Considered Slovenia’s most picturesque location, Lake Bled is found in many folklore stories with one magical story claiming that Lake Bled was created by fairies. It tells of a lake that was once a valley covered in lush grass, where the fairies used to dance on the valley floor once night fell. Out of fear that they would be eaten by grazing sheep, the fairies flooded the valley and created a small island in the middle, creating a new location for their dance parties.
The exquisite blue-green lake, measuring just 1.4km by 2km, has a small teardrop island as its centrepiece and is surrounded by alpine mountains. The island is just under one acre in size and home to several buildings, including a 17th century church Scenic guests can visit. How do you get to the island, you ask? By pletna boat (gondola), a tradition passed down through local families for generations which dates back to 1590. The pletna boat will set you down on the south side at the monumental 99-step South Staircase, built in 1655.
This extension connects effortlessly with Jewels of Europe, Gems of the Danube, Black Sea Explorer, and Danube Delta Discovery river cruises.
If you are inspired by this journey of beauty through Ljubljana & Zagreb, speak with our expert team for more information on 2023 Europe river cruises.