Lake Bohinj is the largest permanent lake in Slovenia, in the Triglav National Park about 90 km north-west of Ljubljana. It is quieter and wilder than Lake Bled, with a path along the shore and the stone church of St John the Baptist at Ribčev Laz beside the old stone bridge. The Vogel cable car climbs from the lake to a ridge at around 1,500 m, with views over the lake and Mount Triglav. Savica Waterfall, a roughly 78 m cascade, is reached by a short walk with steps from a car park above the lake. Buses from Ljubljana take 2 to 2h15m, and the drive is about 1h30m via the A2 and Lesce. Swimming is popular in summer, when the water warms to around 20-22°C/68-72°F, and kayak and stand-up paddleboard hire is available. Hikers can continue to the Mostnica Gorge. Trout and Bohinj cheese are local specialities. The area is busiest in July and August; spring and autumn are calmer. In winter some services stop and Vogel becomes a ski area.
| Distance | About 90 km north-west of Ljubljana |
|---|---|
| Travel time | About 1h30m by car |
| Getting there | Bus: intercity services from Ljubljana bus station (Avtobusna postaja Ljubljana), Trg OF 4, timetable at ap-ljubljana.si to Bohinjsko jezero, about 2h-2h15m (often via Bled), roughly EUR 9-12 (~$10-13) each way |
| Cost | Bus about EUR 9-12 (~$10-13); Vogel cable car return roughly EUR 25-30; Savica Waterfall entry a few euros |
| Difficulty | moderate |
| Address | Ribčev Laz 48, 4265 Bohinjsko jezero, Slovenia |
How to get there
- Car: A2 to Lesce then the Bohinj road, about 1h30m
- Train: SŽ to Lesce-Bled, then a local bus to Bohinj, about 2h15m in total
Location
Ribčev Laz 48, 4265 Bohinjsko jezero, Slovenia
46.2889, 13.8883 View on map
Highlights
- Walk the shore path from Ribčev Laz
- Ride the Vogel cable car for Triglav views
- Visit Savica Waterfall
- Swim or paddle in summer
- Try trout and local cheese at lakeside restaurants
Tips for visiting
- Check cable car hours and maintenance weeks on the Vogel website.
- Bring a layer; temperatures on Vogel are much cooler.
- Consider an overnight stay if hiking in Triglav National Park.
- Start early to catch buses back to Ljubljana.
When to visit
June-September for swimming and hiking; October for autumn colour.
Accessibility
The lakeside path is mostly flat; the Savica Waterfall and Vogel upper area involve steps and uneven trails.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Lake Bohinj from Ljubljana?
About 90 km, around 1h30m by car or 2 to 2h15m by bus.
Is Bohinj better than Bled?
Bohinj is quieter and more alpine, while Bled has the castle and island. Many visitors see both in two days.
Can visitors swim in Lake Bohinj?
Yes, in summer, although the water is cool.