Lake Inspiration in all Seasons 2013 Meeting and Incentive Planners’ Guide

1 Table of contents

Dear Business Partners, Contact us About ...... 2 We would be delighted to provide you with further information on About Bled...... 4 In the last hundred years, Bled has established itself as a renowned business and and the venues. Please diplomatic centre and has managed to further strengthen this position in the last contact us at: Meetings at Lake Bled...... 6 decade. Bled Tourist Board & Convention Meeting facilities...... 9 There are many arguments that will assist you in deciding to come to Bled, Bureau Grand Hotel Toplice...... 9 including the unique natural environment of Lake Bled, the special venues Cesta svobode 11 Golf Hotel...... 10 complemented by the natural and cultural heritage and the friendly local people 4260 Bled that have passed on their knowledge of how to be a good host from generation to Park Hotel...... 11 generation. T: +386 4 578 05 00 Kompas Hotel...... 12 Bled lies on the edge of the Triglav National Park, while most of its hotels are in E: [email protected] Best Western Premier Lovec Hotel...... 13 the immediate vicinity of Lake Bled, the warmest Alpine lake that ranks high on www.bled.si Triglav Hotel...... 14 global lists of most idyllic places. This is a place that encourages concentration Vila Bled...... 15 and reflection, relaxation and dynamism. Therefore it should be no surprise that Astoria Hotel...... 16 we have been hosting the PEN International Writers' Meetings for four decades, while in 2011 Bled was the setting of the Rowing World Championships for the Jelovica Hotel...... 16 Lake Bled 2013 Meeting and Incentive fourth time in its history. We are aware of our co-responsibility for the further Planners' Guide Ribno Hotel...... 17 development of tourism and there is no doubt that our resolve for sustainable Publisher: Bled Tourist Board & Convention Krim Hotel...... 17 tourism is the unanimous decision of the local community. The meetings industry Bureau Savica Hotel...... 18 certainly recognised the importance of sustainability long ago and we will thus Texts and editing: Bled Tourist Board & enable you to hold ‘green’ events in Bled all year round. Convention Bureau Jadran Hotel...... 18 Proof reading: Alasdair Green Trst Hotel...... 18 We are always open to discussing new ideas and solutions with meeting planners. Design: Barbara Bogataj Kokalj A professional team of specialised agents, ranging from PCOs to DMCs, will Photography: Archives of Bled Tourist Bled Congress Centre...... 19 Board & Convention Bureau, Slovenia assist you in carrying out your event flawlessly and stress-free. Tourist Board, Shutterstock and individual companies presented in this brochure; Rožle Special Venues...... 20 Bregar, Milan Janša, Tomo Jeseničnik, Špela ...... 20 Repnik, Bor Rojnik. We will be delighted to meet you in Bled. Welcome. Published: January 2013 Bled Island...... 22

This publication is free of charge. Straža Hill...... 23 Bled Golf Course...... 24 Eva Štravs Podlogar Janez Fajfar Vila Prešeren...... 26 Director Mayor of Bled Theatre-style Radovljica Mansion...... 26 Bled Tourist Board Velika & Mala Zaka...... 27 Classroom Bled Sports Hall...... 27 U-shape Triglavska roža Bled...... 28 Avsenik Inn...... 28 Banquet Service providers...... 29 Cocktail Incentive & teambuilding programmes...... 30 Surface area (sq m) Excursions from Bled...... 32

1 Maribor Kranjska gora BLED Slovenia Bohinj Kranj Discover the diversity of Europe in miniature Ljubljana Postojna Lipica 50 km Legend has it that when he created the world, God had a little bit of KLAGENFURT everything special left over. Not sure what to do with it, he took his bag TRIESTE Portorož and emptied it all over a small plot of land in central Europe that much VENICE ZAGREB later became known as Slovenia. This pocket-sized country in the heart of Europe truly is amazingly diverse. Getting to A short drive will take visitors from the high peaks, gushing rivers, crystal- clear lakes and verdant valleys of Slovenia’s Alps to the laid-back villages Slovenia on the sunny Mediterranean coast. In between, the dazzling underworld, disappearing lakes and majestic Lipizzaner horses of the Karst await By air exploration, and winegrowing regions beckon guests to linger. In the Ljubljana Airport, Slovenia’s main inter­ very heart of the country lies its culture-loving capital Ljubljana, a city of national gateway, is served by daily flights beautiful architecture and a relaxed flair. The eastern part of Slovenia, in from numerous European cities. Most turn, is characterised by thermal springs, ancient castles and monasteries, are operated by the national carrier Adria historic towns and a rural lifestyle. Airways, a Star Alliance member. Other This mosaic of landscapes enables visitors to enjoy the great green airlines flying to Ljubljana include Air outdoors and urges you outside for action-packed adventures in the fresh France, Finnair, Turkish Airlines, and the air. Slovenia’s location at the crossroads of Europe has provided it with low-cost carriers EasyJet and Wizzair. a rich history and culture, which local residents are proud to reveal. To Another option of getting to Slovenia by top an unforgettable stay in Slovenia, there is excellent cuisine ranging air is to fly to one of the nearby airports from home-made local fare to contemporary gourmet dishes prepared by in neighbouring countries, such as the best Slovene chefs, while best of all are Slovenia’s open and friendly Klagenfurt in Austria, Trieste and Venice people, who will do their utmost to make you feel genuinely welcome. in Italy or Zagreb in Croatia.

Slovenia facts & figures Direct scheduled flights to Ljubljana Airport Area: 20,273 sq km Ljubljana has direct flight connections Population: 2 million with Amsterdam, Belgrade, Brussels, Capital city: Ljubljana Copenhagen, Frankfurt, Istanbul, London, Moscow, Munich, Paris, Language: The official language is Slovene, as well as Italian and Hungarian in the western and eastern part of Podgorica, Priština, Sarajevo, Skopje, Slovenia respectively. English, German and Italian Tirana, Vienna and Zurich. are widely spoken. Bordering countries: Italy, Austria, Hungary, Croatia Highest point: Triglav (2,864m) By car Coastline: 46.6km Slovenia’s motorway network is extensive, Currency: Euro crossing the country from northwest Religion: Roman Catholic (82%) to southeast and from southwest to Climate: Alpine, Continental, Mediterranean north­east. The motorways, for the use Average temperatures: January: 0ºC, July: 21ºC of which a vignette is obligatory, are in Time zone: Central European Time, GMT +1 good condition, and towns are clearly signposted. Political system: Multiparty parliamentary democracy GDP per capita: €17,286 (2010)

Important dates from Slovenia’s recent history By bus or train 1991: Slovenia officially declares its independence Busses and trains run to Slovenia dai­ly 2004: Slovenia joins the EU and NATO from numerous European cities. Conne­ 2007: Slovenia adopts the Euro ctions by sleeping car are also available.

2 About Slovenia 3 Bled

The eternal allure of Bled lies in its magical lake, a shimmering body of crystal-clear water embraced by a necklace of snow-capped Alpine peaks. Atop the lake reigns Slovenia’s only island, crowned by a 15th-century chapel safely guarding its wishing bell, while high above it broods a mighty medieval castle. Visitors to Bled are inspired by its mild climate, fresh air, plentiful sunshine, clean water and tranquil serenity and charmed by the time-honoured ‘pletna’ boats that slowly glide across the lake. Horse-drawn carriages add to the town’s traditional flair, while the delicious cream cakes have also passed into Bled folklore, having been baked here since 1953, when the original recipe was invented.

