The alpine valley of Bohinj is a truly idyllic landscape, steep mountains rise above quaint villages and lush pastures, and at the end of the valley, in the Triglav National Park, is the spectacular Lake Bohinj – the largest permanent lake in Slovenia.
The glacial lake’s fresh crystal clear waters are popular with swimmers in summer, whilst it’s just one of the many natural attractions to see and then there are also countless outdoor activities on offer. As well as the rich nature heritage, there are also plenty of opportunities to get in touch with local history and culture – perhaps drop by a traditional cheese maker, visit some of the museums and cute churches dotted throughout the valley, or go to a gostilna to try some local specialties. Despite being just 30 minutes’ drive west of the tourist Mecca Bled, Bohinj feels more isolated and rural, delightfully less developed – it is quiet (nightlife is basically non-existent), restaurants and accommodation tend to be more down to earth and people here are attentive and helpful. Bohinj is a great place for a day trip from Bled and an excellent year round destination in its own right, ski at one of several resorts in the vicinity, enjoy an active holiday with the family or have a romantic getaway in this beautiful setting.
Exploring lake Bohinj and its surroundings:
Lake Bohinj (Bohinjsko Jezero)
Nestled in the heart of the Gorenjska region, Lake Bohinj is often hailed as one of Slovenia’s most stunning natural wonders. This serene alpine lake, set against the backdrop of the Julian Alps, is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and tranquility seekers alike. Early mornings are the best time to experience the lake’s ethereal beauty, as the first light of dawn casts a magical glow over the still waters. During the off-season, the mist enveloping the lake’s banks adds an extra layer of mystique, making it an ideal spot for reflection and rejuvenation. The area is incredibly peaceful, with only the sounds of birdsong and the occasional splash of fish breaking the silence. For those who appreciate solitude and natural beauty, Lake Bohinj offers an unparalleled experience.
Vogel Ski Centre
Vogel Ski Centre is renowned not just for its excellent skiing facilities but also for its breathtaking panoramic views. Perched high above Lake Bohinj, Vogel provides an unparalleled vantage point of the Julian Alps and the surrounding landscapes. While it’s a popular destination in winter for skiing and snowboarding, Vogel is equally impressive during the warmer months. The ski slopes transform into vibrant meadows filled with wildflowers, and the chairlift ride offers stunning vistas year-round. The summit is accessible via a convenient chairlift, and visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and savoring local cuisine at the on-site restaurant. With its diverse range of activities and spectacular views, Vogel is a year-round destination that caters to all types of outdoor enthusiasts. For more details, you can contact them at +386 (0)4 5729 712 or visit their website at www.vogel.si.
Savica Waterfall (Slap Savica)
No visit to Lake Bohinj is complete without witnessing the majestic Savica Waterfall. This natural wonder cascades down a dramatic 78 meters into a picturesque pool below, surrounded by lush forest. The hike to the waterfall, which takes about an hour, is well worth the effort. The trail is steep but manageable, offering glimpses of the surrounding forest and occasional views of the lake. Once at the waterfall, the sight and sound of the rushing water provide a truly awe-inspiring experience. The waterfall has been celebrated in Slovenian literature and continues to be a favorite among visitors. There is a small entrance fee to access the site, which helps maintain its beauty and accessibility. For more information, contact Bohinjsko Jezero at +386 (0)4 574 60 10 or visit www.bohinj-info.com.
Pokljuka Plateau
For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, the Pokljuka Plateau offers a pristine escape into Slovenia’s alpine wilderness. This glacier-formed plateau, shrouded in dense spruce forests, sits at an elevation of 1000-1400 meters. Pokljuka is known for its cross-country skiing tracks and biathlon center, which have hosted international competitions. In addition to its winter sports facilities, the plateau features moderate hiking trails that provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape. On clear days, the plateau is a haven of tranquility, while cloudy weather adds an air of mystery to the surroundings. The area is also home to rare alpine flora and various bogs, making it a haven for botany enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an active outdoor adventure, Pokljuka offers a unique and unspoiled experience.
Additional Attractions
Bohinj Gorge: Explore the scenic gorge carved by the Savica River, featuring dramatic rock formations and lush vegetation. It’s a great spot for photography and enjoying nature’s artistry.
Church of St. John the Baptist: Located near the lake, this charming church is renowned for its medieval frescoes and picturesque setting. It’s a lovely place to explore the local culture and history.
Muzej Tomaža Godca: Situated in Bohinjska Bistrica, this museum offers insights into the traditional life and culture of the Bohinj region, showcasing local crafts and historical artifacts.
Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in nature, enjoy breathtaking views, or explore local culture, Lake Bohinj and its surrounding areas provide a wealth of experiences for every type of traveler.
