Slovenia is often overlooked in favour of its more popular neighbours, Austria and Italy. But this small country packs a punch when it comes to natural beauty, and its lakes are no exception. From Lake Bled to the lesser-known gems of Slovenia, this blog post will guide you through the best lakes to explore. Read on to discover why Slovenia’s lakes are some of Europe’s best-kept secrets.
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Introduction to Slovenia’s Lakes
Slovenia is a small country located in the heart of Europe, bordered by Austria, Croatia, and Italy. It is a hidden gem of the region, boasting stunning landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and vast forests. The country is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, with its lakes offering a variety of activities and attractions.
The country is home to over 200 lakes, each with its own unique beauty. From the glacial waters of Lake Bled to the serene Lake Cerknica, Slovenia has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure-filled experience, Slovenia’s lakes offer plenty to explore.
Lake Bled – Overview and Things to Do
Lake Bled is one of the most popular lakes in Slovenia. It is a stunning glacial lake located in the Julian Alps, surrounded by breath-taking mountain views. The lake is well known for its picturesque island in the middle, accessible by renting your own rowing boat or taking a Pletna.
The lake is a popular tourist destination, offering a variety of activities such as swimming, kayaking, and stand-up paddle boarding. You can also explore the nearby Vintgar Gorge, visit the Bled Castle, or take a guided tour of the lake.
For a unique experience, take a boat to the island in the middle of the lake. Here, you can admire the beautiful church and ring the bell, said to bring good luck. The island is also a popular spot for picnicking and swimming.
We can’t recommend a trip to Lake Bled enough, we really do believe it is one of the most beautiful spots in the whole of Europe.
If you’d like to know more about the best things to do at Lake Bled, then check out our blog post where we go into more detail – What To Do At Lake Bled ( Top 6 Things To Do )
Swimming at Lake Bled
Swimming is one of the most popular activities at Lake Bled. The lake’s crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, and the surrounding mountains offer stunning views. There are bathing areas set up around the lake, and the water in the lake is so clean that it has been ranking among the highest quality bathing areas in Slovenia for years.
The lake is also a great spot for stand-up paddle boarding, with plenty of rentals available. Visitors can also take a pletna boat to the island in the middle of the lake, where they can swim or explore the beautiful church.
The Best Lakes in Slovenia – From Lake Bohinj to Lake Cerknica
In addition to Lake Bled, there are many other stunning lakes in Slovenia. Lake Bohinj is a popular destination for hikers and outdoors lovers, with its stunning emerald waters and surrounding mountains. The lake is also a great spot for swimming, kayaking, and stand-up paddle boarding.
The stunning Lake Cerknica is another popular destination. It is a karst lake, meaning it is formed by underground springs and streams. The lake is surrounded by lush green forests and offers plenty of opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and fishing.
The Soca Valley is also a popular destination for lake lovers. This stunning valley is home to several lakes, including the Blue Lake, which is said to be the most beautiful lake in Slovenia. The valley is also a popular spot for kayaking, fishing, and other outdoor activities.
Lake Bohinj
Lake Bohinj is a stunning alpine lake located in Slovenia in the Julian Alps. It is the largest permanent lake in the country and is a popular tourist destination for visitors from all around the world.
The lake is around 4 km long and 1 km wide, and is fed and drained by the nearby Savica River. Lake Bohinj is surrounded by lush forests and majestic mountains, making it a truly beautiful spot. The lake is a popular spot for many outdoor activities such as swimming, kayaking, hiking and fishing.
Swimming in the lake is a popular activity during the summer months, and there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the crystal clear waters of the lake. Kayaking is also a great way to explore the lake and its surroundings, and there are plenty of rental services available.
The lake is also perfect for fishing, and there are various boat rental services available to make the experience even more enjoyable. For hikers, there are plenty of trails around the lake, and the surrounding mountain peaks offer spectacular views of the area.
