Vogar Viewpoint Hike: Lake Bohinj’s Best Views
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.
When planning things to do around Lake Bohinj, I initially looked at cable car options. However, the price seemed steep just to see a viewpoint. Thankfully, I eventually came across the hike to Vogar Viewpoint, a moderately challenging hike with the reward of panoramic views over Lake Bohinj and the surrounding peaks.
In this guide, I'll share my experience hiking to Vogar viewpoint. Spoiler: I almost turned around 🫣 ~ I underestimated the heat of the day, but with a little self persuasion made it through.
Vogar Viewpoint Trail details
Difficulty: Moderate - Hard
Length: 6.1km (out-and-back)
Elevation gain: Approx. 485m
Vogar Viewpoint map: AllTrails
Time: Roughly 3 - 4 hours
Handy note: If you’re arriving by bus and getting off at the Bohinjsko Jezero/Lake stop, factor in an extra 4–5 km for the walk to and from the trailhead in Stara Fužina.
Trail conditions: The route is a very rocky uphill ascent for around 2 hours. Most of the trail is shaded, with around 80% of the hike passing through forest, which helps on very hot days.
Starting the hike from Lake Bohinj
After getting off the bus at Lake Bohinj, it was a clear, warm day, and I set off towards Stara Fužina, ready to hike up to one of the best viewpoints over Lake Bohinj.
Before I turn into a sweaty mess
The walk to the trailhead takes around 20–25 minutes. As I made my way through the village, the temperature steadily rose, and I could feel the heat building as the climb approached.
Along the way, I followed the signs and met a couple heading towards Mostnica Gorge. Most people seemed to be turning off in that direction, and for a moment I wondered if I should change my route.
Did I bring enough water? Would it be too hot for this hike?
Knowing that it was mostly shaded and I could refill my bottle at the top, I decided to carry on anyway and continue to the start of the trail.
Not long after, I came across a group of cows grazing in the meadows, their bells echoing through the valley. It was a serene moment before the climb.
Cows grazing on grass and bells ringing
Chillin’ out in the afternoon
Beginning the hike route to Vogar Viewpoint
For the next 1.5–2 hours, the trail steadily climbs through dense forest, mostly in shade. I was glad I had packed snacks and sweets, especially in the heat, as there are no places to stop until you reach the restaurant at the top.
Directions to Vogar Viewpoint are pretty straightforward. Follow the red dots; it’s one trail until the first viewpoint, so you can’t really get lost until the top.
This is more or less the trail for 2 hours. The photos don’t do the incline justice.
It’s not a massively touristy trail. I probably passed around a dozen hikers on the way up, with a few more at the viewpoint itself.
At times, it feels like it goes on… and on… and on… zigzagging through the dense forest.
Then, eventually, the first gaps appear through the trees with a glimpse of Lake Bohinj below.
Just. Keep. Going.
Lake Bohinj from the first viewpoint
Et… Voila!
I made it to my first viewpoint, Spodnji Vogar, where the paragliders launch from the ridge.
And I made it just in time for take off!
From Spodnji Vogar, the trail opens up into one of the best viewpoints over Lake Bohinj. The forest drops away, and the water looks completely still, with subtle shifts in colour depending on the light and cloud cover.
I watched the paragliders joke around and drift out into the valley. What an amazing way to spend the day!
I continued towards Vogar Viewpoint. From here, the trail levels out and becomes easier as it approaches the restaurant.
In a bit of a daze from the climb, I almost walked straight past the restaurant before backtracking to refill my water bottle and properly turn off towards Vogar.
And I made it. Yay!
More paragliders were swooping over Lake Bohinj as I arrived, and the views opened up across the valley. There aren’t many people up there, so I had the viewpoint to myself for a while before meeting a British couple who kindly offered to take a few photos for me.
Satisfied and content, I spent some time sitting on the bench just taking everything in.
The perfect spot to chill!
Lake Bohinj from Vogar Viewpoint
From here, you hike back the way you came. I decided to go to the restaurant for some pancakes before my hike back down. I had a feeling I’d need the sugar 😅.
The hike down is a lot easier, but it can be tough on your knees if they’re sensitive. Hiking poles would be useful if you have them.
On the way back to Stara Fužina, I enjoyed the views over the valleys as I retraced my steps back to Lake Bohinj.
At the bus stop, I met three British women who had spent the day swimming in Lake Bohinj. They mentioned Rustika, a pizza place in Lake Bled, which sounded exactly like what I needed after a long hike.
Was Vogar Viewpoint worth the hike?
