Slovenia is located on the border of Central and Southern Europe, on the northwestern tip of the Balkan Peninsula. It has a predominantly mountainous relief, known for karst phenomena. Most of it is located in the temperate continental climate zone.
The length of the borders is 1,086 km. In the west, Slovenia borders on Italy (199 km), in the north - on Austria (330 km), in the northeast - on Hungary (102 km), from the east and south - on Croatia (455 or 670 km). Slovenia has access to the Gulf of Trieste of the Adriatic Sea and occupies part of the Istrian peninsula, where the main port of the country, the city of Koper, stands. The length of the coast is 46.6 km, territorial waters - 12 nautical miles.
Slovenia is a mountainous country. Its northern and northwestern parts are the spurs of the Alps (30% of the country's territory is the Julian Alps with the country's highest point Mount Triglav, 2864 m; Karavanke Mountains with the peak of Grintavets, 2558 m). The southern and western regions belong to the periphery of the Dinaric Highlands (30%), and the extreme northeast belongs to the periphery of the Middle Danube Plain (30%). The relief of the country is strongly dissected. Within the Dinaric Highlands, karst landforms are widely developed, one of the largest caves in Europe - Postojnska-Yama from the Pivka River, which has an underground runoff for a considerable length.
The main rivers of Slovenia are the Sava, Drava and Soča with their tributaries. These are mountain rivers with significant hydropower potential (cascades of hydroelectric power stations have been built on them), but unsuitable for navigation. Some areas of Slovenia, especially karst ones, are generally devoid of rivers.
Historical regionsTraditionally, 4 regions are distinguished on the territory of Slovenia, which differ from the modern administrative division of the country and are based on the borders of the Slovenian crown lands of the Habsburg dynasty: Carniola, Carinthia, Styria and Slovenian Primorje (marked with number 1 in the diagram). Historical regions are made up of regions.
Geology and relief of Slovenia
The relief of Slovenia is predominantly mountainous; 4 regions can be distinguished on its territory. In the northwestern and northern parts of the country are the Eastern Alps, which occupy approximately 2/5 of the territory. In the northwest are the Julian Alps, where Mount Triglav (2864 m) rises - the highest point in the country. In the north, along the border with Austria, the Karavanke ridge stretches (mountain Veliky Stol, 2236 m), to the south the Savinsky Alps rise (mountain Grintavets, 2558 m), to the east - the Pohorje massif (mountain Chrni-Vrh, 1543 m). The second largest region (1/4 of the territory) occupies the southwest of the country - this is the Kras limestone plateau, the northwestern end of the Dinaric highlands. The word "karst" comes from the name of this plateau, since this arid plateau is world famous for its karst relief and caves (Postojnska Pit, Škocjan Caves).
In the east of the country there is a flat fertile area (1/5 of the territory), where the western outskirts of the Middle Danube Lowland is located. In the east, between the rivers Drava-Mura, there is a hilly region of Slovenske-Gorice. East of the Mura, to the border with Hungary - the region of Slovenska Krajna. In the west, off the coast of the Adriatic Sea, there is a narrow strip of the coastal plain (1/12 of the country's territory), called Primorsk (includes the Slovenian part of Istria, areas adjacent to the Adriatic coast, and the valleys of the Soča and Vipava rivers). In the bowels of Slovenia there are minerals: brown coal, ores of lead, zinc, mercury, uranium, silver, as well as building stone.
Tectonic faults pass through the territory of the country, along which such earthquakes as happened in Ljubljana in 1895 are possible.
Climate of Slovenia
The climate of Slovenia is influenced by the proximity of the Adriatic Sea and the Alps, which trap air masses from the south and close the country's territory from cold northern winds. There are three climatic zones: the coastal regions of Istria, the central region and the eastern part of the country.
The coast of the Adriatic Sea has a subtropical climate of the Mediterranean type, typical for the Dalmatian coast. Summer temperatures often rise above 27 °C (June-July) and winter temperatures rarely fall below 10 °C, but sometimes the air temperature is affected by the cold north wind of the bora. Precipitation is maximum in spring and autumn (up to 381 mm per month).
The northern and central regions of Slovenia, which make up most of its territory, are located in a temperate continental climate with hot summers and cool winters. On the plateau and in the intermountain valleys, the average January temperature is from 0 to -2 °C, in the mountains - from -4 to -6 °C. The average July temperature is 18-19 °C in the foothills and 15-17 °C in the mountains. Precipitation is more than 950 mm per year, in mountainous areas this figure exceeds 2000 mm in some places. The third (eastern) part of the country is characterized by mild winters, from November to February the temperature often drops below zero, but the snow falls less frequently and melts quickly. The maximum mid-summer temperature often rises above 21°C, with an average annual rainfall of 700mm.