Info: Ukanc 6, tel. +386 (0)4 5729 712, [email protected], www.vogel.si.
BOHINJ BY THE NUMBERS:
Population (municipality): 5,277 / Number of villages: 24 / Size: 333.7 km2 / Municipal holiday: 26 august / Postcode: 4264 / Mayor: Franc Kramar / Known for: Bohinj Cheese
Festivals in Bohinj:
ALPINE FLOWER FESTIVAL: The breathtaking beauty of Bohinj’s alpine scenery is well-known, with images of rocky peaks, rural farms, abundant wildlife and of course the majestic lake itself gracing the covers of various books, brochures and family photo albums. However, the region also boasts an incredible botanical richness, which has fascinated visitors long before the railway brought a spike in tourist arrivals more than a century ago. In fact, as far back as the mid-18th century foreigners were penning odes to Bohinj’s diverse floral beauty, such as the scientist, traveller and explorer Balthazar Hacquet, who was so in love with the region that he not only wrote a three-volume tome about the flora here, but also yearned to return and spend the rest of his life as a shepherd.
In celebration of Bohinj’s unique floral environment, there is a two-week long International Flower Festival at the end of May and beginning of June each year, with a veritable bouquet of events and activities taking place across the entire region, including exhibitions, guided excursions, workshops, lectures, concerts, open-air markets and much more. Info: www.bohinj.si.
CHEESE & WINE FESTIVAL: Bohinj is famed for both its cheese and the alpine cows that make it all possible, so it’s only natural that the main town of Bohinjska Bistrica would play host to an annual cheese and wine festival. Actually the latter is a bit strange, since virtually no wine is produced in the Gorenjska region, but they are an undeniably fine combination and some of Slovenia’s best wine producers are found just over the mountains to the south. The one-day event is held in Danica Hall and in addition to tasting countless varieties of local cheese and other dairy products, visitors can watch cooking demonstrations, participate in children’s workshops and enjoy a full programme of entertainment with live music, folklore performances, games and much more. Info: +386 4 574 60 10, [email protected], kravjibal.bohinj-info.com.
COW BALL (KRAVJI BAL): The summer season in Slovenia’s alpine region officially ends in mid-September with one of the country’s most unique, if lesser known, festivals: the annual Kravji Bal, or traditional Cow Ball. Held in Bohinj since 1954, the event celebrates the return of local shepherds and their cattle to the valley after a summer of grazing high up in the pastures of the Julian Alps. The festivities kick off on Friday evening with tours of Bohinj’s local dairies and regional museum, followed by a night of folklore performances, village skits and traditional music in the village of Stara Fužine in Triglav National Park. Of course plenty of cheese will be on hand for tasting. On Sunday the main event takes place in the village of Ukanc when the shepherds and cows make their triumphant return, much to the delight of the thousands of onlookers. The all-day party begins in the morning with folk music, brass bands, an accordion orchestra, folklore performances and all manner of other costumed revellers competing for the eyes and ears of the crowd.
Info: tel. +386 (0)4 574 60 10, [email protected], kravjibal.bohinj-info.com.
FROM BOHINJ
Dining and Traditional Cuisine
When visiting Lake Bohinj, you’ll find a range of dining options that showcase Slovenia’s rich culinary traditions. Local restaurants offer an array of traditional Slovenian dishes, often prepared with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. For a taste of authentic Slovenian fare, try Gostilna Ribič, which is renowned for its delicious fish dishes, particularly the trout caught fresh from the lake. Another popular spot is Penzion Bregar, which serves hearty Slovenian specialties such as jota (a savory sauerkraut and bean stew) and potica (a traditional nut roll). Both eateries have received high praise for their warm hospitality and picturesque settings, with stunning views of the lake or surrounding mountains. For those looking to experience the region’s local flavors in a more casual setting, the Vogel Restaurant at the ski center offers a selection of local and international dishes, complemented by panoramic views. Additionally, the nearby town of Bohinjska Bistrica has a variety of options, including Gostilna Bistrica, known for its excellent štruklji (dumplings) and other local delicacies. Each dining experience is an opportunity to savor the essence of Slovenian cuisine while enjoying the beautiful natural surroundings.
TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRE
As well as offering helpful advice to visitors the Bohinj Tourism Information Centre in Ribčev Laz also offers a wide range of local and Slovene souvenirs and gifts – perhaps a wooden heart inlayed with Mother of Pearl or a chunk of delicious Bohinj cheese. Info: Ribčev Laz 48, tel. +386 (0)4574 60 10, fax +386 (0)4572 33 30, [email protected], www.bohinj-info.com.
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