Hot Air Balloon over Bled, Bled

The most famous example of Slovenia's beautiful pastoral countryside, Lake Bled's picture-postcard lake with its peaceful island is one of the country's most visited attractions. The lake adjoins the town of Bled and sits in the country's northwestern corner, not far from Ljubljana, the capital city (34 miles / 55 km). Backed by lush forest and surrounded by the soaring peaks of the Julian Alps, Lake Bled's fairytale shores draw in crowds of foreign and local visitors alike, from honeymooners looking to immerse themselves in the romantic setting to adventure-seekers who come for the hiking, biking, and water-sport prospects.

Rise before the break of dawn for an exciting, unique—and possibly romantic—way to welcome in the day: a majestic hot air balloon ride. You'll meet the pilot and climb into the basket of your personal hot air balloon for an epic flight over Lake Bled and the surrounding rural terrain as the sun crests the Julian Alps and Karavanks. Looking like something out of a children's storybook, you'll drift peacefully overhead while taking in the scene below: scattered picturesque villages, rolling hills, and Slovenia's oldest golf course, as well as the bluish-green Lake Bled and its namesake island and cliff-clinging castle.

Following the 60-90 minute flight, you'll help your pilot deflate the balloon but not before sharing in a celebratory glass of champagne—a tradition that dates back to the early days of ballooning—and receiving the honorary title of Baroness or Baron of Bled to commemorate your flight. And if that wasn't decadent enough, you'll find your way to an elegant rooftop terrace to enjoy a slice of the famous Bled cream cake, affectionately known as Kremšnita, with a gorgeous panoramic view over Lake Bled.