Water resources of Slovenia
Lake Bohinj The total amount of renewable water resources is 32.1 km3 (2005). Most of the rivers in Slovenia belong to the Danube basin. The largest of them, the Sava River, begins in the Julian Alps at the confluence of the Sava Dolinka and Sava Bohinjka rivers and crosses the country from northwest to southeast, a railway to Zagreb and Belgrade passes through its valley. The Sava basin includes the rivers Krka, Kolpa (Kupa) and Ljubljanica, on which the capital of the country stands. The rivers Drava (source in the Austrian land of Carinthia) and its tributaries - the Mura (source in the Austrian land of Styria), Dravina, etc. flow through the eastern regions of Slovenia. The Soča River (with a tributary of the Vipava), which begins at Mount Triglav and flows along the western extremity of the country, as well as the River Reka, which has laid part of its channel under the Kras plateau. The rivers of Slovenia are unsuitable for navigation, but are used for hydropower purposes (cascades of hydroelectric power stations have been built).
The lakes of Slovenia are predominantly mountainous, glacial - Lake Bohinj (the largest of the permanent lakes), Lake Bled and Lake Triglav, there are also karst reservoirs, such as Wild Lake and the disappearing Lake Cerknica.
Soils of Slovenia
The complex geology of Slovenia has affected the distribution of soils. The small thick Pleistocene layer has high acidity and viscosity. Brown forest and mountain forest soils predominate, and the underlying layer of carbonate rocks is suitable for the growth of tree species. Alluvial and swampy soils occur in the valleys; karst funnels and dips are filled with red earth.
Arable land 8.53%, land occupied by permanent grain crops - 1.43% (2005). 30 km2 of land is irrigated (2003).
Flora and fauna of Slovenia
Hills near the city of Idrija Flora of Slovenia reflects the physiographic diversity and is represented by 3200 species of vascular plants, of which 66 are endemic, and 330 are listed in the Red Book.
Forests are distributed mainly in mountainous areas and occupy about 3/5 of the country's territory. Slovenia ranks third in Europe after Finland and Sweden in terms of forest area. The lower parts of the slopes (up to a height of about 600 m) are occupied by oak-hornbeam forests with an admixture of maple, linden and ash, above - beech-fir forests, turning into pine-spruce (including juniper). In the upper belt of mountain ranges (above 1800 m), subalpine and alpine meadows are developed. On the Kras Plateau, vegetation is sparse, of a steppe character, there are shrub thickets and sparse oak and hornbeam forests. Mediterranean shrubs (maquis) grow in coastal areas.
Alpine ibex in the mountains of Slovenia The fauna of Slovenia includes about 13 thousand species, including 423 species of vertebrates and 400 endemics (mostly living in caves and karst reservoirs), as well as 238 species that are endangered. In the mountains of Slovenia are represented: mountain goat, European brown bear, lynx, wolf, chamois, roe deer, wild boar, badger, hare, marten. Snakes, lizards and turtles are found in karst areas, and proteas live in underground lakes. Birds are represented by capercaillie, partridges, falcons and other species. The waters of the Adriatic are not a particularly attractive habitat for fish, but the Soča River is home to trout and grayling. Also found are American char and Danube salmon.
Slovenia pays great attention to environmental protection and biodiversity conservation. The total area of protected areas is 140.4 thousand hectares (8% of the country's area). The Julian Alps contain the only Triglav National Park, there are also 2 regional parks, 34 landscape parks, 49 nature reserves and 623 natural monuments.
Population of Slovenia Slovenia
As of July 2009, 2,005,692 inhabitants are registered in Slovenia. Slovenia ranks 145th in the world in terms of population. The average age of the population is 41.7 years. (men - 40, women - 43).
According to estimates for 2004, 2011.5 thousand people lived in Slovenia. As of 2004, 14.3% of the population belonged to the age group under 15 years old, 70.6% from 15 to 65 years old, and 15.1% over 65 years old. Population growth for 2004 was -0.01% with a birth rate of 8.9 per 1000 people, a death rate of 10.15 per 1000 and immigration of 2.11 per 1000. Infant mortality was estimated at 4.5 per 1000 newborns. Life expectancy is 75.93 years (for men - 72.18 years, for women - 79.92 years).