Kmetija Pri Biscu

Vintgar Bled and its surrounding area, much of which falls within the Triglav Gorje (15 km) National Park, ensure plentiful opportunities for spending an active day in the great outdoors, including golf on one of the most beautiful courses in Europe, white-water rafting, cycling and hiking. Recently, Bled’s ambitious Hostel Bled

Blejski grad and cosmopolitan chefs, who like to give new interpretations to the typical Bled castle

Triglav traditional dishes of the area, have managed to establish themselves Union among the very best in the country, thus adding to the pleasures of visiting Penzion Milena Ljubljana (48 km) Begunje (10 km) Radovljica (6 km) Avstrija Italija Slovenia’s Alpine pearl. (35 km) Savica

Vila Ajda Koritno Blejski otok Bled island Bled facts & figures

Pustolovski park Adventure park Population: 5,476 Jama pod (3 km) Babjim Bohinj (28 km) Kmetija Mulej zobom (6 km) Penzion Dolinar Krainer Kmetija Pr’ Povšin Penzion Lukanc Penzion Krek INFORMACIJE LEKARNA / PHARMACY PARKIRIŠČE INFORMACIJSKO SREDIŠČE TNP POHODNIŠTVO OTROŠKO IGRIŠČE RIBOLOV TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRE OBČINA BLED TEL.: +386 (0) 4 5741 122 TEL.: +386 (0) 4 5780 770,5766 085 CAR PARK INFO CENTER OF TRIGLAV NATIONAL PARK WALKING CHILDREN PLAYGROUND FISHING 501m ZDRAVSTVENI DOM / HEALTH CENTRE POLICIJA / POLICE STATION BANČNI AVTOMAT HOTEL POSTAJALIŠČE PLETEN KOLESARJENJE GOLF AERODROM LJUBLJANA Elevation: TEL.: +386 (0) 4 5754 000, 112 TEL.: +386 (0) 4 5741 185,113 CASH MASHINE HOTEL PLETNA BOAT STOP CYCLING GOLF LJUBLJANA AIRPORT TEL.: +386 (0) 4 2061 000 POŠTA / POST OFFICE AVTOBUSNO POSTAJALIŠČE NARAVNA ZNAMENITOST MLADINSKO PRENOČIŠČE IZPOSOJA ČOLNOV SMUČANJE TENIS TEL.: +386 (0) 4 5780 900 BUS STOP NATURAL PLACE OF INTEREST YOUTH HOSTEL RENT A BOAT SKIING TENNIS COURT TURIZEM BLED ŽELEZNIŠKA POSTAJA BENCINSKI SERVIS RAZGLEDNA TOČKA SEDEŽNICA POSTAJALIŠČE TURISTIČNI VLAK POLETNO SANKANJE ODBOJKA NA MIVKI BLED TOURIST BOARD Average temperatures: January: -1.2ºC, July: 18.7ºC RAILWAY STATION PETROL STATION VIEW POINT CHAIR LIFT TOURIST TRAIN STOP SUMMER TOBOGGANING BEACHVOLLEY Size of Lake Bled: 2,120m x 1,380m (surface area: 144 hectares) Maximum lake temperature: 26ºC Depth of the lake: Max. 30.6m Distance from Ljubljana: 55km Distance from Ljubljana Airport: 35km

4 About Bled 5 Accommodation facilities in Bled Meetings at Lake Bled Type of accommodation Number of rooms Five-star hotels 87 Inspiration in all seasons Four-star hotels 606 Three-star hotels 468 Bed and breakfasts and guesthouses 175 Apartments and private rooms 380 Hostels 29 Campsites 280

Bled Convention Bureau Bled Convention Bureau is a non-profit organisation, operating under the umbrella of the Bled Tourist Board. Its main tasks include the marketing and promotion of Bled as an inspiring and refreshing destination for medium-sized corporate, governmental and association meetings, larger international sports events and incentive travel. Furthermore, it acts as a source of objective information on meeting venues and service providers in Bled, supporting planners in the selection of the most suitable partners, as well as assisting them with expert advice and material. The Convention Bureau links the suppliers of Bled and promotes co-operation between its members, aiming at constant growth in quality and supporting green Bled is safe and easily accessible. Bled is attractive. and sustainable meeting products. The services of Bled Convention Bureau are free of charge. Slovenia ranks among the safest destinations in the Beautiful nature provides a fantastic backdrop that world. The country lies in the heart of Europe and enthuses and inspires participants. The lake, island and is easily accessible by air, road and rail. Ljubljana castle are a truly unforgettable sight, with countless 2020 vision International Airport is merely a 30-minute drive from other natural and cultural attractions to stun visitors Bled will become the most sought-after and inspiring sustainable Bled, while Klagenfurt Airport in Austria is another merely a short drive away. A meeting in Bled will Alpine meeting destination. nearby option. Bled is compact, with all its facilities remain in the memory of attendees forever. and sights being within walking distance. Mission of the destination Bled blends business with pleasure. Unforgettable events in a wonderful environment, supported by professional meeting experts. Bled has excellent infrastructure. Bled offers ample opportunities for enhancing a Bled’s conference infrastructure is being constantly meeting with pleasurable tasks. Be it an adventurous Mission of the Convention Bureau upgraded and modernised. The Bled Congress Centre, sporting activity, a cultural exploration or an oeno- The Bled Convention Bureau aims to become the leading convention the facility with the largest capacity, can accommodate gastronomic teambuilding programme, Bled is the bureau in the Alpine region in terms of its creativity, sustainability up to 500 delegates. The meeting offer is complemented right solution. Receptions and gala dinners can be held and results. by numerous first-rate hotels with conference facilities. in an array of special locations, while excursions from Accommodation options range from the simple to the Bled can take guests to Slovenia’s best-known sights, or Strategic goal sophisticated, all being good value for money. alternatively lead them to the charming hidden corners To rank among the top 100 meeting destinations in the world of the country. (according to ICCA). Bled has a rich tradition in hosting Our values Bled offers superb cuisine. meetings. Respect, peace, beauty, esteem, knowledge and co-operation. Bled has been actively present on the world conference Bled gives you the chance to taste its regional fare in map for over 25 years, playing host to medium-sized a traditional inn, or you can opt for the best gourmet cuisine created by the town’s new generation of corporate, association and governmental meetings of Bled Tourist Board & Convention Bureau between 100 and 400 delegates, as well as frequent contemporary chefs. Differing in their execution of dishes, they however all have in common a deep-rooted Cesta svobode 11 top-end sports events. Many meetings have found 4260 Bled their home in Bled, returning year after year. Bled’s respect for age-old recipes and fresh, local seasonal ingredients. multilingual meeting professionals possess invaluable T: +386 4 578 05 00 experience and professional knowledge. E: [email protected] www.bled.si

