Guess Which Is THE Most Romantic European Getaway?
Bled Is For Lovers. Where? Read On.
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A Romantic Surprise
So, you’re looking for a quick but romantic European getaway. Okay, we know…. “Bled” doesn’t sound romantic. (My heart Bleds for you? That’s just not right). And no, Bled is not in Transylvania, nor is it in any way involved with Count Dracula. But when it comes to finding the perfect romantic European getaway, this is IT.
We loved the stroll around the lake. The beauty of the environment overcame the cheese factor.
Bled is a gorgeous, fairy-tale-beautiful place in Slovenia, a 4-hour drive from Vienna, or just 3 hours from Venice. Situated on an emerald-green lake, the town is famous for its medieval castle perched high atop a rocky cliff. Some of the highest peaks of the Julian Alps and the Karavanke Mountains provide Lake Bled’s stunning backdrop. And, if that’s not enough to make you and your Valentine swoon, there’s a tiny island in the lake – the site of an ancient picturesque church.
A Great Place to Stroll Hand in Hand
Bled is one of Slovenia’s most popular resorts, drawing hikers, spa enthusiasts (thermal springs are close by) and honeymooners. Lovers find many romantic vistas along the gentle path that encircles the lake. (A walk around the entire circumference takes about an hour.) There is no shortage of lovely lakeside restaurants, where you can eat a scrumptious meal, or enjoy a cocktail as the sun sets. Of course, you must also sample the Kremsnita, Bled’s iconic confection. Bursting with cream, vanilla and a hint of rum, the Kremsnita is said to have been created by the Hungarian chef at Bled’s Park Hotel in the 1950’s.
Plus, A Little History
The imposing Bled Castle actually has fun stores and restaurants inside
The history of Bled Castle reaches back to 1004, when German Emperor Henry II gave his Bled estate to Bishop Albuin of Brixen. The castle features a distinctive double structure, with a fortified center intended as the residence of feudal lords. Visitors today can choose to climb up the very steep approach, go by taxi or – the #1 Choice for unabashed seekers of the Romantic European Getaway – a horse-drawn carriage. Entry to the castle is about 11 euros. Check the website for hours http://www.blejski-grad.si/en/about-bled-castle
What’s a Romantic European Getaway Without a Gondola?
Bled Lake Gondolas waft you to the cute church on the island
We hear you asking: “What is a Pletna?” It’s Bled’s answer to a gondola, and it’s how you’ll get to the church in the middle of the lake – the Church of the Assumption of Mary. Pletnas leave from various spots around the lake. (Note that boats only leave when full, so you might be in for a wait.) The boat ride costs about 14 euros. You may also rent a rowboat, and take yourself out to the island. The Church is a favorite for weddings. If you’re lucky, you might see a groom carrying his bride up the 99 steps to the church. That’s the custom! For entry fee and visiting hours, check http://www.blejskiotok.si/
There are many great day trips from Bled, including one to the nearby Vintgar Gorge. The highlight there is a wooden walkway that crisscrosses the Radovna River, over rapids, waterfalls, and pools before reaching the dramatic Sum Waterfall. But honestly, Bled is THE quick romantic European getaway with the one you love while writing the next chapter in your storybook romance.
Want More? Here’s the Book You Need
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