Walking in Lake Bohinj

Walking Trails:
400km

Terrain:
Lakeside walks, gentle valleys, plateaus, forests and rugged mountains

Lake Bohinj at a glance

  • Slovenian
  • Euro (EUR)
  • London Gatwick (LGW), London Heathrow (LHR), Birmingham Int. (BHX), Manchester Int. (MAN), Newcastle (NCL), Glasgow Int. (GLA)

Travel included to Lake Bohinj

Depart on: any day to Ljubljana or on Saturdays to Salzburg 

Arrive into: Ljubljana or Salzburg airport

Transfer time: 1 hour - 4 hours 

Included in your walking holiday to Lake Bohinj

  • Inghams Guided Walks from 26 May - 12 Sep 25 and 25 May - 10 Sep 26 (subject to availability)
  • Julian Alps Bohinj guest card with discounted travel and free admissions 
  • On holiday support and tailored advice from our Destination Experts based in Lake Bohinj
  • Access to Inghams Digital Resort Guide with things to do, walks and useful information on holiday
  • Flights from the UK, transfers and accommodation  

Walking in Lake Bohinj

Walks and hikes

Walking Trails:
400km
Terrain:
Lakeside walks, gentle valleys, plateaus, forests and rugged mountains

The mountains might be dramatic, but much of walking around Lake Bohinj is easy-going. Footpaths ramble between forests and wildflower meadows, waterfalls and caves, and hamlets decorated with half-timbered houses, stone bridges and churches. Mostnica Gorge is a hiking highlight, awash with rapids and waterfalls, as well as the myth-wreathed Devil’s Bridge. There are plenty of challenges too - look up to the surrounding limestone peaks of the Julian Alps. Height-loving hikers can clamber up the rocky paths to Mount Vogel – or there’s always the cable car that takes you to the restaurant and Alpine trails above.

In Slovenia, walking routes are marked either red or yellow - yellow are the lower trails and red are the mountain trails. In Bohinj, there's around 300 kilometres of red-marked trails and 100 kilometres of yellow-marked trails with a mixture of routes available for all abilities.

Staying in Lake Bohinj puts you right at the footstep of Triglav National Park - Slovenia’s wild, mountainous heart and a walker’s dream. From your lakeside base, you can lace up your boots and stride straight into alpine adventures, whether that’s a gentle wander through meadows buzzing with bees or a full-on leg-burner up towards Triglav itself (don’t worry, the views make up for the effort). The park’s trails serve up everything from forested paths and roaring waterfalls to high huts with strudel that tastes like a reward. It’s the kind of place where cows wear bells, rivers are shockingly turquoise, and every turn makes you reach for your camera - again.

Enjoy easy trails along the river's edge, wander the lake shore in between paddles, or head to Ukanc west of the lake, where you'll find the Zlatorog fairy trail. Find characters from local fairy tales, enjoy time in nature, and find fun activities along the way. Or head up Mount Vogel for some family-friendly walks up high - there's a play park and picnic spots too.

We’ve included two full-day walks per week (one in Bohinj and one in nearby Bled), just for Inghams guests. Join a small group and be led by a professional walking guide on some of their favourite trails. It’s a great way to get to know the area. For summer 25, they're available from 26 May - 12 Sep. They will run every Monday and Thursday and you can add them onto your holiday at the time of booking.

To take part in some of the walks, you'll need to travel to Bled. Travel is possible by public bus or taxi - both are payable locally and not included in the walk.

Spaces are limited, so early booking is recommended. Walks depend on weather, guide availability, and group size, and routes may change. Details are provided on arrival, and some may include a small local transport fee. Walks are not suitable for under 12s (under 18s must be with an adult). Please ensure the walk is right for you, our guides have the final say. See our booking conditions for full details. 

 

Our guided walks around Lake Bohinj

Kupljenik Bled

Explore the surrounding hills and villages of Bled, including Selo, Bohinjska Bela and Kupljeni,k which has many original architectural sites and the beautiful church of St. Stephen which dates back to the start of the 16th Century. You'll also enjoy stunning views over Bled and the surrounding hills along the way. From Bohinjska Bela, you can either return to Bled by bus or complete the full loop on foot.

