A Winter Escape to Lake Bohinj
We have now had our first drop of snow in Lake Bohinj, and the dusting of white makes the area even more beautiful as we leave the golden autumnal days behind and embrace the colder weather.
Whether you are craving adventure, or seeking tranquillity, Lake Bohinj has it all. Let us show you why this alpine wonderland should be top of your travel list this winter.
Step Into a Winter Wonderland
With the arrival of snow, Lake Bohinj becomes a magical winter wonderland. Imagine picture-perfect views, peaceful surroundings, and that unmistakable scent of fresh, crisp air. Just take a look at this video to see how serene and beautiful Lake Bohinj is under a blanket of snow.
There’s no shortage of fun to be had in the snow here. Do you want to build a snowman, ice-skate, whizz down the slopes of a sledge, get energetic on the slopes or try some invigorating cross-country skiing? There are even opportunities for night-time sledging and skiing under the starlit sky!
Just above Lake Bohinj lies Vogel Ski Resort, a hidden gem recognised by Lonely Planet as one of the most affordable ski resorts in Europe offering “unforgettable views of the Julian Alps.” If you are after a low-key resort, where you can give skiing a try, then Vogel is the place to go. And it won’t break the bank either!
Set in the Triglav National Park, Vogel Ski Resort offers 22km of gentle blue and red runs, alongside an exciting snow park. The resort is ideal for families and beginners looking for a relaxed and friendly ski experience. You won’t feel overwhelmed here and can focus on learning to ski. That’s if you can keep your eyes off the amazing views, of course!
Vogel has ski rental shops so you can easily kit yourself out with the right equipment, or book some lessons to get you started. Cafes and restaurants serve hearty, Slovene dishes to sustain your adventure on the slopes.
Whilst the lakeside may not always be blanketed in snow, there are an array of alternative activities for you to enjoy at Lake Bohinj.
Invigorating Winter Walks
One of our favourite activities is to wrap up warmly and head around Lake Bohinj for a refreshing walk. The walk around the lake is 12km and takes about 3-4 hours. Bright blue skies, with the snow-capped Julian Alps reflected in the water, make this walk particularly stunning during the winter time. You will hardly see a soul – just you, the lake and the majestic mountains all around. Bliss.
When you are half-way around the lake, why not pause at Restavracija Ukanc for a hearty lunch or a warming hot chocolate? Just be sure to check opening hours before you head out though, as the restaurant is usually only open at weekends in winter.
Even on misty, foggy days, Lake Bohinj has an ethereal quality, making it incredibly atmospheric and beautiful.
Another option is to try snowshoeing – imagine giant trays on your feet spreading your weight as you traverse the snow. Experienced guide, Grega at Hike & Bike, offers snowshoeing hikes around Lake Bohinj and has an abundance of local knowledge which will keep you entertained. Or maybe you’d like to try the unique Full Moon Walk at Vogel Ski Centre for an unforgettable evening.
Other popular local walks include the Mostnica Gorge and Savica Waterfall.
Taking the Plunge: Cold Water Swimming
Feeling brave? Winter swimming in Lake Bohinj is an exhilarating experience, and it’s becoming increasingly popular.
These two photos were taken on consecutive days in February!
Those icy dips come with plenty of health benefits too. Increase your metabolism and circulation, reduce inflammation, and give your body a boost of happy hormones. Our kids are certainly in a good mood after taking the plunge, especially if I am waiting by the lake shore with a towel and a steaming drink!
Do take adequate precautions though, and be aware of your limits before immersing yourself into Lake Bohinj in winter.
Winter Hiking
For the adventurous, mountain hiking in winter offers fabulous vistas if you are experienced and well prepared. Lake Bohinj serves as an excellent base for exploring the Julian Alps in Slovenia.
A favourite hike of ours is the mountain Pršivec, on the north shore of Lake Bohinj. At 1,761m, you get amazing views over the lake and the Julian Alps.
This is a hike that is perfect when the winter is mild, as otherwise there is too much snow. Read about our winter ascent of Pršivec here.
Moreover, with the sun rising later, winter is the perfect time of the year to get up for that spectacular sunrise over the mountains. The summit of Viševnik is a terrific place to watch the sun slowly rising up, creating a radiant glow over the Julian Alps. Compared to other peaks over 2,000m, Viševnik is a shorter hike, and is therefore a more accessible location to reach in the dark for that amazing sunrise.
Read how we got on climbing Viševnik for a sunrise adventure here.
After a day of hiking, nothing beats the warmth of an open fire and the comfort of some local, traditional food. Old favourites such as pizza and pasta are easily available too.
Fewer restaurants are open at this time of year, so it is always best to check opening hours before heading out.
Rest, Relax & Recharge
A winter holiday isn’t complete without an opportunity to rest those tired muscles after a day out exploring. The Aquapark in Bohinjska Bistrica, is just 8km from Lake Bohinj, offers a wealth of therapies to help you relax.
For adults, pamper yourself with a massage (including chocolate and fruit!) or a facial, zone out in the saunas or try the salt room. Children love the swimming pool, with whirlpools, water jets, the wild river, a rock-climbing wall over the water and slides. Buy a day ticket and hang out for some rest and relaxation… remember to bring a good book too!
The weather in winter can be unpredictable, so the Aquapark is a great wet-weather option, keeping children active and entertained. Alternatively, take a day trip to Bled, where the fairytale island and castle are even more enchanting with a dusting of snow.
Plan Your Winter Escape to Lake Bohinj
It is easy to see why Lake Bohinj offers a magical winter escape.
A visit here offers a tranquil escape from the hustle & bustle of life, a place to slow down and reconnect with family and friends. So come and experience the restorative power of being outside and in nature with a winter escape to Lake Bohinj.
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