Lake Bled and Bohinj With Vintgar Gorge Included

Nestled in the picturesque Julian Alps, Lake Bled and Bohinj Valley offer a breathtaking blend of natural beauty and cultural charm. Visitors can explore the iconic Bled Castle, take a tranquil boat ride to the island, and discover the serene Bohinj Lake. But the true highlight may lie in the dramatic Vintgar Gorge, where towering cliffs and crystal-clear waters create a captivating setting for nature enthusiasts. With a guided tour, travelers can enjoy this stunning Slovenian landscape and uncover its hidden gems.

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Key Points

A full-day guided tour from Ljubljana to explore the natural wonders of Lake Bled, Lake Bohinj, and the stunning Vintgar Gorge.
Visit Bled Castle, take a traditional boat to Bled Island, and ring the wishing bell at the Church of the Assumption.
Discover the serene beauty of Lake Bohinj, surrounded by the majestic Julian Alps, and enjoy swimming opportunities in the summer.
Hike along the crystal-clear Radovna River through the remarkable natural landscapes of Vintgar Gorge.
Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a hassle-free experience with a 98% approval rating and a Badge of Excellence.

Tour Overview

The full-day guided tour from Ljubljana to Lake Bled and Bohinj Valley is highly recommended, with a 98% approval rating and a Badge of Excellence.

The tour highlights include Bled Castle, Bled Island, and Bohinj Lake, Slovenia’s largest glacial lake. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it a convenient option.

With 414 reviews, this tour offers an immersive experience to explore the stunning natural beauty of the region.

The tour duration varies, with 4 hours each at Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj, plus an additional 1.5 hours at the Vintgar Gorge, known for its hiking trails and natural scenery.

Looking for more options in Ljubljana? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Exploring Lake Bled

On the tour, visitors spend around 4 hours exploring the picturesque Lake Bled.

They visit the 11th-century Bled Castle, perched atop a steep cliff overlooking the lake.

For a unique experience, travelers can take a traditional wooden pletna boat to the tiny Bled Island, home to the Church of the Assumption.

Here, they can climb the 99 steps to the church’s bell tower and ring the wishing bell.

With the surrounding Julian Alps as a backdrop, Bled Lake offers stunning natural beauty and opportunities for swimming in the summer.

Visiting Bled Castle

One of the highlights of the Lake Bled tour is the visit to the 11th-century Bled Castle.

Situated atop a steep cliff, the castle offers stunning views of the picturesque lake and surrounding Julian Alps.

Visitors can:

Explore the castle’s courtyards, towers, and museums to learn about its history and architecture.
Visit the clifftop terrace for panoramic vistas of the lake and Bled Island.
Stop by the castle’s wine cellar to sample local vintages.
Browse the castle’s souvenir shops for unique crafts and gifts.

The castle visit lasts approximately one hour and is a must-see during any Lake Bled excursion.

Pletna Boat Ride to Bled Island

After exploring the majestic Bled Castle, visitors can embark on a unique experience – the traditional Pletna boat ride to Bled Island.

These wooden boats, rowed by skilled oarsmen, gently glide across the tranquil waters of Lake Bled, offering stunning views of the castle, the island, and the surrounding mountains.

The 30-minute boat ride transports travelers to the serene Bled Island, home to the Church of the Assumption with its famous wishing bell.

Visitors can tour the island, discover its history, and make a wish at the bell before returning to the mainland by Pletna.

Discovering Lake Bohinj

The tour continues to the stunning Lake Bohinj, Slovenia’s largest glacial lake nestled in the picturesque Bohinj Valley.

Surrounded by the majestic Julian Alps, the lake offers a serene and tranquil atmosphere.

Visitors can:

Admire the breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks and the pristine emerald-green waters.
Enjoy a refreshing swim in the lake during the summer months.
Explore the charming village of Bohinj and its traditional architecture.
Embark on hiking trails that wind through the lush forests and meadows surrounding the lake.

The tour provides ample time to fully immerse in the natural beauty of this remarkable destination.

There's plenty more to explore in Ljubljana

Experiencing Vintgar Gorge

Although the tour of Lake Bled and Bohinj offers stunning natural scenery, it wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Vintgar Gorge.

This natural wonder is known for its remarkable beauty, with hiking trails that wind along the crystal-clear Radovna River. Visitors can marvel at the towering walls of the gorge, carved by the river over centuries.

The 1.6-kilometer trail through Vintgar Gorge takes around 90 minutes to complete, providing an up-close look at the area’s geological features.

This included excursion is a highlight of the tour, offering a chance to take in Slovenia’s remarkable natural landscapes.

Guide and Transportation Details

An English-speaking guide and driver are provided to lead the tour of Lake Bled and Bohinj. The guide offers expertise and insight throughout the journey.

Some key details about the transportation and guide:

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves moderate physical activity.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available.
The maximum group size is 24 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.
A moderate fitness level is required, especially for the Vintgar Gorge portion of the tour.

Tour Inclusions and Pricing

The tour price starts from $109.16 per person, offering excellent value for the comprehensive experience it provides. This includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide/driver, and admission to the Vintgar Gorge during the peak season.

Additional costs cover entry fees for Bled Castle, the Bled Island boat ride, and the Church of St. Mary Assumption, which total around 12€ per person.

Travelers should note that cash payment is required for certain excursions.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours before, this tour provides flexibility and convenience for visitors exploring the stunning Lake Bled and Bohinj regions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Lake Bled and Bohinj?

The best time to visit Lake Bled and Bohinj is from May to October, when the weather’s mild and the lakes and gorge are accessible. Hiking and swimming are popular activities during this peak season.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not permitted on this guided tour. The tour has a maximum group size of 24 travelers and is not designed to accommodate animals. However, service animals may be allowed with prior notice.

Is It Possible to Extend the Tour Duration?

It’s possible to extend the tour duration, but this would come at an additional cost. Travelers should inquire with the tour operator about options for a longer itinerary or adding more activities to the excursion.

Do the Guides Provide Recommendations for Local Cuisine?

The guides often provide recommendations for local Slovenian cuisine to enhance the tour experience. They can suggest traditional dishes and regional specialties to try during the free time at Lake Bled and Bohinj.

Is There an Option to Explore the Lakes Independently?

Yes, the tour provides the flexibility to explore the lakes independently. Travelers can choose to skip certain activities and spend more time wandering around the lakes and nearby areas at their own pace.

The Sum Up

The Lake Bled and Bohinj with Vintgar Gorge tour offers a captivating journey through Slovenia’s natural wonders. Visitors can explore the iconic Lake Bled, visit its historic castle, and take a tranquil boat ride to the island. The tour also includes a visit to the serene Lake Bohinj and a scenic hike through the stunning Vintgar Gorge, providing a well-rounded experience for nature enthusiasts.