  • Grade: Easy - Moderate
  • Distance: 8.2 - 14km
  • Walking time: approx. 4 hours
  • Ascent/descent: 200m / 405m
  • Terrain: Mainly gravel road, footpath or forest/meadow trail (can be quite uneven in places)
  • Useful information: You may need to arrange travel to the start point, which is payable locally
  • This walk will run every Monday between 26 May - 12 Sep 25
Lake Bohinj Mostnica Gorge

This walk follows the crystal clear Mostnica Gorge (gorge entry is free with your Bohinj Guest Card so please ensure you have it with you) as it weaves through the forested valley, with stunning natural rock features. In the upper part of Mostnica, the valley widens into the idyllic Voje valley, with meadows and the Voje waterfall. Depending on the group, it's possible to do a shorter route along the gorge path, or extend it further into the Voje valley to visit the waterfall.

  • Grade: Easy - Moderate
  • Distance: 10 - 19km
  • Walking time: Approx. 2.5 - 6 hours
  • Ascent/descent: 450m
  • Terrain: Mainly gravel road, footpath or forest trail (can be quite uneven in places)
  • Useful information: You may need to arrange travel to the start point, which is payable locally
  • This walk will run every Thursday between 26 May - 12 Sep 25.

Image: (Copyright: Mojca Odar)

Our favourite self-guided walks around Lake Bohinj

Lake Bohinj Viewpoint And Bench

Encircling Slovenia’s largest natural lake, this gentle trail weaves through forests and along the shimmering lakeshore, offering ever-changing views of Bohinj’s crystal-clear waters. The mostly flat route is ideal for a relaxing stroll, with chances to stop for a swim. Walk anticlockwise for a peaceful start through the woods, pausing at the far end for lunch or a refreshment. If you prefer a shorter walk, return by bus or take the electric boat across the lake.

  • Grade: Easy
  • Distance: 11.4km
  • Walking Time: 3 hours
  • Terrain: Easy forest path, tarmac

Image: (Copyright Roman Babaki)

Lake Bohinj Voje Valley

This scenic trail leads through the dramatic Mostnica Gorge and into the tranquil Voje Valley, where crystal-clear pools and sculpted rock formations create a mesmerising landscape. Keep an eye out for the famous elephant-shaped rock along the way. Two traditional mountain huts serve hearty local dishes, making great spots for a break. Entrance to the gorge is free with a Bohinj guest card.

  • Grade: Moderate
  • Distance: 11.8km
  • Walking Time: 4 hours
  • Terrain: Rocky forest path, gravel track
Lake Bohinj alpine flowers

This rewarding hike climbs steeply from Srednja Vas to the sun-drenched pastures of Zajamniki, where traditional shepherds' huts line the ridge like a mountain village. As you ascend, sweeping views of the Bohinj Valley unfold, with wildflower-filled meadows and grazing cattle adding to the charm. The effort is well worth it for the breathtaking panoramas from the top. Take the local bus to the start point, with additional summer services available in July and August.

  • Grade: Challenging
  • Distance: 13.7km
  • Walking Time: 6 hours
  • Terrain: Steep/rocky forest path, gravel track, tarmac

Image:  (Copyright: Mitja Sodja)

Our accommodations in Lake Bohinj

Discover Lake Bohinj

  • Take the Vogel cable-car into the dramatic peaks for great views above Lake Bohinj
  • See the impressive rock formations in the Mostnica Gorge
  • Hire a paddleboard to explore the lake or relax on a leisurely boat cruise

Name a lake in Slovenia, and most will point to the famously photogenic Lake Bled – but there’s another, wilder and equally beautiful, lake just west and it is the perfect spot for a summer holiday. Lake Bohinj basks in the untamed nature of Triglav National Park, where footpaths lead between stone villages, rugged mountains, rushing rivers and forested lakeshores. Amongst these atmospheric, lesser-trodden trails, it’s easy to believe that this is the realm of the mythical gold-horned chamois (and the less mythical eagle and ibex).

Fancy heading out onto the water? Lake Bohinj, the largest natural lake in Slovenia, is a stunning place to do just that. In summer, the emerald-green waters can reach up to 24°C, making it ideal for swimming, snorkelling, or simply cooling off. Paddleboards, kayaks, and canoes are all available for hire, while wooden boats with panoramic windows offer a more relaxed way to take in the surrounding forests and mountains. The lake is home to at least 16 species of fish, so snorkelling is a great way to explore beneath the surface. Prefer to stay dry? Try cycling, canyoning, or paragliding in the nearby area, or just enjoy a scenic boat ride. And of course, no visit is complete without sampling local delicacies like Bohinjski sir cheese, wines from Goriška Brda, or the locally-brewed Jezernik summer ale in Ljubljana – best enjoyed with a view of the lake.

