Lying between the magnificent Julian Alps and the Mediterranean Sea, Slovenia is one of the smallest countries in Europe. It is therefore a perfect destination for a short trip or extended weekend. With lush greenery as far as the eye can see, it rightfully earns its nickname as “The Green Piece of Europe.” This post will focus on one such green area – the spectacular Triglav National Park.
For nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, the entire Triglav National Park area will be an absolute delight. Triglav, Slovenia’s highest mountain, as well as the highest mountain in the former Yugoslavia, lies within the national park. The park covers 4% of Slovenia’s territory and encompasses Lake Bled and Kranjska Gora. However, it also holds other treasures such as the more remote Lake Bohinj and Trenta Valley.
Best Places to Visit:
If you’re an avid skier, you’ve probably heard of Kranjska Gora, an alpine skiing resort in the north-eastern part of the country. A part of the prestigious World Cup circuit, Kranjska Gora hosts the slalom and the giant slalom each year. Don’t worry if you’re not into skiing. There are also plenty of bike trails and hiking paths with panoramic views of the Julian Alps – in my opinion, one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in Europe.
Explore Lake Bohinj, Slovenia’s largest natural lake. Located in a glacial valley, Agatha Christie famously said it was “too beautiful for a murder”, whilst visiting. You can swim in the lake in summer and ice-skate over its frozen surface in the winter.
No trip to Slovenia is complete without a stop at Lake Bled. With its bluish-green water and medieval castle towering above it, it is every bit as mesmerising in person as it is on postcards. To complete the look, there is a monastery on the island in the middle of the lake, which you can only reach via a wooden boat, called a pletna. Simply breath-taking.
Nestled deep in the heart of the Julian Alps lies the beautiful Trenta Valley. This 20km valley is a paradise for nature lovers, mountain climbers, and hikers. Rafting and kayaking are also huge activities here, so if you’re up for it, go down to Kobarid and check out the different options. With imposing views of the spectacular mountains all around, and the emerald blue water of the Soča River running through it, you might never want to leave. Sadly, the Trenta Valley is also home to some of the fiercest battles during World War 1. To learn more about these, please click here.
Tania’s tip: be sure to walk up to the Bear’s Head in the Tolmin Gorge. The Bear’s Head is a large rock which is wedged into the walls of the canyon and has therefore become a natural bridge. One of Triglav National Park’s most spectacular sights.
Have a drink in:
Whilst at Lake Bled, grab a table beneath the trees at the lovely Vila Prešeren. Overlooking the lake, this is an ideal spot to have a coffee or try one of their delicious homemade ice teas.
Tania’s tip: try the famous Blejska kremšnita at the Park Café on the lakefront. Seeing as they made the original one, all other kremšnite pale in comparison.
Eat in:
Gostilna Pri Martinu in Kranjska Gora is a rustic, no frills restaurant. Local specialities include beef goulash, river trout and roast pork. You will not leave hungry!
Eat in the oldest pub in Bled, Gostilna Pri Planincu. Located in the city centre, this restaurant has been operating for over 100 years. In it you will find traditional Slovenian cuisine, wine from their cellar, beer on tap, and a warm atmosphere.
Bled Slovenia Hotels:
Stay at the luxurious Adora in Bled. This design hotel is set in a 19th-century villa along the lakefront. All of the suites come with a lake view and the attention to detail is superb. Well worth your money.
Another quaint place to stay in Bled is the Old Bled House. This three-hundred year old farmhouse is located in the heart of Bled. Each of the 13 rooms is made using natural materials and all of the furniture is handmade. A hidden gem.