No trip to Slovenia would be complete without a visit to the Vintgar Gorge. This natural wonder features turquoise waters that flow through narrow rock walls, creating a breathtaking spectacle. Visitors walk wearing mandatory hard hats due to falling rocks (seriously?) along wooden walkways that meander through the gorge. Every few feet there’s another stunning view.
What I wasn’t told about this tour is there’s a two-mile steep uphill walk from the gorge back to the entrance. Although I started the trail walk back with a group, I eventually found myself alone and wondering if I was lost. All of a sudden I came upon a shrine right in the middle of the forest trail. I immediately prayed for this trail to end! Soon enough I was back at the entrance and on my way.
Another highlight of my trip was exploring the mountain town of Kranjska Gora about 45 minutes from Bled.
Beside huge mountain peaks there is Lake Jasna. This lake is a stunning glacial lake surrounded by lush green meadows and snow-capped peaks. The emerald waters of the lake are perfect for a swim on a hot summer day.
Lunch at the Jasna Resort Cafe was one of the best meals of my entire trip; fresh barbecued trout served on a bed of vegetable risotto with grilled vegetables. It was my first but not last time eating this delicious fish!
I walked through the charming town of Kranjska Gora, which is filled with cozy cafes, traditional restaurants, and boutiques with local products.
Once again, I’m not a big dessert person, but I just had to try a piece of Bled Cream Cake. It’s the town’s signature item and available at every restaurant and café. It’s a rich creamy vanilla custard with a layer of whipped cream on top and covered with a flaky phyllo dough dusted with powdered sugar on top.
The good news was, one loop around the three-mile lake totally burns off the cake’s calories.
Even better news is during my three days in Bled, I averaged about seven miles a day. Bring on more creme cake!
I agree with those who say Slovenia is a healing, refreshing experience for the mind and body. Just breathing the fresh, cool mountain air and walking through the lush green forests, I felt renewed.
“I feel Slovenia”… and I want to keep feeling it, but Portugal is calling, so I must go!
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