Grab a bike and set off on a riverside ride. There's no better way to explore the city within a brief period than on a leisurely bike ride, fun for the whole family too. The Plečnik cycle route is the perfect way to explore Ljubljana’s Trnovo district, city centre, Žale cemetery and Tivoli Park – all within a few hours.

A family holiday to Lake Bohinj offers a tranquil escape in Slovenia’s breath-taking Julian Alps with plenty of outdoor activities thrown in. The crystal-clear waters of the lake are perfect for swimming, kayaking, or paddleboarding, while the surrounding forests and mountains invite scenic hikes for all ages.

 Families can visit the beautiful Savica Waterfall, ride the Vogel cable car for panoramic views (there's a play park at the top), or explore the nearby villages for a taste of local culture. With its peaceful atmosphere and outdoor activities, Lake Bohinj is a fantastic destination for creating lasting memories together. 

Ride through pretty villages or discover the exciting mountain bike park on Mount Vogel. For younger children, take an easy ride from Bohinjska Bistrica directly to the lake on the six-kilometre path - a quick way to explore the local landscape with fantastic family photo opportunities at every corner.

Check out our 'things to do' section for more details on family-friendly activities.

Bohinj has a great network of public transport and lifts that make getting around the area really easy. There are nine organised transport lines that operate around Bohinj between June and September.

Lifts

The Vogel cable car takes you from Ukanc up to 1,534 metres above sea level, perfect for high-mountain treks, with both short and long routes to choose from.

From the top of here you can take the Orlove Glave quad chair lift and the Zadnji Vogel Circular Cabin cable car to higher points to unlock even more walking trails.

The Julian Alps Bohinj Guest Card qualifies you for 20% discount on a return ticket for the cable car to Mount Vogel.

The summer operation of the new Zadnji Vogel Cable Car is subject to change.

Trains

The Bohinj railway line goes from Bohinjska Bistrica, the main village centre. You can use this service to reach Jesenice and Nova Gorica – taking you in both Northern and Southern directions of the lake itself.

Bikes can be taken onboard this service too, so a great alternative for cycling beyond the resort itself.

Buses

The Pokljuka bus transports you from Bohinj to the high karst plateau of Pokljuka, the largest forested area in the Triglav National Park. This is an excellent starting point to explore walking routes of all types, as well as themed trails like the Goreljek Peat-Bog Nature trail. This bus runs during high-season only.

Use your included Julian Alps Bohinj Guest Card to receive 50% discount on bus tickets to the capital city, Ljubljana. This is one of the most sustainable service options for reaching the city, with daily departures into the Ljubljana’s main bus station.

To get to Lake Bled, the bus journey takes around 40 minutes (you also get 50% off with the guest card).

Timetables, free shuttles, and organised transport lines can be found online via the Bohinj Tourist Office website or from your Destination Expert upon arrival. 

Boats

The two electric boats on Lake Bohinj, called Zlatorog and Triglavska Roža, are perfect for transporting you between the Western and Easten shores.

The ports of Ukanc and Ribčev Laz mean reaching each end of the lake is simple. Take a boat journey one way and walk back the other. Or, complete a round trip with hiking trails and opportunities in between. This service is a great alternative to the bus for getting to the Vogel cable car in Ukanc from your accommodation.

From the end of June until the middle of September, there are around 14 departure times from each port throughout the day, starting from approx. 9:30am, with the last one being at 6:10pm. Outside of high season, departures are less frequent.

Use your included Julian Alps Bohinj Guest Card for one free boat ride during your stay, maximising your stay with this efficient service.

Bohinj Guest Card: The Julian Alps Card Bohinj

All Inghams guests will receive the Julian Alps Card during their stay in Bohinj.

Guests staying 3 or 4 nights will receive a 3-day card, guests staying 7 nights will receive 5-day card and guests staying 10/11/14 nights will receive a 10-day card.

The card has great saving benefits and will make travelling and sightseeing around the area much easier.

