On the special day, we travelled with the wedding entourage – plus Priest, organist and opera singer - to the Church of the Assumption, on a canopied, flower-decked rowing boat (pletna). The atmosphere was extremely peaceful and majestic on our journey across the lake and the bride looked so elegant sitting at the bow with the groom.
We disembarked at the bottom of a 99-step staircase that led directly to a terrace with the welcoming church door just beyond. It is tradition for the groom to carry his bride up this flight of steps to show his strength, whilst the bride must also remain perfectly silent in order to bring future happiness to their marriage. In mid 80 degree heat and wearing full wedding regalia this was some tall order, even for our strapping groom! Inside the beautifully adorned church, hanging from a small tower above the nave is the 15th century Wishing Bell. It is believed that all those who ring the bell to honour the Blessed Virgin will have their wishes granted.
We spent the first day, of our short holiday, leisurely walking around Bled Lake mesmerised by the beautiful scenery that presented itself as a never-ending photograph opportunity. With wooded hills protecting the pathway that circumvents the lake, and alpine peaks in the distance, we were also easily coaxed to scale the steep path to Bled Castle which is dramatically located on a sheer cliff overlooking the lake’s eastern end. A winding, very hilly climb, 270 steps and very out of breath, we arrived at the fairytale castle. Sitting at a table on one of three terraces overlooking the lake below, and soaking up the majestic views of the Karavanke mountain range, we devoured the local, traditional Bled cream cake, known as Kremna rezina, along with the refreshingly chilled local ginger and lime juice drink.
Whilst staying in Bled, we also visited nearby Vintgar Gorge - a long ravine discovered by chance in February 1891 - and took the 90 minute bus ride to the Capital city of Lubljana. Plenty to do and see!
If you are in need of a sprinkle of magic, or just need a few days of relaxation with magnificent scenery, I say, “Head to Bled!”