Bled is a lovely alpine resort, located in Slovenia. It has a 130 year old successful tradition of attracting tourists from all over Europe to its majestic mountainous regions, and its popularity has never ever dimmed through the ages.

The Birth of Tourism

A man name Arnold Rikli, recognized the immense possibilities that this town held in the name of tourism, and started organizing swimming, sunbathing, and other kinds of fresh air activities way back in 1855. It was not long before this pretty little resort town earned fame as a curative treatment centre, and also as a hotspot of natural beauty. The combination of a great climate, healing waters, and panoramic surroundings has guaranteed a steady influx of tourists throughout the year.

Some of the prominent guests that Bled has hosted over the ages are the likes of Agatha Christie and Arthur Miller. Today, this town is the most vibrant symbol of tourism in Slovenia.

Places of Interest

Lake Bled is not only one of the main tourist attractions of Bled but also of Slovenia. This glacier lake measures 2120 in length and more than 1380 in breadth. Set against the backdrop of forests and mountains, the lake looks straight out of some fairytale. In the summer, the lake is a popular sporting destination as it becomes a premium destination for rowing

The Good Luck Church, is another prime attraction of this town, and is located in the center of Lake Bled, on an island that dates back to prehistoric times. Ringing the bell of this church is supposed to bring good luck.

The Surroundings

Places of great scenic beauty surround Bled and are some of the main reasons why tourists visit this endearing resort. Four kilometers north-west of Bled Island lies the Vintgar Gorge, which snakes its way through rocks, waterfalls, pools, and rapids.

The Pokljuka gorge is one of the biggest fossil gorges in Slovenia, and known for its great beauty. Situated at some distance from the resort town, it is quiet and peaceful and a must visit on every tourist itinerary.

Other natural attractions around Bled include the Triglavski National park and the Pokljuka plateau. Both these places are akin to paradise on earth, and leave an indelible impression on one's mind.

Little Known Facts

The quaint little alpine town of Bled has a distinct charm of its own. When you are on visit to this tourist attraction, you must not forget to savor the 'kremna rezina' or in English, the vanilla cream pastry. It is a specialty, of this town as are the 99 steps that are a part of Bled Island. It is customary for the new bridegroom to carry his new bride up these stairs and through this time, the bride must remain completely silent.

All in all, this is one place that you must not miss, and it truly is a gem of a tourist destination. It has an innate sense of mystery, adventure, and beauty associated with it, which envelops visitors as soon as they enter this alpine resort. It's one of the prime attractions of Slovenia, and is sure to captivate you with its brilliant beauty.