6 Meetings at Lake Bled 7 A glimpse into the past: A selection from the They have made Bled their colourful palette of events held in Bled home: Annual Events in Grand Hotel Toplice 2012: Bled SCAPR (Societies’ Council for the Collective Management of Performers’ Bled Strategic Forum (since 2006; The Grand Hotel Toplice, a member of the prominent Small Luxury Hotels of Rights) General Assembly 8th to be held in Bled in 2013) st the World group, boasts a prime location right on the shore of Lake Bled. The 1 Pan-Slavic Congress of Child Neurology Bled eConference (Bled Electronic 4th International Clostridium difficile Symposium five-star hotel has retained the elegant style of the 1930s and is one of Slovenia’s Grand Hotel Toplice Commerce Conference) (since most distinguished hotels, offering traditional comfort and the highest level of Cesta svobode 12 Cross-border Healthcare Conference th 1988; 26 to be held in Bled in services. 4260 Bled 2012 Youth Sport Conference 2013) 5th Congress of Nephrology The hotel’s conference centre features two larger divisible conference halls, as well PEN Conference (International T: +386 4 579 10 00 as two smaller meeting rooms, several indoor exhibition spaces and magnificent 2011: Writers’ Meeting) (held in Bled E: [email protected] th lakeside terraces ideal for coffee breaks. The largest, aptly-named Grand Hall World Rowing Championships (also held in Bled in 1966, 1979 and 1989) since 1977; 45 to be held in Bled www.sava-hotels-resorts.com DEMSEE 6th International Workshop on Deregulated Electricity Market in 2013) is a multi-purpose meeting and banqueting room which can accommodate a Issues in South-Eastern Europe BledCom International Public maximum of 270 delegates theatre-style and has direct access to a terrace. The th Number of hotel rooms: 87 7th Slovenian International Conference on Graph Theory Relations Symposium (20 to be hotel’s function rooms reflect its historical and traditional character and offer a 5th CEED (Centre for Entrepreneurship and Executive Development) held in Bled in 2013) creative ambience, which is further enhanced by natural daylight and wonderful Regional Conference Bled Philosophical Conferences views across the lake. 2011 IEEE-RAS International Conference on Humanoid Robots (since 1993) The Grand Hotel Toplice has 87 air-conditioned rooms and sumptuous lake-view 13th Conference on Artificial Intelligence in Medicine (AIME’11) Biathlon World Cup (Pokljuka – suites featuring period furniture. Hotel facilities also include an elegant indoor FIVB (International Volleyball Federation) Medical Commission Meeting Bled) pool with its own thermal spring, saunas, a massage and beauty parlour, private IARLJ (International Association of Refugee Law Judges) 9th World Bled Forum on Europe organised lido and boathouse. Conference by GFS Institute (GoForeSight) (14th to be held in Bled in 2013) Renowned for its fine international cuisine, the Grand Hotel Toplice delights 2010: Travel Zoom Conference on guests with the creations of its expert chefs, which may be served to larger th 5 General Conference on Advanced Mathematical Methods in Finance Strategic and Creative Marketing gatherings in the Grand and Panorama Halls, or alternatively in the intimate AMaMeF 2010 in Tourism (since 2011, 3rd to be and exclusive ambience of the lakeshore Julijana Gourmet Restaurant. Annual Seminar of AECM (European Association of Mutual Guarantee held in Bled in 2013) Societies) on ‘Managing the Recovery’ The Grand Hotel Toplice is the leading hotel of the Sava Hoteli Bled group, which Annual International Rowing includes five other properties, all in the very heart of Bled. Before 2010: Regattas European Conference on Machine Learning and Principles and Practice of Annual International Ice Hockey Knowledge Discovery in Databases (ECML PKDD) (2009) Tournaments ECVD-ESVD (European Society of Veterinary Dermatology) Annual Grand Hall I + II 270 160 60 300 350 326 sq m Congress (2009) Grand Hall I 200 120 60 140 – 160 250 200 sq m 24th Conference of the Danubian Countries within the framework of IHP Grand Hall II 70 40 40 / / 126 sq m (International Hydrological Program) of UNESCO (2008) 15th ITF Senior World Taekwon-Do Championship (2007) Panorama I+II+III 150 80 56 120 200 213 sq m Annual Bank Conference on Development Economics (ABCDE) (2007) Panorama I 50 30 20 / / 69 sq m st 71 World Congress of International PEN (2005) Panorama II 50 30 20 / / 69 sq m European Youth Olympic Festival (EYOF) (2003) Panorama III 50 30 20 / / 75 sq m Chess Olympiad (2002) Presidential 40 30 18 / / 112 sq m Lounge Bridge Room 20 16 10 / / 36 sq m Lake Salon / / / / 150 154 sq m

8 Meeting facilities 9 Golf Hotel Park Hotel

The Golf Hotel is a modern conference and spa hotel standing on a small hill The Park Hotel enjoys a central location on the shore of Lake Bled, close to in the centre of Bled. It is embraced by a green park of ancient trees and offers the Bled Congress Centre and amidst Bled’s lively goings-on, which makes it a Hotel Golf wonderful views towards the lake, the castle and the Julian Alps. popular choice for business and leisure travellers alike. Hotel Park Cankarjeva 4 Cesta svobode 15 With as many as eight function rooms and over 1,000 sq m of meeting space, The hotel boasts a conference centre with three halls, the largest of which seats 4260 Bled 4260 Bled the hotel is the largest hotel convention centre in Bled, priding itself on its long- up to 120 participants theatre-style and is divisible. There are two business established tradition of hosting the most diverse meetings. Its unique divisible offices, spacious exhibition areas and four additional function rooms located on T: +386 4 579 17 00 T: +386 4 579 18 00 Jupiter Hall can welcome up to 350 participants in a stimulating ambience, different hotel floors. Beautiful views of the lake unfold from all meeting spaces. E: [email protected] E: [email protected] supplemented by natural daylight and lake views. The hotel’s environmental www.sava-hotels-resorts.com With 217 rooms, the Park Hotel is the largest hotel in Bled. All guestrooms www.sava-hotels-resorts.com care efforts, such as consistent recycling, the reduction of energy and water feature balconies; those with lake views are also air-conditioned. For the consumption, the use of local suppliers and the development of eco-friendly Number of hotel rooms: 150 wellbeing of the guests, there is a large indoor swimming pool with thermal Number of hotel rooms: 217 goods are reflected in its ‘Green Meetings’ product. The hotel’s attentive and water, a Jacuzzi, saunas, a fitness studio and a Thai massage centre. The hotel is experienced staff are always on hand to ensure the smooth organisation of every not only a certified cyclist- and hiker-friendly hotel, but its orientation towards event. an active lifestyle is also reflected in the contents of its meeting product. A special feature of the Golf Hotel is the exceptional Živa Wellness Centre, which The Park Hotel is the home of the original Bled cream cake, which was invented aims to further the heritage of Arnold Rikli’s 19th century healing methods by its head pâtissier in 1953 and has become a true symbol of Bled. This delicious and enhance them with a modern approach. The centre comprises a thermal treat is available in the lakeside café, while food connoisseurs head for the swimming pool complex, sauna world and beauty and massage centre. excellent Promenada Gourmet Restaurant to treat themselves to the delicacies The four-star hotel has a total of 150 rooms with balconies, including spacious created by its famous chef Bine Volčič. corner suites, two of which are also suitable for smaller meetings. Banquets may be held in the Jupiter and Concordia Halls, while the Veranda à la carte restaurant caters for smaller working lunches or dinners.

