Family Adventure in Triglav National Park

Views from Above: Conquering Mala Osojnica

Today was all about seeing Lake Bled from a new perspective, quite literally. We embarked on a hike that promised stunning views and a taste of local culture. It was a day filled with natural beauty, delicious food, and a bit of shopping, making it a perfect Slovenian experience.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Restavracija Pri Lovcu.


Discover authentic Slovenian cuisine at Restavracija Pri Lovcu in Bohinj – where every meal is a journey into local flavors.

The morning air was crisp, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth, a refreshing change from the city. Fuelled up, we set our sights on Mala Osojnica, a viewpoint known for its panoramic vistas of Lake Bled.


Experience the breathtaking views of Lake Bled from Mala Osojnica, a serene escape in Slovenia's stunning natural landscapes.

The trailhead was easy enough to find, and soon we were ascending the path that wound its way up the hill. The trail was muddy in spots, a testament to the recent rains, but nothing our hiking boots couldn't handle. Greta, Marko, and I took our time, enjoying the lush greenery surrounding us. Marko, ever the curious one, peppered us with questions about the different plants and insects we encountered. I tried my best to answer, drawing on my limited knowledge of botany and a healthy dose of guesswork.

As we climbed higher, glimpses of the lake began to appear through the trees, each one more captivating than the last. The anticipation grew with every step, and finally, we reached the summit. And what a reward it was! The view was simply breathtaking. Lake Bled stretched out before us, its turquoise waters shimmering in the sunlight. Bled Island, with its iconic church, looked like a tiny jewel in the middle of the lake, and Bled Castle stood proudly on its clifftop perch. In the distance, the Julian Alps formed a majestic backdrop, their snow-capped peaks piercing the sky.

I must admit, I felt a surge of pride. Not just in the view, but in my family. Greta, despite not being a huge fan of hiking, was beaming. Marko, usually restless, was captivated by the scene, pointing out the different landmarks with glee. It was one of those moments where everything just felt right.

The view from Mala Osojnica is a reminder that sometimes, the most rewarding experiences require a little bit of effort.

After soaking in the view and snapping countless photos, we made our way back down. The descent was much quicker, and soon we were back at the base, ready for lunch. We decided to try Restaurant Viharnik, which came highly recommended.


Experience authentic Slovenian cuisine with breathtaking views at Restaurant Viharnik near Bohinj Lake.

The restaurant had a lovely terrace overlooking the lake, and we were lucky enough to snag a table in the sun. I opted for a traditional Slovenian dish, while Greta went for a salad, and Marko, of course, chose the pasta. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was relaxed and convivial. It was the perfect way to refuel after our hike.

With our bellies full, we decided to do a bit of shopping. I had heard about the I Feel Slovenia Shop and was keen to check it out.


Explore authentic Slovenian culture through unique souvenirs at I Feel Slovenia Shop in Bled, a charming destination for every traveler.

We found the shop without much trouble, and it was a treasure trove of Slovenian souvenirs and crafts. Greta was immediately drawn to the handmade lace, while Marko was fascinated by the wooden toys. I was on the lookout for something that would remind me of our trip, and I eventually settled on a beautiful handcrafted wooden bowl. It was simple yet elegant, and I knew it would look perfect on our dining table back in Heidelberg.

Before dinner, we strolled around the lake, enjoying the fresh air and the lively atmosphere. There were people swimming, paddleboarding, and simply relaxing by the shore. It was a vibrant scene, and we were happy to be a part of it. Marko insisted on getting an ice cream, so we stopped at a nearby shop and indulged in a sweet treat.

For dinner, we ventured to Public & Vegan Kitchen Bled.


Experience vibrant vegan cuisine at Public & Vegan Kitchen Bled—where taste meets sustainability in Slovenia's beautiful lakeside town.

Although I am not strictly vegan, I always like to try new things, and I had heard good things about this place. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, and the menu was full of creative and delicious-sounding dishes. We ordered a selection of appetizers and entrees, and everything was bursting with flavor. Even Marko, who can be a picky eater, devoured his meal. It was a testament to the chef's skills and the quality of the ingredients.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves reflecting on our experiences. The hike to Mala Osojnica was undoubtedly the highlight, offering stunning views and a sense of accomplishment. The local cuisine was another highlight, with each meal providing a taste of Slovenian culture. And the shopping was a fun way to discover the country's craftsmanship and creativity.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Sava Valley and Triglav Viewpoint, hoping to capture even more of Slovenia's natural beauty. We're also planning a visit to Slap Iglica, a waterfall that I've heard is absolutely stunning. And in the evening, we might just treat ourselves to a cocktail at A propos Cocktail Bar. After all, a little bit of relaxation is essential on any vacation.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel grateful for this opportunity to explore Slovenia with my family. It's moments like these that make life truly special, and I'm already looking forward to what tomorrow will bring.

The fresh air and the day's adventures have taken their toll, and it's time for bed. Goodnight from Lake Bled, and stay tuned for more tales from our Slovenian adventure!

Looking back on the day, I realize that sometimes the best travel experiences are the ones that combine natural beauty with local culture. The hike to Mala Osojnica was a perfect example of this, offering stunning views and a chance to connect with the Slovenian landscape. The food, the shopping, and the overall atmosphere of Lake Bled all added to the experience, making it a day to remember. And as we prepare for our next adventure, I can't help but wonder what other hidden gems Slovenia has in store for us.