Yes! Although I’m not in a rush to do it again 😅
But the views from the top of Lake Bohinj were incredible!
It’s an easy day trip from Lake Bled, but if I were to do it again, I’d probably stay in Lake Bohinj itself. I had considered it initially, but chose Bled for its stronger transport connections.
I wonder what it looks like in the winter…
Tips for Vogar Viewpoint
Refill your water bottle
There are a few opportunities to refill your water bottle along the route, including near the car park and at the restaurant near the top.
Parking
If you're travelling by car, there are a couple of parking spaces in front of the trailhead. Alternatively, you can park down the road and walk to the start of the trail.
Bring food and snacks
I didn't pack a full lunch, but I was glad I brought plenty of snacks and sweets to keep my energy up during the climb.
Sun protection
Even though much of the trail runs through forest, don’t skip sunscreen!
Hiking poles (optional)
I noticed many hikers using them on this trail. It would definitely be easier on your knees going downhill.
Prioritise going early in the morning
I'd recommend starting as early as you can. I caught the bus just past 9 am from Bled to Lake Bohinj, but due to delays, I didn't begin walking towards Stara Fužina until around 10:30 am and didn't start the hike itself until close to 11 am.
The forest shade helps, but the climb still felt hot by midday. An earlier start would definitely help and leave plenty of time afterwards to relax by Lake Bohinj or go for a swim.
When you’ve got places you need to be…
Where to stay in Lake Bohinj
If you're looking for a quieter alternative to Lake Bled, several accommodation options around Lake Bohinj make a great base for exploring Triglav National Park.
While Lake Bled tends to be the hot spot, Lake Bohinj has a more relaxed vibe with easy access to hiking trails, swim spots, viewpoints, and adventure activities.
Apartments Vila Jelka
Located in Stara Fužina, these apartments are ideally placed for exploring the area. You're within walking distance of Lake Bohinj, the Vogar Viewpoint trailhead, and Mostnica Gorge, making it a great base for hikers.
The apartments are spacious and well-located, with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
Hotel Gasperin Bohinj
Located in Ribčev Laz, just a short walk from Lake Bohinj, Hotel Gasperin is a great base for exploring Triglav National Park. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, a generous breakfast, and easy access to hiking trails, water activities, and restaurants.
Where to stay in Lake Bled
For my visit, I stayed in Lake Bled, within walking distance of the lake, which worked out as a convenient base for nearby day trips.
Here are some accommodation options to consider for your stay in Lake Bled.
Apartments & Rooms Aleksandra
I loved my stay here! Zdenka, the host, was really communicative and provided a lot of detailed information. She even gave me a lift to the train station on my departure.
The property is located in a quiet residential area of Bled, about a 15-20 minute walk from the main bus station and approximately 45 minutes on foot from Vintgar Gorge. It worked well as a base for exploring both Bled and the surrounding area.
Castle way Apartments Tamy
In a great location very close to the lake and within a few minutes walking distance to all the bars and restaurants, the apartments are spacious and well-equipped.
Lakeview Villa Bled
Lakeview Villa Bled offers apartments with terraces or balconies and is conveniently located closer to the lake. Amenities include a spa and wellness centre, sauna, and fitness centre.
Ready to plan your trip? Here are some of my favourite travel suggestions.
Booking.com: For the best hotel deals! 🏝
World Nomads: Travel insurance on the go 🌎
Favourite travel items: Some of my go-to travel essentials ✈️
*Affiliate links above!
Mandatory Disclaimer: We receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.
Other posts you might like…
Vintgar Gorge, Slovenia: Top Tips for Your Visit
Winding through the limestone cliffs of Triglav National Park, the emerald waters of Vintgar Gorge, 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.
Here are my top tips for visiting Vintgar Gorge.
Hiking the Soča Trail in Slovenia: Everything You Need to Know
In this guide, I'll share my experience hiking the Soča Trail, including seasonal bus routes, trail conditions, and whether it's worth adding to your Slovenia itinerary.
How to Travel Slovenia Without a Car: A 7-Day Itinerary Using Public Transport
When I started looking for a hiking destination in Europe, I wanted somewhere with mountain scenery, easy access to hiking trails, walkable towns, and reliable public transport.
Here’s a guide on how I travelled Slovenia using only public transport.
Hiking to Virje Waterfall: A Rainy Day in Bovec
I woke up to heavy rain and thunderstorms that lingered throughout the morning. But by early afternoon, the clouds began to clear, and patches of blue sky appeared.
Here’s my guide to hiking Slap Virje.