Prešeren 120 60 28 80 70 139 sq m Prešeren I 60 30 30 40 40 69,5 sq m Prešeren II 60 30 30 40 40 69,5 sq m Jupiter A + B 350 250 70 260 420 335 sq m Cankar 110 72 52 60 130 131,5 sq m Jupiter A 175 125 40 130 210 175 sq m Kosovel 55 30 30 40 40 69,5 sq m Jupiter B 175 125 35 130 210 160 sq m 4 Boardrooms 45 24 26 / / 63 sq m Concordia 230 150 60 160 300 283 sq m Libertas 100 60 34 / 120 116 sq m Aurora / / 34 / / 91 sq m Flora 80 40 30 / 80 91 sq m Venera 80 40 30 / 80 91 sq m 2 Business Suites / / 10 / / 36 sq m

10 Meeting facilities 11 Kompas Hotel Best Western Premier

The setting of the Kompas Hotel on top of a small hill in the heart of Bled Lovec Hotel allows its guests to enjoy views across the lake, castle and Julian Alps, which Hotel Kompas are especially magical from its large lakeside terrace. The hotel was constructed The boutique Best Western Premier Lovec Hotel is a friendly establishment Best Western Premier Hotel Lovec Cankarjeva 2 in a typical alpine style and thus blends well into the surrounding area of high in the centre of Bled that proudly continues the tradition of a century-old Ljubljanska cesta 6 4260 Bled mountain peaks. guesthouse. The hotel’s architecture is such that it blends harmoniously with its 4260 Bled natural environment. Its close bond with the Alpine region is also reflected in T: +386 4 620 51 00 The Kompas Hotel prides itself on an extensive offer available to organisers the abundant use of natural materials and warm colours, which are present in T: +386 4 620 41 00 E: [email protected] of business meetings and events. This comprises five air-conditioned function the common areas, as well as all of its 61 air-conditioned rooms. E: [email protected] www.kompashotel.com rooms with natural daylight and state-of-the-art technical amenities, the www.lovechotel.com largest of which, the Jezerska Hall, can accommodate up to 200 delegates in its The hotel’s main function room, the Panorama Hall, is on the topmost floor and offers plentiful daylight and wonderful vistas across the lake and towards the Number of hotel rooms: 95 amphitheatre. In addition, there is plenty of space for the registration of meeting Number of hotel rooms: 61 participants, exhibitions and social gatherings. Emphasis is placed on personal Julian and Karavanke Alps. The divisible multipurpose hall has wooden flooring attention and professional support from all members of the hotel team. The and can accommodate up to 140 delegates for a conference or up to 70 guests productive working environment is complemented by a superb culinary offer for a gala dinner. The foyer is suitable for exhibitions and coffee breaks, while based on dishes made of locally grown ingredients. Social gatherings can be held there are also two smaller board rooms. The meeting product of the Lovec Hotel in the hotel restaurant, which is one of the largest event spaces in Bled with 250 is distinguished by the professional and friendly support of the hotel technician, seats, or in the café and on its panoramic terrace. who is on hand for the full duration of a meeting, the waiting staff and sales team. The 95-room Kompas Hotel is a sister property of the adjacent Best Western Premier Lovec Hotel and has an extensive offer aimed at guests wishing to spend Additional hotel amenities include a pool, Jacuzzi, saunas, massage parlour, Grill an active stay, including a large glazed swimming pool, Jacuzzi, saunas, fitness Restaurant with terrace and Lovec Pub. The interesting concept of the hotel’s centre, squash court and massage parlour focusing on excellent sports massages. culinary offer is based on traditional Slovenian food and dishes made exclusively from local ingredients from nearby farms.

Jezerska Hall 128 – 200 / / / 189 sq m (amphitheatre) Panorama 140 90 70 70 140 180 sq m Triglavska + 96 80 40 – 60 / / 140 sq m Panorama I 70 50 40 35 70 90 sq m Grajska Hall Panorama II 70 50 40 35 70 90 sq m Triglavska Hall 48 36 22 – 36 / / 70 sq m Meeting Room 20 16 16 / / 25 sq m Grajska Hall 48 36 22 – 36 / / 70 sq m Boardroom / / 8 / / 14 sq m Blejska Hall 48 36 18 – 36 / / 75 sq m Rikli Hall 48 36 18 – 36 / / 75 sq m Restaurant / / / 180 240 210 sq m Café / / / 50 80 120+20 sq m

12 Meeting facilities 13 Triglav Hotel Vila Bled

Opened in 2009, the boutique Triglav Hotel is the newest addition to the Bled The unique Vila Bled is in a majestic park right on the shore of Lake Bled, its hotel scene, yet it existed as early as 1906. A thorough refurbishment has made setting outside the centre of Bled ensuring privacy for the most noteworthy Hotel Triglav this early 20th century gem shine anew in all its glory, with items from the events. The villa was constructed in 1947 on the site of a former royal summer Vila Bled Kolodvorska 33 diverse periods in which the property has functioned as a hotel proudly displayed home and subsequently served for decades as one of President Tito’s residences Cesta svobode 26 4260 Bled in the hallways. The hotel is in the immediate vicinity of the old railway station, before being turned into a boutique 1950s-style hotel. 4260 Bled on a hill a kilometre and a half from the centre and overlooking the lake from an The hotel with 31 rooms, most of which are spacious suites, boasts the exceptional T: +386 4 575 26 10 interesting angle, different from that seen from other hotels. T: +386 4 260 16 61 Concert Hall, which features a fascinating mural depicting the Yugoslav struggle E: [email protected] E: [email protected] The Triglav Hotel is distinguished by its revival of long-forgotten stories, during WWII. The hall has direct access to a lake-side terrace and is a wonderful www.hoteltriglavbled.si especially from the world of traditional cuisine. Chef Uroš Štefelin refers back to venue for meetings of various kinds, as well as gala dinners prepared and served the times of his childhood for inspiration, and then applies modern techniques by the highly skilled staff of the Slovenian State Protocol Service, which manages Number of hotel rooms: 22 Number of hotel rooms: 31 to create his masterpieces, using only the finest, preferably locally grown the hotel. The adjacent Conference Hall provides additional meeting space, while ingredients. With a capacity of up to 100, the Triglav Hotel restaurant is thus a social gatherings can be held in the hotel restaurant and on its magnificent prime venue for gala dinners, while culinary teambuilding programmes during terrace. which guests get to know the chef’s secrets are also available. The Belvedere Pavilion is an exceptional building set on 30-metre pillars in The hotel’s meeting facilities are suitable for smaller functions of up to 40, while the hotel park. The edifice was designed by Jože Plečnik, one of the greatest the restaurant can also be converted into a meeting room with space for up to Slovenian architects, as the reception area of a new royal residence, the plans for 70 delegates. which never came to fruition. Later, it was used by Tito for relaxed tea parties. Nowadays, it makes an unsurpassable setting for a standing reception with the In addition to 22 lake-view rooms, a pool, Finnish sauna, fitness room and most beautiful view across Lake Bled and the island. massage parlour, the Triglav Hotel also features a relaxing fireplace room, a wine cellar where tastings can be organised and two garden pavilions, suitable for The hotel offer is rounded off by a wellness centre including a Jacuzzi, saunas standing receptions of up to 70 guests. and massage parlour, private lakeside lido and boathouse.

