Travel Russia Today

Slovenia seems to slide under the radar for most people traveling to central Europe. If you ask anyone brave enough to guess they will usually assume it is one of the previously war torn countries of the Balkans but most people will have no clue as to its whereabouts or its existence.

But Slovenia is an absolute gem. Hidden between Austria and Croatia it offers some of the most gorgeous scenery to be found and is worth a stop in any itinerary. A short 35 minute flight from Vienna (or 90 minute drive from Zagreb) takes you to Ljubljana the capital of Slovenia. But the brightest point in the gem is Lake Bled.

A dreary day will provide dramatic views as the clouds form a table cloth over the mountains but on a clear sunny day you are surely in for a treat. This is the stuff of postcards! The Julian Alps loom high over the lake and when conditions are right the lake traps them and reflects the majestic image on the calm surface.

While summer is more likely to guarantee better weather, the spring and fall mean less crowds. Strolling along the lake side with this magnificent backdrop will forever be remembered.

And there is more to do than just stroll and gaze at the breathing scenery. A medieval castle, complete with drawbridge and moat and that dates back to 1004, keeps watch from the top of the cliffs on the north shore and is worth a visit. In the courtyard you will find Dickensian stores with artists who still practice traditional manual printing techniques with a wooden press. Warm summer nights often feature classical concerts under perfect star lit skies.

The other main attraction here sits in the middle of the lake on Slovenia’s only natural island – the Pilgrimage Church of the Assumption of Mary. A Pletna carries you across the lake and 99 stone steps (or a more gentle rampway) take you up to the church. It is traditional for grooms to carry their new brides up the 99 steps to ensure a happy marriage and fun to watch them try. Once inside the church ringing the bell will fulfill one of your wishes – only one wish per ring please!

End the day with a delicious sundae or ice cold Zlatorog (the local beer) at one of the local sidewalk cafes and as you watch the world go by you will understand how you happened upon one of the lesser known but remarkable sites of central Europe.