Lake Bohinj is also a popular winter destination, offering skiing, snowboarding and other winter activities. The lake is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and there are plenty of cosy mountain cabins available to rent. The lake is also home to various wildlife, including otters, ducks and fish, making it a great spot for nature lovers.
We got the Vogel Cable Car from Lake Bohinj up the mountain to do skiing in the Winter and it was a lot of fun. You can see more in our YouTube video below –
Hidden Gems of Slovenia’s Lakes
Slovenia’s lakes are not just limited to the popular destinations. There are plenty of hidden gems to explore, from the mysterious Lake Zbilje to the remote Lake Ledava. Each of these lakes has its own unique beauty and offers plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy.
Lake Zbilje is a stunning lake located just outside of Ljubljana. It is a popular spot for swimming and kayaking, and its crystal-clear waters are perfect for fishing. The lake also has an old castle, which is now a museum, where visitors can learn about the area’s history.
Lake Ledava is another hidden gem. It is a secluded lake located in the remote Soca Valley, surrounded by lush green forests. The lake is perfect for fishing, swimming, and kayaking, and its remoteness makes it a great spot for a peaceful getaway.
How to Get to Slovenia’s Lakes
Slovenia’s lakes are easy to access, with most of them being within a few hours’ drive from the capital city Ljubljana. The most popular destination, Lake Bled, is just an hour’s drive from the city. Other lakes, such as Lake Bohinj and Lake Cerknica, are also within easy reach.
Slovenia is also well connected to its neighbours, Austria and Italy, by road and rail. This makes it easy to access the country’s lakes from both countries.
Best Time to Visit Slovenia’s Lakes
The best time to visit Slovenia’s lakes is during the summer months, from June to August. During this time, the weather is mild and the days are long, making it perfect for exploring the country’s lakes.
However, visitors should note that some of the lakes can get quite busy during this time, especially Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj. If you’re looking for a quieter experience, it’s best to visit during the spring or autumn months.
Activities to Enjoy at Slovenia’s Lakes
Slovenia’s lakes offer plenty of activities for everyone to enjoy. From swimming to kayaking, there’s something for everyone.
For those looking for a relaxing experience, swimming is a popular activity. Most of the lakes are perfect for swimming, with crystal-clear waters and stunning views.
Kayaking is another popular activity, and many of the lakes have kayak rentals available. For those looking for a more adventurous experience, stand-up paddle boarding is also an option.
Fishing is another popular activity, with many of the lakes offering excellent fishing spots.
Accommodation Options at Slovenia’s Lakes
Slovenia’s lakes offer plenty of accommodation options. From hotels to campsites, there’s something for everyone.
For those travelling in a motorhome or campervan like we do, there are plenty of campsites located around the lakes. The campsites are a great option for those looking to explore the outdoors, with plenty of activities available.
Hotels are a popular choice, with plenty of options available at Lake Bled and the other popular lakes. The hotels offer a variety of amenities, from swimming pools to on-site restaurants.
Strunjan Nature Pak, Moon Bay
Strunjan Nature Pak in Moon Bay, Slovenia is a stunningly beautiful place. It is a paradise for nature lovers, with its pristine lakes, miles of coastline, and lush forests. It is a great spot for a weekend getaway, or for a longer vacation.
The Nature Pak is located in the Slovenian region of Primorska, and it is known for its unspoiled nature, which is a rare find in this area. The Pak is part of the Strunjan Landscape Park, which is one of the most important protected areas in Slovenia. The Strunjan Nature Pak covers an area of over 1,100 hectares and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna.
The Moon Bay area is known for its stunning lakes. The lakes here are crystal clear and provide a great opportunity to explore the area. There are several hiking trails in the park, and activities such as swimming, fishing, and bird watching.
The Strunjan Nature Pak also offers a variety of cultural activities and events. There are several cultural centers in the area, where visitors can learn about the culture and history of the region. You can also take part in traditional Slovenian festivals, such as the Kranjska Godba, which takes place in the summer.