Meeting room 30 20 20 30 30 40 sq m Concert Hall 120 80 45 96 150 147 sq m Fireplace room 20 15 12 15 15 30 sq m Conference Hall 40 30 30 / / 75 sq m Restaurant 70 50 30 70 70 90 sq m Piano bar 40 30 20 40 40 70 sq m

14 Meeting facilities 15 Astoria Hotel Ribno Hotel

The Astoria Hotel is in the centre of Bled, close to the main bus station and the The Ribno Hotel is in an idyllic village just two kilometres from Bled. Its Bled Congress Centre. The property, managed by the Bled School of Catering, beautiful natural setting is a delight for all the senses, providing relaxation for Hotel Astoria is currently undergoing extensive renovations, which will see it upgraded to a body and soul. The surrounding pine forest and plentiful birdsong additionally Hotel Ribno Prešernova 44 contemporary ‘eco’ hotel with 73 rooms of the 3-star superior category. enhance the positive energy of the scenery and create a stimulating working Izletniška 44 4260 Bled environment, especially suitable for educational meetings and teambuildings. 4260 Bled The hotel will feature three air-conditioned meeting rooms with state-of-the art technical equipment. The joined halls I and II will be able to accommodate up to The meeting facilities of the Ribno Hotel consist of four function rooms with T: +386 4 579 44 00 T: +386 4 578 31 00 150 delegates in theatre-style. natural daylight. Groups counting more than 45 members can also use the E: [email protected] E: [email protected] restaurant as meeting space. www.hotelastoria-bled.com Further hotel amenities are to include a restaurant and aperitif bar with direct www.hotel-ribno.si access to a terrace, free wireless internet and an exciting new wellness centre The hotel has a total of 61 rooms and is distinguished by a beautiful terrace, Number of hotel rooms: 73 encompassing saunas, jacuzzis, a private spa, beauty studio, massage parlour embraced by a green lawn and tall trees. In nice weather, meals can be served Number of hotel rooms: 61 and fitness centre. The Astoria Hotel also manages the restaurant at Bled Castle. here, with relaxed picnics being a favourite. Additional hotel facilities include a wellness studio with saunas, a whirlpool and massage parlour.

Hall I + II 150 80 65 65 120 174 sq m Hall I 120 60 45 45 80 114 sq m Hall II 60 40 25 25 30 60 sq m Gozdni mož 45 40 30 / / 66 sq m Hall III 60 40 25 25 30 65 sq m Dobra vila 35 25 22 / / 59 sq m Trije škratje 35 25 22 / / 59 sq m Jurček 20 12 16 / / 38 sq m

Jelovica Hotel Krim Hotel

The Jelovica Hotel is in the Bled spa The Krim Hotel is in the heart of Bled, Hotel Jelovica park, close to the old part of town close to the Sports Hall and a spacious and merely a few steps from the Bled car and bus park. It has a rich, over Hotel Krim Cesta svobode 8 Ljubljanska 7 4260 Bled Congress Centre. The three-star hotel 50-year tradition of hospitality and features 110 modernly appoin­ted is popular with a wide range of guests 4260 Bled T: +386 4 579 60 00 rooms and a beauty and health club and especially sportspeople. with facilities that guests can enjoy T: +386 4 579 70 00 E: [email protected] The three-star hotel comprises 115 including a pool, three saunas, a fitness E: [email protected] www.hotel-jelovica.si rooms, many of which are large triples. centre and massage parlour. www.hotel-krim.si There is a smaller boardroom, while Number of hotel rooms: 100 The hotel’s conference centre comprises three multifunctional halls suitable the two restaurants can be converted Number of hotel rooms: 115 for the organisation of business meeting and social gatherings, the largest of into space for larger meetings. which has a capacity of up to 150 participants. Friendly multilingual hotel staff are always on hand to ensure events run smoothly. The hotel restaurant has a The Krim Hotel serves fine homemade fare and gives guests a chance to unwind summer terrace and can accommodate up to 190 guests indoors. in its K-Bar, which is frequented by many local residents of Bled. For the convenience of guests, there is also a smaller wellness studio that encompasses Another welcome feature of the hotel is its entertainment club with billiards, saunas, a Jacuzzi and massage parlour. table football, darts and a dance floor.

Hall A + B 150 100 30 60 70 179 sq m Hall A 80 60 30 40 50 122 sq m Main restaurant 100 70 50 60 / 150 sq m Hall B 40 30 20 20 30 67 sq m Taverna 30 30 20 / / 50 sq m Hall C 30 26 20 / 20 38 sq m Boardroom / / 12 / / 18 sq m

16 Meeting facilities 17 Savica Hotel Bled Congress Centre

The friendly Savica Hotel is next to With 512 seats, the Bled Congress Centre is Bled’s largest convention hall. It the Golf Hotel and is especially geared boasts a superb location next to the lake shore in the very heart of the town, Hotel Savica towards families with children. It enabling easy access from several hotels of various categories, which are all Bled Congress Centre Cankarjeva 6 features 104 rooms and a breakfast within walking distance. Cesta svobode 11 4260 Bled room, while all other amenities are at 4260 Bled The centre was built in 1961 for a large chess event and underwent a thorough T: +386 4 579 17 00 guests’ disposal in its sister Golf Hotel. renovation prior to Bled hosting the 1989 World Rowing Championships. E: [email protected] In addition to half-board dinners in T: +386 4 572 97 79 Subsequent refurbishments in 2008 and 2011 further enhanced and modernised www.sava-hotels-resorts.com the Golf Hotel, guests of the Savica E: [email protected] the facility, which is the prime setting for larger corporate, association, scientific can use its fabulous pools free of www.kongresni-center-bled.si and governmental meetings, as well as cultural events. charge. The hotel’s environmental care policy has earned it the EU eco label. In addition to the main amphitheatre hall, which has a stage and is equipped with state-of-the-art technical amenities, there are three break-out rooms, of which one can accommodate up to 150 delegates, and two are suitable for up to 40. Additional meeting space is available in nearby hotels. The foyer serves as registration and exhibition area, and can be used for coffee breaks and receptions, for which a catering service is on hand. Professional support services by a dedicated team of meeting specialists ensure each event Jadran Hotel held in the Bled Congress Centre is a success.

The Jadran Hotel is opposite the Large Hall A 500 / / / / 500 sq m Grand Hotel Toplice, on a little hill Medium Hall B 120 60 40 40 150 100 sq m Hotel Jadran overlooking the lake. With 45 rooms, Small Hall C 20 - 30 10 15 / 30 35 sq m Cesta svobode 12 this traditional hotel is one of the 4260 Bled smaller Bled hotels, and is popular Small Hall D 20 - 30 10 15 / 30 35 sq m T: +386 4 579 13 65 with guests who prefer the homely Foyer / / / / 400 500 sq m E: [email protected] atmosphere of smaller establishments. www.sava-hotels-resorts.com It has its own breakfast room, while other facilities are at guests’ disposal in the Grand Hotel Toplice and its Panorama Restaurant.

Trst Hotel

The Trst Hotel is in the centre of Bled, opposite its sister Grand Hotel Toplice and the Panorama Restaurant. Hotel Trst The hotel has 28 rooms and a rich Cesta svobode 12 tradition dating back to 1900. Hotel 4260 Bled guests are invited to have breakfast in T: +386 4 579 10 00 the Panorama Restaurant and to use E: [email protected] the other facilities of the Grand Hotel www.sava-hotels-resorts.com Toplice.