  • Free admission to Savica WaterfallMostnica Gorge and Church of St John
  • One free boat trip with the panoramic boat on Lake Bohinj, then 50% discount for your second trip onwards
  • Free admission to all museums in Bohinj
  • Free hop-on, hop-off bus trip to Pokljuka (high season)
  • Free local bus rides around Bohinj with Arriva buses
  • Free one-way or return train tickets from Bohinjska Bistrica or Most na Soci to all stations on route to Nova Gorica and Ljubljana
  • 50% discount on bus tickets from Bohinj to Ljubljana
  • 20% discount on a return ticket for the cable car to Vogel
  • 5 – 50% discounts on activities and sightseeing in Bohinj and Bled and more

Please note inclusions are subject to change.

Travel to Lake Bohinj

Travel by air

Flights to Ljubljana and Salzburg depart between 24 May - 04 Oct 25 & 23 May - 03 Oct 26.

Fly into Salzburg (Saturdays only) from:

  • London Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, Newcastle, and Glasgow

Fly into Ljubljana (daily) from:

  • London Gatwick and London Heathrow

Transfer time:

  • From Ljubljana: approx. 1 hour by coach.
  • From Salzburg: approx. 3 hours 30 minutes - 4 hours by coach (includes a stop).

Please be aware that transfer times may vary depending on weather conditions and volume of traffic, especially during peak season.

Things to do in Lake Bohinj

Kranjska Gora Mountains

Experience a full day of breathtaking mountain scenery and untouched natural beauty on this tour of the Julian Alps. We will head from Kranjska Gora into the Trenta Valley while driving alongside the emerald-green Soča River. There will be several short stops along the way to enjoy the views. After a lunch break in Bovec, we'll continue our journey over the Predil Pass (1,156 m) back to Kranjska Gora, passing by the world-famous ski jump center in Planica. Transportation and a guide are included; however, lunch is not.

Departs: Monday (full day)

We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.

Image: (Copyright: Arhiv Turizem Kranjska Gora Bogomir Košir)

Postojna Caves

Explore one of Slovenia's most popular attractions: the world-famous Postojna Caves. Take a ride on the 'cave train' to experience one of the largest cave systems in the world. Afterward, visit the enchanting and mysterious Predjama Castle, which boasts a rich history. The tour includes transportation, a guide, and entrance fees.

Departs: Tuesday (3/4 day)

We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.

Ljubljana City Centre In Summer

A guided insight into one of the youngest capital cities of Europe with plenty of time for sightseeing and shopping. Ljubljana is a vibrant and attractive city, renowned for being one of the greenest in Europe, boasting numerous green spaces and alfresco dining options. Feel the energy of the streets, immerse yourself in the stories and legends, and enjoy the pretty city sights. Transport and guide are included (funicular in Ljubljana is not included).

Departs: Wednesday (3/4 day)

We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.

Image: (Copyright: Matej Kastelic)

Take a scenic local train ride through the mountains and valleys to the charming village by the Soča River. Enjoy a leisurely boat cruise on an emerald blue lake before heading to the Goriška Brda wine region. A delicious lunch will be served at a family-run restaurant with stunning views of the vineyards. Visit one of the country’s largest wine cellars in Dobrovo, explore the fascinating cellars, and indulge in a wine-tasting experience. This full-day trip includes lunch, wine tasting, a guide, and all transport.

Departs: Friday (full day)

We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.

Lake Bohinj Vogel Chair Lift in summer Slovenia

For the best view in Bohinj, you need to take the cable car up to Mount Vogel at 1,530m and enjoy a bird's eye view of the lake. The top of the lift is a great starting point for long hikes if you are a keen walker, but it's worth the trip even for a short wander. There are plenty of wildflowers and animals up in this Alpine landscape, and the Vogel information trail provides information on the area. In high season, the four-seater Orlove Glave chair lift takes you even higher into the mountains with ease, and for the adventurous there's mountain bike trails or you can take to the skies in a paraglide.

Lake Bohinj Savica Waterfall Slovenia

In the Mostnica Gorge, crystal clear water flows through the intricate rock formations that have been creatively carved by nature over thousands of years. It's surrounded by nature, and all you can hear is the rushing of water and the sound of the trees.  Hidden in the hills at the far western end of Lake Bohinj, the Savica Waterfall is one of Slovenia's most visited natural attractions, tumbling 78 metres from top to bottom. It's glorified in Slovenian folklore as the birthplace of love stories and captivates visitors from all over the world.