The Strunjan Nature Pak is a great destination for those who want to experience the beauty of nature in Slovenia. With its pristine lakes, miles of coastline, and lush forests, it is a great place to explore and relax. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, the Moon Bay area is a great choice.
Velenje Lake
Velenje Lake is a beautiful lake located in the city of Velenje, Slovenia. It is an artificial lake, created by the damming of the Paka river in 1952.
It is the largest lake in Slovenia, covering an area of 6.7 square kilometers and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. The lake has a rich and diverse ecosystem, with a variety of flora and fauna living in and around it.
It is home to a wide variety of fish, including carp, pike, zander, and trout. There are also a number of bird species living in or near the lake, such as ducks, geese, herons, and swans.
The lake is renowned for its stunning scenery, with lush forests, meadows, and rolling hills all around it. There are a number of walking trails around the lake, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore its beauty. There are also a number of boat tours available to take, allowing you to experience the lake from a different perspective.
The lake is also a popular spot for swimming, with a number of designated swimming areas, as well as a number of beaches to enjoy. There is also a popular water sports centre on the lake, offering activities such as windsurfing and sailing.
Velenje Lake is a popular tourist destination and is a great place to visit for anyone looking to explore the beauty of Slovenia. Its diverse ecosystem makes it a great place to observe wildlife, while its scenic beauty makes it a great spot for photography. There is plenty to do on and around the lake, making it a great place to spend a day or two.
Kocevje Lake
Kocevje lake is a wonderful natural sight to behold in Slovenia. It known for its crystal clear waters and stunning surroundings. The lake is located in Kocevje, a small town in south-eastern Slovenia, and is a popular destination for tourists.
The lake is quite large, and is surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills. It is a great spot for swimming and other water sports, and you can often spot various kinds of wildlife in and around the lake. The lake is also home to a variety of birds, such as ducks, swans, and geese, which can be seen swimming and wading in the waters.
The Kocevje lake is an important habitat for many species of fish and other aquatic creatures. Some of the fish found in the lake include carp, pike, perch, and barbel. The lake is also a popular spot for anglers, who often come to the area to catch a variety of fish.
The Kocevje lake is a great place to relax, and there are plenty of activities to do in the area. If you are the adventurous type, it is possible to take part in various water sports, such as kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. People can also go for a relaxing stroll around the lake, or explore the nearby forests and meadows.
The Kocevje lake is a popular destination for visitors to Slovenia, and is a great place to enjoy a peaceful and relaxing holiday. It is a stunning lake, and its crystal clear waters and lush surroundings make it a perfect spot to spend some quality time.
Lake Ledava
Lake Ledava is one of the most beautiful and popular lakes in Slovenia. It is located in the Bohinj Valley, in the Julian Alps, and is part of the Triglav National Park.
It is the deepest lake in the country and one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. The lake’s name originates from the Slovenian word for “the great lake”. It is the sixth-largest lake in the country and is surrounded by a variety of natural wonders, including the Julian Alps, the Karavanke mountain range, and the Pokljuka mountain plateau.
The lake was formed as a result of the powerful glacial erosion, and its shape is a result of the ice age. Its crystal clear waters are rich in fish, and are home to five species of salmon and trout, as well as brown trout, lake trout, and the European catfish. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery, and provides visitors with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
There is an abundance of wildlife in the area, including foxes, deer, badgers, lynxes, and wolves. The lake is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers, and is an excellent spot for swimming, fishing, and kayaking.
Lake Ledava is an important natural site for the locals, and a popular tourist destination for visitors from around the world. The lake provides a unique and tranquil environment, and is a great place to relax and enjoy nature. So if you’re looking for a great lake to visit in Slovenia, Lake Ledava is definitely worth considering.
