The majestic Lake Bled, surrounded by the Julian Alps, is perhaps one of the most beautiful lakes in Europe. In winter, it transforms into a magical winter wonderland.
Slovenia’s Lake Bled is a popular spot among people interrailing and European travellers throughout the summer months. However, you may not know that there are also plenty of reasons to visit Lake Bled in winter.
Known for its jaw-dropping views, famous island church, glacial lake, and the surrounding Julian Alps, this is the perfect spot to visit at any time of the year.
So, if you’re wondering where to travel during the cold winter months, why not consider the stunning Lake Bled for a truly unforgettable experience?
5. Avoid the crowds – a quieter time of year
Lake Bled is an incredibly popular destination all year round. However, this is especially true at the height of summer.
If you decide to visit in the depths of winter, one of the major benefits will be enjoying a quieter and more relaxed experience, free from the crowds that descend on the area during summer.
Due to the lower levels of tourists taking winter holidays in the area, you can also take advantage of lower accommodation prices if you decide to book a stay at this time of year.
Overall, getting to avoid the crowds is one of the main reasons to visit Lake Bled in winter, as you might end up having an even more enjoyable time for a much lower cost!
4. Experience the Legend of the Sunken Bell – Lake Bled’s famous winter tradition
If you decide to visit over Christmas, you need to check out the famous Legend of the Sunken Bell.
A popular Slovenian tradition, spectators gather around Lake Bled every 25 December to watch divers recover a lit-up bell from the lake.
Honouring the famous Slovenian tale of a robbery at Bled Castle, the tradition is a popular festive activity in the area and a truly magical experience to witness.
Today, visitors ring the bell three times, making a wish in the hopes that it will be granted. A once-in-a-lifetime experience and a great way to soak up the local culture.
3. The Bled Christmas Market – the perfect festive activity
If you want to soak up the festive spirit, then the Bled Christmas Market is undoubtedly one of the main reasons to visit Lake Bled in winter.
European Christmas markets truly are in a league of their own, and the Festive Lakeside Promenade here really is no exception.
Open every day from the end of November, the market can be found near the famous landmark of the Heart of Bled. So, you really can’t miss it.
One of the major draws to this magical town during the winter months, the market is home to plenty of fantastic local foods, crafts, drinks, and more.
2. Take in the stunning winter landscape – a magical winter wonderland
From the frozen lake to the snow-capped mountains, Lake Bled somehow becomes even more beautiful in the winter months.
Known for its breathtaking natural beauty and panoramic views, this area transforms into something from a fairytale book in the depths of winter.
Gaze up at the surrounding Julian Alps covered in a layer of fresh snow, as the fantastic medieval castle looks over the surrounding area, or even have a go at ice skating on the frozen lake.
This Alpine town is known for its beautiful views all year long. However, visiting in winter offers a truly romantic experience.
1. Enjoy the fun winter activities – perfect for outdoor enthusiasts
One of the main reasons to visit Lake Bled in winter is undoubtedly the vast array of winter sports activities on offer. If you’re a fan of skiing, you can purchase a Julian Alps ski pass that grants you access to the 14 ski resorts in the area.
We can think of nothing more magical than taking in the stunning views all around as you speed down the picturesque snow-capped mountains.
From Vogel, perhaps the most popular ski resort in Slovenia, to Kranjska Gora and Straža Hill, cross-country skiing at Pokljuka, and more, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to options for skiing here.
Straža Hill even offers night skiing, equipment rental, and a children’s snow park. Thus, making it the perfect destination for all ages and abilities.
Skiing isn’t the only activity you can take advantage of during the colder months. You can try ice skating on the lake itself, sledging and snowboarding in the mountains, and even catch an ice hockey game!
As well as all the winter activities on offer, all the major attractions in the Slovenian town remain open all year long.
So, even if you’re visiting in the cold winter months, you can check out the famous island church, the iconic Bled Castle, and Predjama Castle.
Notable mentions
Enjoy delicious Slovenian cuisine: From the original Bled Cream Cake to Jota and cosy warming hot chocolates, Slovenian cuisine is one of the main draws of visiting during the winter months.
Make the most of the nearby spas: There are plenty of fantastic spas in the surrounding area to warm you up from a cold day out at the lake. Offering a range of beauty treatments and spa facilities, all with amazing views, this is the perfect place to pamper yourself.
Lake Bohinj: Seeing Lake Bohinj in the winter is truly a stunning sight to behold.
Triglav National Park: Triglav National Park is Slovenia’s only national park. It is a wonderful winter activity and the sights are out of this world.
FAQs about visiting Lake Bled in winter
Does it snow in Lake Bled in December?
Yes! Lake Bled is normally covered in snow from late November until February.
Is Slovenia nice in winter?
Yes! While Slovenia proves popular in summer, it transforms into a magical winter wonderland in winter.
How do I get from Ljubljana to Bled?
The easiest option is to get the Ljubljana to Lake Bled bus, which costs around €7 and takes about one hour and 20 minutes.