Of the successor countries of Yugoslavia, Slovenia is the most homogeneous in terms of ethnic composition: 88% of its population are Slovenes. Among the national minorities are Croats (3%), Serbs (2%), Bosnians (1%), Hungarians (0.4%), Italians and others. Religiously, 71% of the population are Catholics (including 2% are Uniates), 1% are Protestants, and 1% are Muslims. Slovenia is dominated by small towns. The largest of them are Ljubljana (257.9 thousand inhabitants in 2002), Maribor (97.7 thousand), Celje (38.5 thousand), Kranj (35.6 thousand), Velene (26.5 thousand .), Koper (23.6 thousand), Novo-Mesto (22.1 thousand).
Source - http://ru.wikipedia.org/
http://www.goslovenia.ru/
Lake Bohinj is the largest lake in Slovenia, many travelers call this place the most sincere and calm. Not all tourists come here, limiting themselves to visiting a more popular place - Lake Bled. However, Bohinj is worth it to overcome 26 km and find yourself at the largest lake in Slovenia on the territory of the Triglav Park.
general information
Bohinj is a unique lake that originated from a glacier. The attraction is located in the Julian Alps at an altitude of 525 m. The lake has an elongated shape, it is surrounded by mountains on three sides, and a road approaches it from the fourth side.
The region is part of a national park. Here is the highest point of the country - the top of Triglav (almost 2900 meters). The area of the lake is 3.18 sq. km, and the depth reaches 45 meters. Three times during the year, the water in the lake is renewed.
Interesting fact! A century ago, Bohinj was the largest metallurgical center of the country. Thanks to the efforts of Baron Sigismund Zeuss, the region became a resort and today attracts thousands of tourists.
People come here to stroll through the picturesque area and taste delicious Bohinj cheese.
Where to stay and what to do
Transport from the capital of Slovenia comes to the eastern part of Lake Bohinj (Slovenia), there are two villages here: Rybchev Laz and Stara Fuzhina. A little to the west is the village of Ukants.
Interesting to know! The length of the lake is 4.5 km, the largest width is 1.5 km. It will take 2.5 hours to go around the lakes around.
If you are traveling by car, choose any settlement that you like to live in. Lovers of peace and tranquility will like the villages of Stara Fuzhina and Ukants. Rybchev Laz is a rather noisy place, most of all the sights are concentrated here.
Rybchev Laz
This village can be called the center of social life in the area of Lake Bohinj. There is a tourist office, a supermarket with all necessary goods, cafes and small shops. The village is very beautiful. Here you can visit the church, built in the 11th century, walk the winding paths, rent bicycles, canoes or kayaks. Tourist boats depart from the pier in the village.
It's important to know! All transport from the capital of Slovenia, Ljubljana, arrives at the lake in Rybcev Laz. Many buses go to Ukanets, some buses turn right and go to Staraya Fuzhina.
Housing in Rybchev Laz is rented out first of all, so if you want to live here, book a hotel room or apartment in advance.
Stara Fuzhina
Fuzhina in translation from the local language means - a mine. Previously, miners lived in the village, today it is an incredibly beautiful place, decorated with flowers. There is a supermarket and a tourist office. They are located next to the bus stop.
The village has an atmosphere of calm and tranquility. Many travelers come here to feel the harmony with nature and just to contemplate the beautiful landscapes of mountainous Slovenia.
When booking accommodation in this village on Lake Bohinj in Slovenia, consider the distance to the tourist infrastructure and attractions. You have to walk about 2 km. You can, of course, rent a bike.
There is a cafe in the settlement - Mihovch, next to it there is a museum where old photographs and household items from different historical eras are collected. It also shows the process of making local cheeses.
Helpful information! The main advantage of living in Fuzhina is that the ascent to the top of Triglav begins here.
The most remote village and the final stop of the transport that follows from Ljubljana. There are a lot of houses near the stop, but if you go west, you will find yourself among spacious apartments, a mountain river flows nearby. Many tourists call this village the most beautiful, but housing here is quite expensive.
Helpful information! A tourist route passes through the village to the Savica waterfall, there are corresponding signs installed from the stop and further along the route.
Accommodation prices
The cost of living depends on the type of accommodation, its location and amenities in the room. Estimated housing prices are as follows.
- A 3* hotel room – from €55 per day;
- Rural homestead - from 65 €;
- Separate rooms in the houses of local residents - from 40 €;
- Accommodation in apartments will cost from 75 € per night.
You can also book a room at the hostel, its cost is from 50 € per day.
Campsites offer the cheapest accommodation - 30-40 €.
Find out the RATES or book any accommodation using this form
Things to do on Lake Bohinj
First of all, you need to purchase a tourist card, which can be of two types:
- for car owners (parking is provided), costs 15 euros;
- for tourists without a car, it costs 10 euros.
The card is valid for the entire duration of the holiday on the lake and entitles you to preferential visits to attractions and rental of equipment for sports. Together with the card, a person receives a transport schedule, location and description of all working shops and cafes. You can buy a card at the tourist office.