Lake Cerknica
Lake Cerknica is a unique and fascinating lake located in the southwestern part of Slovenia. It is a intermittent lake, meaning that it fills with water during the rainy season and becomes completely dry during the dry season.
It is the largest intermittent lake in Europe, and its basin covers an area of about 34 square kilometres. During the rainy season, the lake can expand to cover an area of up to 29 square kilometres, making it one of the largest natural lakes in Slovenia.
The lake is surrounded by mountains, and the landscape is filled with rolling hills and forests. Its unique water cycle is regulated by a combination of underground springs and karst streams, as well as a network of canals and reservoirs.
The lake is also home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, fish, amphibians, and mammals.
One of the most interesting aspects of Lake Cerknica is its geological history. It was formed during the Pleistocene period, between 1.8 million and 11,000 years ago, when the area was covered by a glacial lake. As the glaciers melted, the lake began to recede and the area was eventually filled with sediment.
Over time, the lake completely dried out, leaving behind a network of underground streams, springs, and reservoirs that still exist today. The lake and its surrounding area are a popular spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, such as swimming, canoeing, and fishing. The lake is also a popular destination for birdwatchers, as it is home to a variety of species.
There are also several trails that lead to the lake, allowing visitors to explore the area and take in the breath-taking scenery.
Lake Cerknica is a fascinating and unique lake, and it is an important part of Slovenia’s natural landscape. Its unique water cycle, geological history, and diverse wildlife make it a must-see destination for nature lovers. It is also a great spot for outdoor activities, with plenty of opportunities to explore the area and take in the stunning scenery.
Lake Zbilje
Lake Zbilje is a beautiful lake located in the northern part of Slovenia. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country and is renowned for its stunning natural beauty.
The lake is an important part of the Slovenian culture and history. It has been used since ancient times as a source of food and water, as well as providing recreation and relaxation. The lake is also used as a source of hydroelectricity, with a dam at its southern end providing power to the nearby towns.
Lake Zbilje is a popular spot for fishing, swimming, and boating. Anglers love to fish for the abundant trout and carp in the lake, while swimmers can enjoy the clear and refreshing waters. Boaters can explore the lake in both motorboats and sailboats, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. There are also plenty of opportunities for bird watching, as the lake is home to a large variety of bird species.
The lake is a great place for a family outing or a romantic getaway. Visitors can take in the amazing views, take a stroll along the lake’s shore and enjoy the many activities available. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes near the lake, offering delicious local cuisine and drinks. For those looking for an adventure, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking and camping in the area.
Lake Zbilje is a wonderful destination for anyone looking to explore the beauty of Slovenia. With its stunning views and abundance of activities, it is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the natural wonders of the country. Whether you are looking for a family outing or a romantic getaway, Lake Zbilje is sure to provide a memorable experience.
Conclusion
Slovenia’s lakes are some of Europe’s best-kept secrets. From the stunning glacial waters of Lake Bled to the remote Lake Ledava, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure-filled experience, Slovenia’s lakes offer plenty of activities and attractions. So, if you’re looking for a hidden gem, head to Slovenia and discover its lakes for yourself.
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I have always wanted to travel and luckily I always got to travel to some amazing countries while I was growing up with my family and this really encouraged me to continue this and get out into the world on my own when I was older.
My goal growing up was really to see as much of the world as I could, but then I started going to work and really concentrating on my career and travel took a back seat. I still tried to get away a few times a year but I always knew there was an end goal which was to travel as much as possible.
So I got my head down and worked as hard as I could as an e-commerce manager. I have always been techy, I love computers and websites, so that’s where it gave me the idea to start this blog and also have my own web design agency. If you want to check it out or need any help then please take a look rrwebdesign.co.uk (shameless plug there)
But after covid, we both knew this was now the right time to take the leap and go and see the world after being trapped inside our house and working from home for a couple of years. We realised more than ever that you only get one life and you really need to make the most of it and do what you love!
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