Table of Contents
Introduction
Slovenia is a small European country tucked away between Italy, Austria, Hungary and Croatia. Though it covers just over 20,000 square kilometers, Slovenia packs in astounding diversity – from mountains and rivers to lakes and forests. Slovenia’s lakes are particularly enchanting, each with its own unique beauty and activities. In this article, we will explore some of Slovenia’s most stunning lakes that should feature on every traveler’s itinerary.
So why visit Slovenia’s lakes? From Lake Bled with its fairytale island church to the disappearing Cerknica Lake, Slovenia’s lakes offer breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures. Visitors can swim, boat, fish and partake in water sports at the larger lakes. Or enjoy hiking, cycling and wildlife viewing around the smaller alpine lakes. Slovenia’s lakes provide the perfect counterpoint after exploring lively cities like Ljubljana and Maribor. Add in the charming towns and villages dotted around the lakes, and it’s easy to see why Slovenia’s lakes are an unmissable highlight.
Lake Bled
Undoubtedly Slovenia’s most famous lake, Lake Bled looks like it popped right out of a storybook. Encircled by tall cliffs and forests, this glacial lake is situated in the Julian Alps region of northwest Slovenia. In the middle of Lake Bled sits Bled Island, home to the picturesque Church of the Assumption. To reach the island, visitors can ride a traditional wooden boat known as a pletna. Other highlights around Lake Bled include Bled Castle perched on a cliff overlooking the lake and the Ojstrica hill.
With its stunning setting, it’s no surprise that Lake Bled offers countless recreational activities. Visitors can swim, boat, fish and partake in other water sports on and around the lake. Many hiking trails wind around Lake Bled, like the walk to the Osojnica hill viewpoint. Cycling is also popular, ranging from casual pedaling to challenging climbs. For those seeking relaxation, spas, wellness centers and restaurants abound in Bled town. Whether appreciating the views, getting active outdoors or simply soaking up the atmosphere, Lake Bled has something for everyone.
Lake Bohinj
Less touristy and just as beautiful, Lake Bohinj is another sparkling Alpine lake not to miss in Slovenia. Situated in Triglav National Park in the northwest, Lake Bohinj is the largest permanent lake in Slovenia. Enclosed by the steep Bohinj mountains, Slovenia’s largest glacial valley creates a stunning setting. The clear, blue-green waters entice visitors to swim, boat, kayak and fish during the warmer months. Hiking and mountaineering are also popular with trails leading to spots like Savica Waterfall.
Compared to Lake Bled, Lake Bohinj offers a more relaxed vibe. The main town on the lake is Ribčev Laz, home to restaurants, shops and accommodation. Smaller villages like Ukanc and Bohinjska Bistrica dot the lake shores and provide gateways to the national park. Visitors can also ride the cable car up to the Vogel ski resort to admire panoramic views over Lake Bohinj. Whether appreciating the impressive mountain scenery or partaking in adventures, Lake Bohinj is a Slovenian treasure waiting to be explored.
Cerknica Lake
One of Slovenia’s most fascinating lakes is the Cerknica Lake or Lake Cerknica. Situated in southern Slovenia, Cerknica Lake has the unusual distinction of being an intermittent or disappearing lake. Cerknica polje is a vast field crossed by underground rivers. In the rainy season, Cerknica Lake fills the polje turning it into one huge lake. When dry, the water drains away into underground channels revealing grassy plains.
This unique phenomenon creates a highly biodiverse ecosystem. Cerknica Lake transforms into an important habitat for waterfowl and other animals when full. When dry, cows graze across the plains while water creatures retreat into puddles. Walking trails lead visitors around this changeable landscape. Another highlight is the Cerknica Polje Museum showcasing the lake’s history and wildlife. Beyond its changeable nature, Cerknica Lake is also one of Slovenia’s most picturesque lakes ringed by idyllic villages.
Lake Jasna
Nestled in the mountains near Kranjska Gora in northwest Slovenia is the small but lovely Lake Jasna. Thanks to its emerald-colored waters reflecting the surrounding peaks, Lake Jasna lives up to its name meaning “clear” in Slovenian. The lake measures just 1 km long and 0.5 km wide, but packs in plenty of natural beauty. Visitors can swim, boat, fish and enjoy other water sports during summer. Well-marked hiking and cycling trails wind around Lake Jasna as well, leading to scenic viewpoints.
With the Julian Alps and Triglav National Park on its doorstep, Lake Jasna offers an idyllic base to explore the area. The towns of Kranjska Gora and Rateče nearby provide restaurants, shops and other amenities. Whether boating on Lake Jasna, hiking in the mountains or simply admiring the views, Lake Jasna shines as a Slovenian jewel. Don’t miss the chance to experience its undeniable charms.
Blejsko Jezero
Also located near the popular town of Kranjska Gora is the smaller Blejsko Jezero. Translating to “Lake Bled”, Blejsko Jezero is sometimes confused with actual Lake Bled. But make no mistake – Blejsko Jezero has its own special allure. This glacial lake measures just 0.6 square km but packs a scenic punch. Surrounded by peaks like Prisank and Vitranc, the turquoise waters provide beautiful mountain reflections.
Outdoor enthusiasts will feel right at home at Lake Blejsko Jezero. Excellent hiking trails lead to viewpoints, waterfalls and mountain pastures. The lake is also open for swimming and boating during summer. Cycling, golf, fishing and hunting are other area activities. Lake Blejsko Jezero also provides easy access to Triglav National Park, Slovenia’s only national park. Visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails, rivers and high-mountain landscapes. For an alternative to Lake Bled, Lake Blejsko Jezero offers breathtaking scenery without the crowds.
Conclusion
Slovenia’s lakes showcase the country’s outstanding natural beauty in spades. From popular Lake Bled to the remote Cerknica Lake, each lake has its own charm and adventures. These enchanting lakes offer the perfect blend of beautiful mountain scenery, outdoor activities and charming villages. For travelers seeking epic scenery, unique sights and relaxing vibes, Slovenia’s lakes deliver. Whether boating, swimming, hiking or simply admiring the views, Slovenia’s lakes will cast their spell over you. Add these dazzling lakes to your Slovenia itinerary for an experience you won’t soon forget.
FAQs
What is the most famous lake in Slovenia?
The most famous lake in Slovenia is Lake Bled, renowned for its island church and picturesque setting in the Julian Alps. With its emerald-green waters and postcard views, it’s easy to see why Lake Bled is Slovenia’s most popular lake.
What is unique about Lake Cerknica?
The uniqueness of Lake Cerknica comes from its intermittent nature. Also called an intermittent or disappearing lake, Cerknica Lake periodically fills then drains via underground rivers in its karst system. This creates an ever-changing landscape and diverse ecosystem.
What activities can you do at Lake Bohinj?
Swimming, boating, kayaking, and fishing are popular summer activities at Lake Bohinj. Excellent hiking and cycling trails surround the lake as well. Visitors can also take a cable car up to Vogel ski resort for stunning views over the lake and mountains.
Which lake provides easy access to Triglav National Park?
Blejsko Jezero, or “Lake Bled”, is located right near the entrance to Triglav National Park in northwest Slovenia. Its proximity makes it a great base to explore Slovenia’s iconic national park.
Are all of Slovenia’s lakes located in the northwest?
No, while several of Slovenia’s most popular lakes are clustered in the northwest Julian Alps region, lakes are scattered around the country. For example, Cerknica Lake is located in southern Slovenia within the karst landscape.