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Lake · Ribčev Laz, Gorenjska
Lake Bohinj
The largest permanent natural lake in Slovenia, of glacial origin, with largely undeveloped shores, inside Triglav National Park. Cold, clear water for swimming, paddling and walking around.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Lake Bohinj
Lake Bohinj (Bohinjsko jezero) occupies the bottom of a valley shaped by glaciers, at 526 meters above sea level. It is about 4.2 km long, up to 1 km wide and around 45 meters at its maximum depth. It is the largest permanent natural lake in Slovenia and lies entirely within Triglav National Park.
The shores are almost undeveloped. Ribčev Laz, at the eastern tip, has the stone bridge over the Jezernica, which flows out of the lake and forms the Sava Bohinjka, and the statue of Zlatorog, the chamois with golden horns from the Julian Alps legends. Ukanc, at the western tip, is the starting point for the Savica waterfall and the Vogel cable car.
A trail circles the lake, about 12 km: the north shore is a narrow path at the foot of the slopes, and the south shore follows the road. Motorboats do not operate on the lake, but there is rental of kayaks, SUPs and rowboats in season, and a tour boat runs between the two tips.
The water is colder than Bled’s because it comes from mountain springs, and it is commonly used for bathing in July and August. In winter, parts of the lake can freeze.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Half a day for a full walk around; an afternoon for swimming and a boat trip.
Best time
Early morning, when mist often rises from the water and the mountains reflect on the lake. For swimming, July and August. In autumn, the slopes’ forests change color.
How to get there
From Ribčev Laz, the shore is a few steps from the bus stop. From Bohinjska Bistrica, about 6 km by road or via the cycle path along the Sava Bohinjka.
Tip
Walk the north shore and return by boat or bus along the south shore. Wear sturdy shoes: the north path has stones and roots.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Lake Bohinj
Can you swim in Lake Bohinj?
Yes. The water is cold because it comes from mountain springs, and it is usually used for bathing in July and August.
How long is the walk around Lake Bohinj?
About 12 km, three to four hours on foot. The north shore is a narrow trail; the south follows the road.
Bohinj or Bled: what’s the difference?
Bled has the island, the castle, and more activity. Bohinj is larger, with no buildings on the shore and more mountain trails. They are about 28 km apart.
Can you go boating on Lake Bohinj?
Motorboats are not allowed. In season there are rentals for kayaks, SUPs, and rowboats, and a sightseeing boat runs between the two ends.