The lake, of glacial and tectonic origin, is about 2 kilometres long and 1.4 kilometres wide. On its small island stands the Church of the Assumption, reached from the landing by a stairway of 99 stone steps; tradition says a groom should carry his bride up them on their wedding day. Above the northern shore rises Bled Castle, first mentioned in 1011 and the oldest Slovenian castle recorded in written sources.
The traditional way to reach the island is by pletna, a wooden, hand-rowed boat with a colourful canopy, steered by oarsmen standing at the stern; you can also hire a rowing boat. A gentle walk around the shore covers about 6 kilometres, and the castle, with its museum and terraces, offers superb views. Do not leave without trying the famous Bled cream cake (kremšnita).
Beautiful in every season, Lake Bled is an essential stop on any journey through Slovenia.
