Lake Bled, a turquoise glittering gem of Slovenia, is renowned for its breathtaking views and the church located on a round island in the middle of the lake. To fully appreciate the beauty of this fairytale-like landscape, consider visiting the two best viewpoints: Ojstrica and Bled Castle, both accessible by car.
Ojstrica Viewpoint
Ojstrica, the number one viewpoint of Lake Bled, offers a panoramic view of the lake, the island, and the high mountains in the background. To reach Ojstrica, park in Zaka and follow the trail that starts from the road above the lake, leading you to the viewpoint in about twenty minutes. The trail is steep and rocky, so wear appropriate footwear. Once at the top, you’ll find a bench to soak in the stunning views.
Bled Castle
Bled Castle, one of the oldest and most spectacular castles in Slovenia, provides a dramatic view of Lake Bled from 139 meters above the shore. To reach the castle, you can either drive to the entrance or hike up from the main promenade around the lake starting from the Rikli Villa. The castle offers more than just breathtaking views; visit it for a glimpse into the history of Slovenia, including the castle printing rooms, old wine cellar, Gothic chapel, museum, and contemporary art exhibitions.
Driving to Lake Bled
To reach Lake Bled by car, drive from Ljubljana, which is about 30 minutes away. The roads around Lake Bled can be congested during the summer months, so allow extra time for your journey. When you arrive, go around the lake from the left side and look for a sandy road that leads to a parking place before the camping site. The parking area is a bit hidden and seems like a dead end, but there is a small place meant for cars to park in.
Cost, Timings, and Other Details
| Attraction | Cost |
|---|---|
| Parking | Approximately €4 per day |
| Ojstrica Hike | Free; allow 40 minutes for the round trip |
| Bled Castle Entrance Fee | €11 for adults, €7 for children, and €26 for families (2 adults and up to 3 children under 14) |
Bled Castle Opening Hours:
* April to September: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
* October to March: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM