Lake Bled feels like it belongs in the opening chapter of a fairytale. Surrounded by picturesque hills, a clifftop castle, and the peaks of the Julian Alps, it's easy to see why it's a must-do on anyone’s Slovenia itinerary…

During my stay in Bled, hiking to these viewpoints was one of the highlights of my trip. Here's what to expect from each trail and which viewpoint I think offers the best view of Lake Bled.

Lake Bohinj, often seen as a quieter alternative to Lake Bled, is a glacial lake nestled within Triglav National Park. Surrounded by dense forest and steep alpine peaks, the blue-green waters often shimmer with the reflection of the surrounding mountains.

Winding through the limestone cliffs of Triglav National Park, the emerald waters of Vintgar Gorge (Soteska Vintgar), and the sounds of the rushing Radovna River take you to what feels like a completely different world just a short distance from Lake Bled.

When you're travelling long distances overland, taking an overnight bus is a budget-friendly way to get from A to B. I used night buses a lot throughout South America and whilst they were daunting at first, they can save you accommodation for a night and give you more time to explore a destination during the day.