Lake Bohinj Slovenian food

Life in the mountains around Bohinj hasn't always been easy, and its cultural heritage is a testament to that. Dotted throughout the mountains, traditional shepherd's huts can still be found on the mountain pastures, once an important part of pastoral livestock farming, with milk and dairy products a key part of everyday diets. You can see a traditional Bohinj farmhouse with a black kitchen at the Open House. Or get a glimpse into the life of Bohinj's shepherds at the Alpine Dairy Museum.

There's a rich mountaineering history in Bohinj, and Mt. Triglav (Slovenia's highest peak) was summited long before the likes of Grossglockner, Mont Blanc or the Matterhorn, and even before the creation of any mountaineering associations. 

The Pokljuka Plateau, 20 kilometres long and almost 20 kilometres wide, is a huge area with a unique karst landscape, shaped by the Pokljuka glacier and home to many plants and animals. The tradition of Alpine farming continues on the Poklljuka Plateau in summer with shepherds spending their summers here living in traditional wooden sheds. You can buy home-made milk and cheese, and experience a bit of life as it used to be.

Lake Bohinj alpine flowers Slovenia

In late spring and early summer, Bohinj offers the most diverse and colourful landscape, so it's the perfect place for a world-famous festival. The festival includes talks, walks and expert workshops all dedicated to the wildflowers which draw visitors to Slovenia from all over the world. There are even demonstrations on the use of flowers in cooking and medicine. Flowers are also used in local crafts and you can enjoy the local craft and farmer's market. On the second weekend of the festival, there are some activities planned for children and families.

Please note dates might be subject to change and events are weather permitting

Some events have a participation fee up to €15

The festival usually takes place at the end of May and beginning of June.

Lake Bohinj kayaking

Enjoy some time on the water combining both leisure and adventure. Stand-up paddleboarding is the perfect daytime activity for splashing around with the children. The calm waters and secluded beaches are great for having your own personal spot - Simply relax and swim, or for a more adventurous choice, rent a canoe or a stand-up paddleboard for some self-guided fun.

There's the Aquapark adjacent to the Bohinj Eco Hotel, in Bohinjska Bistrica too - great for fun-filled days with indoor and outdoor pools, water slides, and more.

Image: (Copyright: Tomaz Kos)

Lake Bohinj cruise

With two panoramic boats on the lake, you can either do a return trip or a one-way journey to explore a whole new setting. Included in the Julian Alps Bohinj Guest Card, you can take a trip a day, ideal for sitting back and enjoying the peaceful setting while the children spot the fish in the water.

Image:  (Copyright: Jernej Srebrnic)

Ljubljana Markets

Whether it be a stroll through the Old Town streets, a dawdle through the central parks and squares, or a trickier route up to the Ljubljana castle hill – the city centre has you covered. But don't forget, Ljubljana is more than just a city, you can also venture into the nearby Mali Plac nature reserve for great hiking routes and a change of scenery.

Crossing the city's bridges is a great way to experience life in Ljubljana. A must is the Dragon Bridge which bears the city's coat of arms, made famous by the legend of Jason and the Argonauts. Triple Bridge is the most unusual, whilst Cobbler's Bridge is one of the oldest and Butcher's Bridge takes you into the market.

Ljubljana is also an incredible place to shop - with outdoor fairs, fresh fruit and flower markets, cultural shops and even shopping centres on the outskirts, you certainly won't run out of options. You will also come across lots of Slovenian food shops, great for taking some home-made treats back at the end of the day - perfect souvenirs to take home after a day of exploring this dynamic and welcoming capital.

Image: (Copyright: Nea Culpa Mankica Kranjec)

Lake Bohinj calm lake view

Many visitors stay in Bohinjska Bistrica – a rural village seven kilometres from Bohinj, with a museum, restaurants, a church and a crystal-clear river running through it. The train station is a motorail that carries vehicles and passengers to Lake Bled or to the modernist town of Nova Gorica, right against the Italian border – but not before plunging through the mountains via the longest railway tunnel in Slovenia first. Above Bohinjska Bistrica, the Pokljuka Plateau is a popular starting point for walks, with dense forests and pretty alpine meadows, plus the idyllic Planina Zajamniki Mountain Pasture with its traditional wooden houses and views for miles.

Image: (Copyright: Dejan Stanič)

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