Things To Do
in Zgornje Gorje
Zgornje Gorje is a serene hillside village above Lake Bled in Slovenia's Upper Carniola region. It is framed by the Julian Alps and pine forests, offering sweeping mountain views and easy access to outdoor trails. The area blends rustic alpine charm with proximity to iconic landmarks like Lake Bled, Vintgar Gorge, and nearby Pokljuka plateau.
Visitors come for outdoor adventures, traditional homestays, and a welcoming, slow-paced Slovene countryside atmosphere.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Zgornje Gorje and check into a charming local guesthouse that offers stunning views of the surrounding nature. Spend some time strolling around the small village, soaking in the tranquility and beautiful scenery. Visit the nearby Lake Bled to warm up your senses with its breathtaking beauty.
Enjoy lunch at a local café, where you can indulge in traditional Slovenian cuisine. Afterward, rent a bicycle and explore the scenic bike routes that wind through the lush forests and fields. Stop by the iconic Bled Castle to learn about its fascinating history and enjoy panoramic views of Lake Bled.
Return to Zgornje Gorje for a leisurely dinner at a local restaurant serving authentic dishes. As night falls, take a peaceful walk under the stars, surrounded by the serene sounds of nature. Wind down your evening with a glass of Slovenian wine in the cozy ambiance of your guesthouse.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before setting out on a nature hike in Triglav National Park. Follow the trails leading to stunning viewpoints and hidden waterfalls, breathing in the fresh mountain air. Spot local wildlife and immerse yourself in the rich biodiversity of the region.
Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic spots along your hike, surrounded by the breathtaking landscape. After lunch, continue exploring the park, perhaps tackling a challenging trail that rewards with views of the majestic Julian Alps. Capture photos to remember the stunning vistas and your adventures in nature.
Head back to your accommodation to refresh and relax after a day of hiking. Treat yourself to a rustic dinner, sampling local delicacies in a cozy tavern. As you relax, recount the day's adventures with your traveling companions while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the countryside.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍝Three-course mid-range meal for two | $40-60 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🛏️Hotel per night (mid-range) | $80-150 |
| 🚆Public transport ticket (regional) | $2-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning alpine scenery and proximity to Lake Bled
- Compact, walkable village with easy access to nature
- Can be crowded in peak summer; higher prices around popular sights
- Limited nightlife and dining options in the immediate village
- "Pozdravljeni" - Hello
- "Hvala" - Thank you
- "Kje je WC?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Koliko stane?" - How much does it cost?
- "Prosimo, plačajte z kreditno kartico." - Please pay with a credit card.
- "Ali imate meni v angleščini?" - Do you have the menu in English?
Places to Visit in Zgornje Gorje
Visit one of these nice places.
A classic panorama of the lake against the Julian Alps, best at sunrise or sunset.
Historic terrace with towers and stonework overlooking the lake and island.
Wooden walkway along the Radovna River through a narrow, turquoise canyon.
A tall double waterfall where mist creates rainbows on sunny days.
Food in Zgornje Gorje
Zgornje Gorje Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
The iconic Lake Bled cream cake, a delicate, airy pastry layered with custard and whipped cream.
Must-Try!
A hearty stew of beans, sauerkraut, potatoes, and smoked pork, ideal for cooler days.
Traditional Slovenian sausage often served with sauerkraut and mustard.
Freshly prepared trout from local waters, typically grilled or lightly fried with herbs.
Cornmeal mush served with mushroom ragout or with Krakovian style toppings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal stalls offering fresh produce, honey, cheese, mushrooms, and regional snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite handshake is common; greet others with
Wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat; keep voices moderate in public spaces; ask permission before taking photos of people.
Safety
Tipping in Zgornje Gorje
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not mandatory; 5–10% for good service is common in restaurants and cafes.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is fine; the euro is the official currency; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with fresh greenery; trails may be muddy; good for flower photography and smaller crowds.
Warm days (roughly 20–25°C); expect busier sights around Lake Bled; stay hydrated and wear sun protection.
Cooler air and golden forests; ideal for long hikes with fewer visitors.
Cold and snowy in the mountains; shorter days but magical scenery and winter sports nearby.
Zgornje Gorje at Night
Hiking in Zgornje Gorje
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Boardwalked route through a canyon with turquoise pools and waterfalls.
Open meadows and pine forests with wildlife viewing and panoramic alpine views.
Waterfall and surrounding short hikes; a gateway to Triglav National Park.
A network of day hikes with varying difficulty near Mojstrana and Begunje.
Airports
How to reach Zgornje Gorje by plane.
Main international gateway to the Ljubljana region; about 40-60 minutes by car to Zgornje Gorje.
Alternative gateway in Austria; roughly 2 hours by road to Zgornje Gorje.
Smaller airport serving regional flights; about 1.5-2 hours by car to Zgornje Gorje.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily international visitors seeking lake views, hiking, and nature experiences.
Seasonal residents around summer homes and longer-term locals in traditional villages.
Visitors with children attracted to lake activities and nature trails.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in the Alps during winter; nearby resorts offer slopes for all levels.
Extensive trails through Pokljuka, Vintgar Gorge, and the surrounding countryside.
Water activities on Lake Bled and nearby rivers in summer.
Road cycling along lakeside roads and forest trails.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zgornje Gorje.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Slovenian dishes can be adapted; look for mushroom dishes, cheese plates, and veggie soups, and ask for veggie versions of stews or gajdos (potato-based dishes).