18 Meeting facilities 19 Legend of the widow Poliksena and the sunken bell

Around 1500, the castle administrator was Hartman Kreigh, who ruled with an iron fist. One day, he disappeared without trace, never to be seen again. His wife Poliksena, also a merciless lady, was inconsolable. In his memory, she gathered all her gold and silver to have a bell cast for the island chapel. However, while the bell was being carried over to the island, a severe storm sprang up, capsizing the boat, taking the boatmen and the bell to the bottom with it. Devastated, Poliksena left Bled to enter a convent. When the Pope heard her story, he cast a new bell and sent it to Bled, but it is said that the original bell can still be heard tolling at the bottom of the lake on windy nights to this day. Bled Castle

The imposing Bled Castle has been brooding over the lake on a steep 130m rock for centuries. Mentioned in written sources as early as 1011, it is Slovenia’s oldest castle. Most of the castle in its current shape is from the Renaissance period, while the daun­ting stone walls stem from the Romanesque. Zavod za kulturo Bled The castle is a unique viewpoint, with beautiful vistas across the lake, island T: +386 4 572 97 70, +386 4 572 97 82 and surrounding villages, and extending as far as the Karavanke and Julian E: [email protected] Alps. Attractions include an ancient printing works with a reconstruction of www.blejski-grad.si Gutenberg’s prin­ting press, on which certificates can be printed, a wine cellar where guests are welcome to seal their own bottle of wine, a herbal gallery Bled Castle Restaurant with its offer of natural products and a forge, testimony to the rich local T: +386 4 579 44 24 heritage of blacksmithing, where you can mint your own coin. E: [email protected] You might also be interested in the museum with its presentation of the history www.hotelastoria-bled.com of Bled, a beautiful frescoed gothic chapel and a 12-metre-deep well. The castle restaurant is managed by the Bled College for Catering, providing excellent service and fine cuisine. Function spaces include the main restaurant, which can accommo­date up to 60 guests, the Knights’ Hall and the wonderful upper castle terrace. Upon request, a group of ac­tors in medieval costumes will take you back in time, entertaining guests with dances, knights’ duels and fire breathing. Bled Castle is road-accessible by car, van and bus. There is a large car park on top of the castle hill, by the gate to the castle and drawbridge.

20 Special venues 21 Bled Island Pletna boats The island on Lake Bled is a charming sight that, together with the mighty castle, adds to the everlasting allure of Bled. The ride in a traditional wooden The pletna boats, the origins of which ‘pletna’ boat to reach it is an adventure in its own right. Alternatively, go back to the 12th century, are rowed visitors may opt to row to the island themselves, while in particularly cold by a boatman standing upright. They are T: +386 4 576 79 79 winters when the lake freezes it is even possible to walk there. F: +386 4 576 79 01 covered by a linen roof, which probably E: [email protected] The first sight on the island is a monumental 17th-century stairway with gives them their name. 99 steps, above all a challenge to newlywed grooms, who according to E: [email protected] Boat traffic on the lake was regulated tradition must carry their brides all the way to the top. Having mastered this E: [email protected] by Empress Maria Theresa in the 18th successfully, the easier task of ringing the wishing bell in the Church of the www.blejskiotok.si century, who gave 22 families the rights Assumption of Mary to make your dreams come true awaits every visitor. to operate boats. Their descendants retain Another special feature on Slovenia’s only island is the free-standing belfry, these rights to this day. the construction of which was surely influenced by the Venetian school. Earthly pleasures are catered for in the island’s newest addition, the so- called ‘potičnica’. This unique café and shop sells delicious traditional festive ‘potica’ cakes that come in sweet and savoury varieties, with a seemingly The origins of the endless selection of fillings. lake

Long ago, where the lake is today, there was once a verdant valley with a little hill atop it. These were idyllic times; shepherds would graze their sheep in the valley and on nights of the full moon, beautiful fairies climbed the hill to dance on its velvet-soft grass. One day, however, a herd of sheep managed to escape and grazed on the hill instead of in their rightful place in the valley. Come the next full moon, the fairies went once more to their favourite playground, but Did you one happened to fall and sprain her ankle. know? This made the fairies so angry with the shepherds that they summoned all the waters from the surrounding mountains Legend has it that the island to descend and flood the valley. And this was once a shrine to Živa, the is how the lake and the island came to be. old Slavic goddess of fertility and love. During Napoleonic times, the impoverished French army removed all church bells from the island, but saved the wishing bell.

22 Special venues 23 Straža Hill Bled Golf Course

Bled Adventure Park Straža is a 634-metre hill close to the centre of Bled. A chairlift takes visitors to its Distinguished by idyllic countryside and majestic views of the surrounding Bled Golf Course T: +386 31761 661 peak, from where breathtaking views of the lake, the castle and the surrounding mountain ranges, the Bled Golf Course ranks among central Europe’s most Vrba 37a E: [email protected] mountains unfold. beautiful and oldest golf courses. Constructed in 1937, its 18-hole King’s Course 4274 Žirovnica www.pustolovski-park-bled.si was redesigned by Donald Harradine in 1972 and joined by the 9-hole Lake Course T: +386 4 537 77 11 The beautiful forest on top of Straža Hill is the setting of the Bled Adventure in 1993. The two courses are suitable for beginners and professional golfers alike, E: [email protected] Park, which offers visitors the chance to enjoy adrenaline-pumping activities in Summer tobogganing and pride themselves on great open spaces and fairytale countryside. The offer www.sava-hotels-resorts.com the great outdoors. The park comprises five tracks of different difficulty levels T: +386 4 578 05 39 for golfers further includes three practice greens and a driving range. with as many as 71 attractions, designed as a passage from treetop to treetop. E: [email protected] King’s Club House The thrilling activities are led by skilled instructors from Koren Sports, the The King’s Club House on the Bled Golf Course is a gem of rustic architecture www.infrastruktura-bled.si T: +386 4 537 83 00 foremost Slovenian outdoor and teambuilding agency, ensuring top-quality with a homely atmosphere, delighting guests with excellent international and E: [email protected] equipment and safe use of the polygon. regional cuisine. Social gatherings can be organised in its beautiful restaurant, Log Cabin www.sava-hotels-resorts.com seating up to 95 guests, or on one of the outdoor terraces, suitable for 100 and T: +386 41 444 017 After a fun visit to the Adventure Park, guests can restore themselves in the log 50 guests respectively. E: [email protected] cabin, where picnic menus and traditional dishes from the kettle are available. Lake House Alternatively, the Alpine-style Lake House beckons for an informal get-together T: +386 4 537 33 05 For an additional rush of adrenaline, the summer tobogganing track takes guests in its pleasant familiar interior or on its shady terrace overlooking the Lake E: [email protected] back to the valley. The Bled Adventure Park operates from April to October, while Course. www.lake-house-bled.com the Straža Hill becomes a ski slope when the snow descends in winter.

