A walk around the lake

Bled is renown for its lake, the monastery on a small island in the middle of the lake and the castle perched high on the cliff tops over looking the lake. We decided we'd walk around the lake, a total distance of 6 kms and take in the other notable attractions as we did so. First stop the castle. All the 

Literature talked of a gruelling 20 - 30min climb up to the castle from the lake edge, or the easier option of driving up to the castle car park and then undertaking an arduous climb from the castle car park to the gates. You guessed, it we opted for the soft option. We need to conserve our energies for the many walks ahead in the numerous national parks and the stroll around the lake. The blurb in the guide book stated that the castle had been renovated in 2007 and this was so. From the outside and from the view across from the lake, the castle looks nondescript and in need of repair. However  the renovations on the inside provide a court for the requires lattes and coffee,  huge walls to admire the views of the lake and surrounding areas, and various small niches occupying rooms on the outlet walls. There is the standard gift shop, a gallery, a small museum, a wine cellar ( seller) and even a printing press making certificates etc for people. The views were stunning looking out to the Julian Alps. Each village or hamlet separated  from the next by a couple of miles, and the green meadows were have come to love.

Next stop, to hire a row boat and row the 500 m to the monastery on the island. Ian rowed out and I had to row back. Needless to say I managed, but I'm definitely out of practice. The monastery was  a small church perched on a tuft of land well cared for and a well thought out attraction. The huge wide sweeping steeps from the top,  to the waters edge made one feel like a very rich Mediterranean island owner sweeping down to welcome guests. 

The lake side walk was pleasant and we stopped in various bays to watch the locals frolicking in the water. We passed Villa Bled which was one of Tito's summer houses, now an established hotel but accommodating the historians and the nosey. The foyer and parts from the days gone by as well as Tito's desk available for the public to enjoy. I didn't,  I read the guide books. 

We have loved Bled. Our B & B lovely and well priced. At every turn you see houses offering sobes, or apartments for rent with a range of prices. While this is summer and there are numbers of people here, the place is well spread out which alleviates that crowded feeling. The place, unlike many other tourist resort towns is not heaving with bodies and endless queues for meals or attractions etc. This  experience was indeed pleasant. The ski slopes are very close so one speculates is it busier in winter? However as you drive towards the ski slopes  and the Julian Alps, there are yet again village after village all advertising rooms and accommodation. I can't imagine the area ever being booked out.