy mashed potatoes and tangy sauerkraut.
Why Lake Bled Belongs on Your List
Whether you’re drawn by history, photography, or simply the beauty of nature, Lake Bled is a destination that rewards slow exploration. Visiting in November gave me space to breathe, reflect, and capture the landscapes without the summer crowds. Standing at the castle, gazing over the lake, I felt the timeless charm of Slovenia unfold before me.
Why not follow my journeys on YouTube. You can catch up with me in part 2 of my video playlist from Slovenia by clicking the video below - you can jump straight into my visit to Lake Bled or choose whichever location you are interested in. The one below includes my adventure through a gorge to a remote waterfall - my favourite for sure!
What next…..
Join me soon for part three in which I venture up to the mountain pass of Triglav as the weather quickly draws in and freezing temperature envelope the peak.