24 Special venues 25 Vila Prešeren Velika & Mala Zaka

The Vila Prešeren is a trendy café, restaurant and guesthouse housed in a Velika Zaka and Mala Zaka are bays on Lake Bled, opposite the town centre. traditional 19th century villa set beneath the castle hill, directly on the lake Velika Zaka serves as the finish for rowing competitions, the infrastructure for shore. Its sunny lakeside terrace is the place to see and be seen in Bled, with a which can be used as a special venue. The stand is ideal for watching races or Inter Games Bled Vila Prešeren cup or glass of a beverage from the Vila Prešeren’s selected offer in hand. The performances, while the VIP lounge in the stand and the umpires’ tower on the Velika Zaka Veslaška promenada 14 emphasis in the cuisine is on modern, light dishes with a Mediterranean twist, opposite shore are suitable for receptions of 100 and 50 guests respectively. T: +386 40 700 007 4260 Bled as well as grilled delicacies and mouth-watering desserts from its own patisserie. [email protected] T: +386 4 575 25 10 The beach at Velika Zaka can be reached from the centre of Bled by means of a www.gamesbled.com E: [email protected] For a reception or barbecue, larger gatherings can make use of the terrace in tourist train and is a wonderful location for fun and active get-togethers. The www.vilapreseren.si nice weather, while there are also two interconnected rooms indoors. Setting Inter Games Centre offers beach volleyball, basketball, trampolining and several Other venues: up a marquee in front of the Vila Prešeren will enable you to hold a memorable other entertaining games. Bled Tourist Board & cocktail party for up to 250 guests here. Another base appropriate for sporting events is Mala Zaka, which hosts Convention Bureau traditional events such as rowing competitions, the triathlon and the 10km T: +386 4 578 05 00 summer night run around Lake Bled. E: [email protected] www.bled.si

Radovljica Mansion Bled Sports Hall The old town of Radovljica, merely 7km from Bled, seems steeped in ancient time. Medieval The Bled Sports Hall is in the centre of Bled, adjacent to a large car park and the Turizem Radovljica houses line its pedestrianised core, and the main square is proudly overlooked by the Krim Hotel. It was built in 1979 and fully renovated for the 35th Chess Olympiad, Infrastruktura Bled d.o.o. Linhartov trg 9 magnificent Radovljica Mansion, which boasts an opulent 18th century façade. which was held here in 2002. In addition to hosting training sessions and T: +386 4 578 05 34 competitions in ice sports such as ice hockey, skating and curling, it is suitable 4240 Radovljica The mansion houses the remarkable apicultural museum, showcasing the rich tradition of E: [email protected] T: +386 4 531 51 12 for diverse exhibitions, concerts and meetings of up to 5,000 participants. www.infrastruktura-bled.si beekeeping in Slovenia, and plays host to numerous temporary exhibitions and concerts. Its The Bled Sports Hall has been the setting of various ice hockey and skating World E: [email protected] grand double staircase lends the palace an air of sophistication, while the jewel in its crown www.radolca.si Cup competitions, as well as the 2003 European Youth Olympic Festival and the is the high-ceilinged light and airy Baroque Hall, which makes a unique setting for receptions 15th Senior World Taekwondo Championship in 2007. Its great acoustics make and gala dinners. The hall can accommodate up to 120 guests at round tables and can be joined it a favourite venue for concerts, such as the Alpine Evening and the Folk Music to the adjacent frescoed Dance Hall to seat an additional 80. With two of the most famous Hit Parade, which are held here annually. traditional Slovenian inns just a stone’s throw away, excellent catering services are always on hand. The glass-covered atrium, foyer and outdoor terrace are also suitable for receptions, which may be enriched with elements from the local heritage.

26 Special venues 27 Triglavska roža Bled Service providers Triglav National Park Info Centre

Triglavska Roža Bled The Triglavska roža Info Centre provides visitors with information on the Triglav Kompas DMC Life Events – Lajf d.o.o. Triglav National Park National Park, the only such park in Slovenia and one of the oldest in Europe, PCOs Pražakova 4 Bleiweisova cesta 30 Info Centre which extends over 880 sq km in north-western Slovenia. The park, named after Albatros Bled 1000 Ljubljana 4000 Kranj Ljubljanska cesta 27 the highest Slovenian peak, covers the eastern part of the Julian Alps and takes Ribenska cesta 2 T: +386 1 200 61 74 T: +386 4 201 48 75 4260 Bled in 4% of Slovenia’s territory. It has two million visitors a year. 4260 Bled E: [email protected] E: [email protected] T: + 386 4 578 02 05 The info centre showcases the park’s wonderful natural assets and cultural T: +386 4 578 03 50 www.kompasmice.com www.lifeevents.si E: [email protected] heritage and organises regular presentations and exhibitions, as well as a E: [email protected] www.tnp.si monthly market of organic produce from the farms within the park. www.albatros-bled.com Liberty Incentives & Congresses Lifetrek – Promontana d.o.o. Slovenia Partizanska cesta 18 As of March 2013, the Triglavska roža will become a regional visitor centre whose Dunajska 109 4000 Kranj main tasks will be the supply of information to tourists and environmental 1000 Ljubljana T: +386 4 201 48 74 protection. Among other things, the extensive renovation will add a state-of-the DMCs T: +386 1 232 11 71 E: [email protected] art multimedia room to its facilities. Kompas Bled d.d. Ljubljanska 4 E: [email protected] www.lifetrek.si 4260 Bled www.liberty-slovenia.com T: +386 4 572 75 00 TBA d.o.o. E: [email protected] Vodnikova cesta 252 www.kompas-bled.si Event agencies 1000 Ljubljana Amigo Bled T: +386 59 072 070 M Tours Bled d.o.o. Cesta svobode 15 E: [email protected] Prešernova 3 4260 Bled www.tba.si 4260 Bled T: +386 59 973 250 T: +386 4 575 33 00 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] www.amigo.si Organisation of www.mtours.net Helia sports events Bled Tours Trubarjeva 8 Si Sport d.o.o. Avsenik Inn Ljubljanska 19 4260 Bled Poslovna cona A 37 The family name Avsenik is a synonym for ‘oberkrainer’ Alpine music, renowned 4260 Bled T: +386 4 576 56 04 4208 Šenčur and venerated all around the globe. The Avsenik Orchestra, founded by Slavko T: +386 4 574 35 20 E: [email protected] T: +386 4 279 19 00 Avsenik, has sold over 30 million records and influenced countless other bands. E: [email protected] www.helia.si E: [email protected] For an authentic ‘oberkrainer’ evening, head to the Avsenik Inn in Begunje, www.bledtours.si www.si-sport.si which is run by Slavko’s family. The inn prides itself on its warm hospitality, fine Safari Company Avsenik Inn cuisine and a pleasant ambience characterised by Avsenik music. Four Seasons Travel Jože Borse s.p. Begunje 21 Ljubljanska 7 Zgornje Gorje 50 4275 Begunje na Gorenjskem 4260 Bled 4247 Zgornje Gorje T: +386 40 522 365 Tel: +386 51 411 274 T: +386 4 533 34 02 E: [email protected] [email protected] E: [email protected] www.4seasonstravelslovenia.com www.safaricomp.com www.avsenik.com iDMC – Incentive & Destination 3glav Adventures Management Company Ljubljanska 1 The salon can accommodate groups Stegne 3 4260 Bled of up to 80, while the multi-purpose 1000 Ljubljana T: +386 41 683 184 hall has a large stage and can hold up T: +386 59 01 77 46 E: [email protected] to 250 guests. There are frequent live E: [email protected] www.3glav-adventures.com concerts of ‘oberkrainer’ orchestras, www.idmc.eu and guests can visit a museum on the Koren Sports / Humanfish premises. Intours DMC – Demaco d.o.o. Pot na Bistriško planino 10 Dalmatinova 3 4290 Tržič 1000 Ljubljana T: +386 4 59 22 700 T: +386 1 430 35 50 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] www.humanfish.com www.intours-mice.si

