Slovenia / Bled

SLOVENIA

Slovenia is the only country in Europe that combines the Alps, the Mediterranean, the Pannonian Plain and the Karst. The changing landscape is constantly surprising time and time again. You can have one eye on the sea, then look in the other direction and be surrounded by high mountains. Heading up into the forest, you can see the green plains below you. From the meadows your view stretches into river gorges. This proximity of opposites and contrast is a hallmark of the country.

In Slovenia you can still walk through the forest or watch the grapes ripen on the oldest vine in the world. You can hear the bears and eat forest fruits that you have picked yourself on a brief walk out of town. Here you can uncover the secrets of the land and what lies beneath it. Here you are part of nature.

FACTS ABOUT SLOVENIA:

• There are over 10,000 caves in Slovenia. The best known, Postojna runs for around 20km.
• They love their wine and more than 200 square kilometres are covered by vineyards.
• The capital is Ljubljana and the symbol of the city is the Dragon.
• The famous veduta of Piran, this medieval pearl, give the memorable seaside view.
• Slovenia has one of the largest brown bear populations in Europe. It is believed there are between 500 and 700 bears.
• Maribor, Slovenia’s second-largest city is home to the oldest vine in the world. Although it is over four hundred years old, its Zametna Crnina grapes still produce 25 litres of wine every year.
• Over 60 world records in ski jumping and ski flying have been set in Planica.
• Numerous thermal-water springs reaching the surface at 32-73 degrees celsius are one of the greatest Slovenian treasures.
• Fascinating Lake Bled with its island, where you can ring the bell at the church and make a wish.

BLED

Not far from the capital city of Ljubljana, approximately 54km, is the stunning Lake Bled, the most tranquil spot I have ever come across. It’s not just a lake, it’s a remarkably deep blue lake, with the medieval Bled Castle perched over a limestone cliff near the shore and the small Bled Island sitting ever so majestically in the middle of the glistening water, with pastel pink color of its Pilgrimage Church of the Assumption of Mary elegantly glowing against the backdrop of strikingly green forest-covered mountains.

We took the Pletna boat across to the island, which was a great experience. The young man that rowed us was very friendly and entertained us with stories about past generations and how the Pletna boat was handed down by his family.

The island itself is enchanting with picturesque views in all directions. We walked up the 99 stairs and headed towards the church. If couples marry at the church on Bled Island, it is tradition for the groom to carry the bride up the 99 steps leading to the island, in order to ensure a long and happy marriage. We were fortunate to meet a bridal party from Australia which was very exciting for us all being fellow Aussies.

As we entered the Church of the Virgil Mary’s Assumption we were mesmerised by its beauty and wealth. A fairytale and dream all in one. Of special interest is the “wishing bell” from 1534 in the upper roof beam above the church nave. It is said that if one can get the bell to ring three times on one pull it give honor to the Virgin Mary and they get their wish come true. We all had a go of ringing the wishing bell but unfortunately did not succeed with the three rings. However I can say we are blessed with a beautiful family and were given the chance to experience this rare beauty.

We finished our day with some great food and a glass of fine wine. If you have the opportunity to visit Slovenia this is an absolute must. I am privileged to say I was born in beautiful Ljubljana and hope to visit again soon.

THINGS TO SEE & DO:

• Pletna boat ride to Bled Island. Bled's answer to Venice’s gondolas.
• Make the trek up the 130 meter summit to Bled Summit to Bled castle and enjoy the breathtaking views over the lake and nearby Alps.
• Hire a rowboat and wonder around the island at your own leisure.
• Take a horse and carriage ride, perfect for a magical wedding.
• Visit Vintgar Gorge.
• Tobogganing on the Straza in summer and ski in winter.
• Cool down on a warm summer’s day with a swim in Lake Bled
• Ice skating in winter over Lake Bled.
• Eat famous “Kremsnita”, a cream cake that dares you to stop at one.