Straža

Straža is the small wooded hill that rises directly above the town of Bled, on the southern shore of the lake, and it is one of the best-loved leisure areas of the resort. It stands about 645 metres high, roughly 170 metres above the water, and a short walk from the centre of town is enough to start the climb. The hill gives views over Lake Bled with its island and castle, and across to the wall of the Julian Alps. Unlike the high mountains that surround the lake, Straža is gentle and accessible, and it is used throughout the year for walking, sport and family outings.

Summer visitors know it mostly for the toboggan run, a long track of steel rails on which a small cart races down the slope through the trees, with the speed controlled by a brake lever. It is popular with families and thrill seekers, and the ride gives views over the lake on the way. The hill also has marked walking paths and mountain bike trails, and the Rikli Trail, named after the Swiss naturopath Arnold Rikli, who developed Bled as a health resort in the nineteenth century and promoted fresh air, sunlight and walking as therapy. The trail carries on his tradition in a simple form and offers a gentle fitness route through woods and meadows that suits a morning walk or a jog.

At the top of the hill, there are clearings with benches and viewpoints, and from some of them the whole lake lies below. The views are at their best in the morning and the evening, and many people come to enjoy the view of the island church and castle in soft light. Straža also forms part of a trio of classic viewpoints above the lake, along with Ojstrica and Mala Osojnica, and it is easy to combine two of them in a half-day walk.

In winter the hill becomes a small ski area. There are short slopes with a lift, an area for children and beginners, a ski school and equipment rental, and some evenings the runs are lit for night skiing. The modest size of the slopes makes it a friendly place to learn, and the views while skiing are a bonus. Snow conditions vary from year to year, so check before going.

The hill suits families, walkers, cyclists and anyone who wants a view of Bled without a long climb. Wear sturdy shoes, bring water and look up current details of the toboggan run and ski lifts, since operating times depend on the season and weather.