28 Service providers 29 Incentive & teambuilding programmes

Bled’s setting amidst unspoilt countryside, its rich history and cultural heritage, Teambuilding: sports or games? as well as traditional local fare and contemporary Slovenian cuisine all make a solid base for entertaining group activities. Whether your preference is for an A number of professional teambuilding agencies are on hand to guide your group adrenaline rush, a mysterious legend or a farmer’s task, or you would rather get through specially-designed activities to strengthen co-operation and enhance to know the secrets of one of Slovenia’s best chefs, Bled is sure to live up to your team spirit. Innovative treasure hunts, programmes comprising unusual expectations with its wealth of programmes designed for groups and teams. sporting activities, competitions and races, as well as entertaining teambuilding games to get to know the town and its attractions are all available. Stunning nature and invigorating exercise Bled cuisine: rustically filling or contemporarily There are almost limitless possibilities for spending an active day in the great outdoors with your options including a rowing regatta on the lake, cycling sophisticated? through traditional villages, hiking to the waterfall at the end of , Get to know the local ingredients for a satisfying meal: buckwheat, cottage a round of golf, a white-water quest or a visit to Bled Adventure Park. In winter, cheese, fresh mushrooms, apples, honey and wild garlic. Make your own lunch you can test your skills at telemark or old-timer skiing, enjoy sledging from a from what you have gathered in the woods and picked from farms in the area or mountain pass, learn the basics of ski jumping or try biathlon at the Pokljuka join a culinary workshop led by a renowned chef of the new generation, learning World Cup venue. Whatever the season, a balloon ride over the lake is always to use innovative methods to transform a traditional dish into a modern culinary simply unforgettable. masterpiece and matching it with the most complementary noble drop.

Historical facts and mysterious legends Festive Bled performances Legends shrouded in mystery swirl around Bled, such as that of the beautiful A number of festive shows are available in Bled to enhance gala receptions goddess inhabiting the island, or the sunken bell chiming from the depths of and create a special atmosphere. The performances take place on the lake or the lake. Claims about Arnold Rikli, King Alexander Karađorđević and President incorporate the castle rock to showcase the symbols of the town and present its Tito of Yugoslavia, prominent personalities who left their mark on the history history and legends in a modern way. of Bled, wait to be proven or discounted. Alternatively, you can step back in time TheLegend of the Sunken Bell re-enacts the ancient tale of a young widow who watching a medieval performance at Bled Castle or enjoy a ride aboard a steam had a bell cast in memory of her murdered husband. During the performance, an railway. illuminated bell is lifted from the lake by divers while the legend is theatrically narrated. Traditional farms and ancient crafts TheBled Water Symphony relates the history of Bled to a musical background. Why not visit a local farm and get to know the secrets of organic farming, cattle Fairytale water and light effects add to the attraction of the show and summon breeding, beekeeping, distilling, herb-gathering or cheese-making? The cultural up the water fairy. heritage of the region is tightly linked to its rural lifestyle, and teambuilding programmes include hands-on activities as well as a chance to sample locally The laser show projected to the produced delicacies. Time-honoured crafts, such as the production of honey- dramatic castle rock is a fascinating bread hearts, can also be incorporated into a fun group task. sight and can be tailor-made to suit For additional information on your requirements. performances, please contact: Bled Tourist Board & Convention Bureau

Cesta svobode 11 4260 Bled

T: +386 4 578 05 00 E: [email protected] www.bled.si

30 Incentive & teambuilding programmes 31 Excursions from Bled Ljubljana No visit to Slovenia would be complete without a look around its charming capital city. Ljubljana’s attractive medieval core lies at the foot of a steep hill and is overlooked by the imposing Ljubljana castle. The Ljubljanica river winds Radovljica & Kropa Lake Bohinj slowly through the city, with numerous cafés and restaurants lining its banks Radovljica is a delightful medieval A short drive from Bled along and adding to the capital’s relaxed flair. Architectural treasures include the town only 7km from Bled. Venerable the picturesque Bohinj Valley many creations of Jože Plečnik, such as the Triple Bridge and colonnaded houses line its compact core, the is Lake Bohinj, the largest non- central market, where residents flock to buy the ingredients for their home oldest of which, the frescoed Šivec seasonal lake in Slovenia, which cooking. Ljubljana is also a city of culture, with numerous interesting House, dates from the 16th century. lies within the Triglav National museums and galleries, as well as regular cultural performances. The main square is overlooked by Park and is embraced by beautiful the majestic Radovljica Mansion, countryside. A fairly short hike which houses an interesting apicul­ from the lake shore takes you up tural museum. For more cultural to the dramatic Savica waterfall, heritage, head for Kropa, a nearby while Mount Vogel can be easily settlement renowned for its tra­ reached by cable car. The views dition of blacksmithing that goes that open up from the top across all the way back to the 14th century. the lake and the mountains are An iron forging museum gives you simply unforgettable. Guests an insight into this ancient trade. may get to know the traditional Škocjan Caves & Lipica Postojna Caves & Predjama rural life of the area in the remarkable alpine dairy museum The Škocjan Caves are a less- Castle and Oplen house. The route over frequented, but no less beautiful The underworld of the world-famous ca­ the Pokljuka Plateau offers a very alternative to the caves at ves at Postojna is a true marvel, with Škofja Loka & Idrija scenic alternative to the main Postojna. A UNESCO world their maze of mysterious underground heritage site, the canyon of the A stroll through Škofja Loka, one of road for getting back to Bled. passages, galleries and halls embellished Škocjan Caves is an amazing the best-preserved medieval towns by stalagmites and stalactites of all shapes natural attraction with gigantic in the country, reveals historic and sizes. At the end of the tour, which is underground halls. The river treasures and is rounded off by undertaken partly by electric underground that formed it flows through the a visit to its fascinating castle. A train and partly on foot, a look at the unique canyon, adding to its magnetism. scenic route through a remote and ‘human fish’ awaits you. These unusual Nearby at Lipica Stud Farm, the hilly region will take you onwards cave dwellers were once thought to be baby famous white Lipizzaner horses to Idrija, a town famous for its age- dragons, and it is not difficult to see why. are bred. A performance by the old tradition of mercury mining, Your tour of Postojna may be complemented Spanish Riding School will round which you can get to know first- by a visit to Predjama Castle, an imposing off this fascinating trip to the hand in Anthony’s shaft of Idrija rock-carved structure and former residence Slovenian Karst region. mine. In addition to mining, Idrija of the legendary robber knight Erasmus. is also renowned for another craft, the making of beautiful lace. The coast The sun-kissed Slovenian coast is blessed by a captivating blend Julian Alps of attractions, ranging from the Venetian fishing villages of Piran This trip takes you through the heart of and Izola with their quaint cobbled the Triglav National Park, where you are lanes, to the amazing salt pans at sure to be wowed by the vistas of majestic Sečovlje and the contemporary mountains, deep valleys and dense fo­ resort of Portorož. The hamlets rests. From Vršič, the highest Slovenian inland are characterised by beau­ mountain pass, you descend into the valley tiful scenery, attractive stone of the amazing emerald Soča River and houses and a traditional lifestyle find yourself in Slovenia’s centre for white- based on the treasures bestowed on water and adventure sports. This region is them by the olive tree and the vine. also known for its turbulent history, having been the site of many fierce battles during WWI, which were immortalised by Ernest Hemingway in A Farewell to Arms.

32 Excursions from Bled 33 Bled Tourist Board & Convention Bureau Cesta svobode 11 4260 Bled

T: +386 4 578 05 00 E: [email protected] www.bled.si

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