From Bled: Water Rafting on the Sava River – How to Plan Your Tour

Are you planning a trip to Bled and looking for an exciting adventure? Water rafting on the Sava river might be just the thing for you! Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to plan your tour.

Step 1: Book Your Tour

The first step is to book your tour. You can book directly through the tour provider’s website at this link. The tour includes complete rafting equipment such as a wet suit, neoprene shoes, life-jacket, helmet, and paddle. The trip is guided by professional instructors and is suitable for families with small kids and anyone who desires to have some fun on the river.

Step 2: Prepare for Your Trip

Rafting can be a physically demanding activity, so it’s best to prepare in advance. Make sure you have appropriate clothing, such as a swimsuit or shorts and a t-shirt. Avoid cotton clothing as it can become heavy when wet. Dry-fit or synthetic clothing is a better option. Wear water shoes or sneakers that you don’t mind getting wet.

Bring a towel, a change of clothes, and a plastic bag to store your wet clothes. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and sunglasses for protection against the sun.

Step 3: Arrive at the Meeting Point

Make sure you arrive at the meeting point on time. The meeting point is at the Rafting Center, located near Bled. You should receive an email confirmation with all the necessary details after booking your tour.

Step 4: Get Your Rafting Equipment

Before your trip, you’ll receive your complete rafting equipment, including a wet suit, neoprene shoes, life-jacket, helmet, and paddle. Your instructor will help you put on your gear and ensure that everything is fitting properly.

Step 5: Safety Briefing

It’s important to pay attention during the safety briefing. Your instructor will explain the basics of rafting, such as how to hold your paddle and how to respond to the guide’s commands. They’ll also explain what to do in case of an emergency.

Step 6: Start Your Rafting Trip

Once the safety briefing is over, hop in the minivan and head to the starting point of the rafting trip. The whole trip takes around 2.5 hours, and you’ll spend between 1-1.5 hours rafting on the river.

The Sava river is known for its spectacular emerald color, and you’ll enjoy the beautiful scenery as you make your way down the river. The river has II & II+ class rapids, which are easy and slow, making it a perfect experience for families with small kids or beginners. Your guide will take pictures for you during the trip, which you can pick up later on.

Step 7: End of Your Trip

Once your rafting trip is over, you’ll head back to the Rafting Center. You can change into dry clothes and grab a bite to eat at the on-site cafe.

Conclusion

Water rafting on the Sava river is an exciting adventure that you won’t want to miss during your trip to Bled. By following these simple steps, you’ll be well-prepared for your trip and ready to experience the beautiful scenery and thrill of the rapids.

An Insider’s Guide to Bled, Slovenia

Bled, Slovenia, is a true hidden gem, tucked away in the Julian Alps. It’s a picturesque location, surrounded by mountains and forests, and known for its fairytale-like setting – a stunningly beautiful lake with a small island in the middle and an imposing castle perched high on a cliff. However, that’s not all Bled has to offer. From water rafting on the Sava River to exploring the local cuisine, there’s plenty to see, do, and experience.

Local Attractions

Bled Castle – Just perched above Bled town, the castle offers breathtaking views of the lake and surroundings. The castle itself is a historical landmark, with its origins dating back to the 11th century. Visitors can tour the castle museum, which showcases the area’s rich history and culture.

Lake Bled – The iconic Lake Bled is, of course, the most popular attraction in the area. The lake is a postcard-perfect sight, surrounded by mountains, forests, and a 17th-century church on a tiny island. Visitors can take a traditional pletna boat ride to the island, climb 99 steps to the church, and ring the wishing bell.

Vintgar Gorge – Another captivating natural attraction near Bled is the Vintgar Gorge. The mile-long gorge features steep walls, a crystal-clear river, and several stunning waterfalls. A wooden walkway winds along the gorge, allowing visitors to take in the views up close.

Dining Spots

Gostilna Pri Planinskem Orlu – This rustic restaurant is located in the nearby village of Zgornje Gorje, and it’s well worth the trip. The menu highlights seasonal and local produce, with dishes like venison goulash and wild mushroom risotto.

Bled Castle Restaurant – If you want to combine a meal with some stunning views, then head to the Bled Castle Restaurant. The restaurant serves gourmet Slovenian cuisine with a modern twist and offers panoramic views of the lake area.

Gostilna Union – This traditional tavern is located in the center of Bled town and serves hearty, Slovenian-style meals. The atmosphere is cozy, with wooden interiors and local memorabilia adorning the walls.

Cultural Experiences

Beekeeping Museum – A unique cultural experience not to be missed is the Beekeeping Museum in Radovljica, just a short drive from Bled. The museum showcases Slovenia’s long-lasting beekeeping tradition, with interactive exhibits and beekeeping workshops.

Pletna Boat Ride – A trip to Bled isn’t complete without taking a traditional pletna boat ride around the lake. The boats are handmade and powered by local boatmen, who share stories and legends about the area’s history.

Festival of Radovljica – If you happen to be in Bled during April or May, don’t miss the annual Festival of Radovljica. The festival celebrates local culinary heritage, with vendors showcasing traditional Slovenian dishes, wine, and beer.

Local History

Bled has a rich and interesting history, dating back to the prehistoric era. Throughout history, Bled was part of various kingdoms and empires, including the Roman, Austrian, and Yugoslav empires. During World War II, the area was a key battlefront. To learn more about the area’s history, visit the Bled Castle Museum or the Museum of the Gorenjska Region in Kranj.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Bohinj Lake – While Bled Lake is the most famous lake in Slovenia, the lesser-known Bohinj Lake is also worth a visit. The lake is located in the Triglav National Park and offers stunning views of the Julian Alps.

Blegos Mountain – For an active off-the-beaten-path experience, head to the top of Blegos Mountain. The 1,562-meter mountain offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, and visitors can hike to the top from the nearby village of Kropa.

Adventure Sports – For those looking for a bit of an adrenaline rush, check out some of the adventure sports on offer in the area, including water rafting on the Sava River, canyoning in the nearby gorges, or zip-lining across the valley.

Conclusion

Bled, Slovenia, truly offers something for everyone, from stunning natural beauty to unique cultural experiences. Whether you’re interested in history, adventure sports, or local cuisine, Bled has it all. So pack your bags and head to this hidden gem in the Julian Alps for an unforgettable vacation.