The 10 Most Interesting Facts About Bled

Bled is a small town on the Julian Alps, located in northwestern Slovenia. The town is famous for its stunning lake, historic castle, and breathtaking scenery that makes it a popular tourist destination. Here are the ten most interesting and surprising facts about Bled that you probably didn’t know:

1. Bled has a Church on its Only Island

Bled’s island is home to the Church of the Assumption, which is the only church on the island. The island is accessible only by boats known as pletnas, which are operated by local boatmen.

2. The Origins of Bled’s Name are Mysterious

No one knows the exact origin of Bled’s name, but some experts suggest that it comes from the old German word “fleten,” which means to flow. The name might refer to the nearby Sava Dolinka river’s flow or the town’s location by the lake.

3. Bled’s Castle is More Than a Thousand Years Old

Bled Castle, also known as Blejski grad, was first mentioned in written sources in 1011, making it one of the oldest castles in Slovenia. It offers a breathtaking view of Lake Bled, and visitors can explore its museum, wine cellar, and castle printing shop.

4. Bled is Famous for Its Cream Cake

Bled is famous for kremna rezina or Bled cream cake, which is made with vanilla cream, whipped cream, and crispy puff pastry. The cake was first served in the Park Hotel in 1953 and has since become a symbol of the town.

5. Bled is a Popular Destination for Athletes

Bled has hosted many international sports events, including the World Rowing Championships, the European Ironman Triathlon, and the European Basketball Championships. Many athletes come to train in Bled because of its favorable climate and excellent sports facilities.

6. Bled Has a Thermal Spring

Bled has a thermal spring located in the nearby town of Zrnovnica. The water from the spring is rich in minerals and has a beneficial effect on many health problems.

7. Bled’s Lake is Home to a Rare Fish Species

Lake Bled is home to the Bleak fish, a small species that is found only in a few areas of Europe. The fish lives in shallow waters and feeds on algae.

8. Bled is the Birthplace of a World-Class Athlete

Bled is the birthplace of Iztok Čop, a Slovenian rower who has won two Olympic gold medals and multiple world championships. He is considered one of the greatest rowers of all time.

9. Bled has a Rich Cultural Heritage

Bled has a rich cultural heritage, with many old buildings, museums, and galleries. The town’s history can be traced back to the 11th century, and it has been influenced by various cultures and traditions.

10. Bled is a Sustainable Destination

Bled has adopted a sustainable tourism development strategy, which promotes responsible and eco-friendly tourism practices. The town has received several awards and certifications for its efforts to reduce the environmental impact of tourism.

In conclusion, Bled is a remarkable town with many interesting facts that make it worth visiting. Its breathtaking scenery, rich cultural heritage, and sustainable tourism practices make it an ideal destination for anyone who loves nature and culture.

The 10 Most Interesting Facts About Bled

Slovenia is a small country that packs a lot of beauty and charm, and one of its most visited places is the town of Bled. Situated in the Julian Alps and known for its gorgeous lake and castle, Bled is a place where history, nature, and adventure come together. If you’re planning a trip to Bled or just want to know more about this amazing destination, we’ve put together a list of the 10 most interesting facts about Bled that will help you get familiar with its rich culture and unique features.

1. Bled Lake is Over 1.000 Years Old

Bled Lake, the heart of the town, is one of the most beautiful natural sights in Slovenia. It is approximately 2,120 meters long, 1,380 meters wide, and up to 30 meters deep. The lake’s waters are crystal clear and always have an emerald green color due to the reflection of the surrounding green hills. The lake is over 1,000 years old, and it is believed to have been formed after the last ice age. According to legend, a temple of the ancient Slavic goddess Živa used to be located on a small island in the lake, and people came to make sacrifices there.

2. Bled Island is the Only Natural Island in Slovenia

The most iconic feature of Bled Lake is the small island located in the middle of the lake. Bled Island is the only natural island in Slovenia and has been attracting visitors for centuries. The island is home to the Assumption of Mary Church, also known as St. Mary’s Church, which dates back to the 15th century. The church is famous for its 52-meter bell-tower, and visitors can climb the 99 steps to the top for a stunning view of the lake and surrounding area.

3. The Oldest Castle in Slovenia is Located in Bled

Bled Castle is a medieval fortress that sits atop a hill overlooking the lake. It is the oldest castle in Slovenia and dates back to the 11th century. The castle has a long history and has been used for various purposes over the centuries, including a military stronghold, a prison, and a printing house. Today, it serves as a museum, where visitors can learn about the castle’s history, see ancient artifacts, and enjoy panoramic views of the town and the surrounding mountains.

4. Bled is a Paradise for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Bled is a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts who love adventure and nature. The town offers a wide variety of activities including hiking, cycling, swimming, boating, fishing, skiing, and more. There are many marked trails in the area, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes, and cyclists can enjoy the beautiful countryside on the numerous cycling routes. In winter, Bled turns into a snow-covered wonderland, and visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports.

5. Bled’s Cream Cake is a Local Delicacy

If you have a sweet tooth, you must try Bled’s famous cream cake, or kremna rezina, a traditional dessert made of layers of delicate pastry and vanilla cream. The cake was invented by the chef at the Park Hotel in Bled in 1953, and it has since become a symbol of Bled’s culinary tradition. You can find the cake in almost every restaurant and café in town, but the original recipe is still a closely guarded secret.

6. Bled Is Surrounded by Picturesque Villages

Bled is not the only beautiful place in the area, and visitors should take the opportunity to explore the surrounding villages that offer breathtaking views of the Julian Alps and the countryside. Some of the must-visit villages include Bohinj, a scenic village that sits on the shores of a beautiful alpine lake, and Radovljica, a medieval town known for its colorful buildings and charming streets.

7. Bled is a Popular Destination for Weddings

Bled is known as one of the most romantic destinations in Europe, and it is a popular choice for couples looking to tie the knot. The town’s idyllic location, stunning scenery, and fairy-tale charm make it a perfect destination for weddings, honeymoons, and romantic getaways. There are many wedding venues in the area, including the Bled Castle, churches, and hotels.

8. Bled Hosts an Annual World Rowing Championship

Bled is also famous for its sports events, and one of the most notable is the annual World Rowing Championship, which takes place on Bled Lake. The championship attracts rowers from all corners of the globe, and it is considered one of the most prestigious rowing competitions in the world. The event is held every year in late summer and draws thousands of visitors to the town.

9. Bled Has a Rich Cultural Heritage

Bled has a rich cultural heritage and is home to many important historical landmarks, museums, galleries, and cultural events. Visitors can enjoy the traditional Slovenian music and dance performances, attend art exhibitions, and explore the town’s history through its museums and monuments.

10. Bled is a Sustainable Destination

Bled is committed to sustainable tourism practices and has implemented many initiatives to reduce its environmental impact and preserve its natural heritage. Some of the measures include eco-friendly transportation, waste reduction programs, and sustainable energy practices. Bled has also been recognized as a Green Destination, a certification that acknowledges its efforts to promote sustainable tourism.

Conclusion

Bled is undoubtedly one of Slovenia’s most beautiful and fascinating destinations, and its popularity continues to grow among travelers from all over the world. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, adventure, or just relaxation, Bled has something for everyone. We hope this list of the 10 most interesting facts about Bled has inspired you to visit this unique and enchanting town and explore all it has to offer.