Slovenia

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.

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.

If you're looking for an easy walk in Bovec after rain, or wondering what to do on a rainy day in the Soča Valley, the Slap Virje trail is a great option. The waterfall is a lovely experience, the route is straightforward, and it can easily be completed in an afternoon.

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.