After purchasing the map, you can start exploring the surroundings. The pond is easy to get around on foot or rent a bike. For vacationers, several routes of different difficulty levels have been developed.
The Savica River flows out of the lake, on which the Savica waterfall is located. Entrance here is paid. The shortest river in Slovenia, the Jezernica, flows out of the waterfall. There is also a ski lift to the top of Mount Vogel.
Fishing and active sports
Another popular activity on the lake is fishing. It is allowed to catch fish not only in the lake, but also in the river. To do this, you will need to purchase equipment and a license. If you don't want to spend time on the river bank, just order a local fish dish at the restaurant.
You can swim in the lake, of course, if you are not afraid of water, the temperature of which is not higher than +15 and only in the summer months it warms up to +24 degrees. The bottom of the lake is strewn with small stones, so for swimming it is better to have coral slippers with you.
During the holidays, people here are happy to engage in various sports - yachting, paragliding, kayaking. For lovers of comfort, a boat is provided.
Visitors must go to the Church of St. John the Baptist, which is recognized as a historical monument of culture. Inside the church are unique frescoes that date back to the 14th century.
Helpful information! There are not many places to eat on the beach. Some cafes are open only during the daytime, in the evening many of them are closed and you can stay without dinner.
On the shore of the lake there is a monument to the white chamois. In Slovenia, there is a legend about a chamois with golden horns, she lived in a treasure garden located on a mountain top. Once a gold hunter shot a chamois, but a miracle happened and the animal came to life.
There is another legend according to which Bohinj is a land donated by God himself to people who patiently waited for their turn at a time when God was dividing the land. Translated from the local language, Bohinj means the place of God, which belongs to people.
Weather and climate, when is the best time to go
The warmest month in Bohinj is July. At night, the air temperature is +12 °C, and during the day - +23 °C. In the middle of summer, the water in the lake warms up to +24 °C. The least precipitation falls in December, and most often it rains in June.
The weather in Bohinj is conducive to relaxation throughout the year. In summer you can go to the mountains to the waterfall, ride bicycles, swim in the river and lake. This lake in Slovenia is perfect for lovers of a relaxing holiday and contemplation of nature. However, fans of outdoor activities will also find a lot of interesting things here - the opportunity to conquer the mountain peak. Fortunately, it is not necessary to be a climber for this, the routes are thought out and laid out in such a way that everyone can climb the mountain.
In winter, Bohinj is a Slovenian ski resort, skiers with different levels of training come here. Skiing is possible from December to April. If there is not enough snow on the slopes, snow cannons are used.
How to get to the lake
The most convenient way to get from Ljubljana to Lake Bohinj (Slovenia) is by bus. Flights depart every hour from Ljubljana's central bus station.
- The distance is only 86 km and tourist buses pass it in 2 hours.
- The first flight departs at 6:00 and the last one at 21:00.
- The ticket costs 8.3 euros.
You can view the current timetable and book a ticket on the website of the carrier Alpetour - www.alpetour.si.
You can also use the train, but this route is not very convenient, since you will have to overcome another 8 km from the railway station - by bus or taxi.
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Lake Bled is called the living room of the Julian Alps, and Bohinj is called the heart of the mountains. People come here for a few days to fully experience the slowness of life, to enjoy the solemn beauty of nature.
Lake Bohinj attracts with its intimacy, untouched nature and, of course, a high level of service. It's incredibly emotional here. Going to Bohinj, remember that all parking here is paid, but this is unlikely to overshadow the rest.
What else you need to know about Lake Bohinj - details in the video.
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Slovenia is a compact country that can surprise tourists with an abundance of natural attractions. Local residents believe that it was above their land that the creator scattered all the jewels: this small country is so rich in natural beauties. Mountains, sea, beaches, meadows, groves - all this pleases an inquisitive vacationer. But there are lakes Bled and Bohinj in Slovenia, which are a worthy decoration of its beauties. In any season of the year, tourists are happy to visit the resorts that are spread around the lakes.
Lake Bled
This natural curiosity occupies only 1.5 square meters. km of the earth's surface area. Every tourist who finds himself on the banks of Bled for the first time freezes in surprise, unable to utter a word - the landscape that opens his eyes is so striking. It is impossible to compare the purity of the local waters with any crystal, because the lake is transparent, and at a great depth you can see every pebble.
It is thanks to the mountain rivers that the lake has clean water, which changes three times a year. On the shore of Bled you can see swans and ducks swimming. Thermal springs flow near the lake, a balneological resort is built near them. It provides opportunities for recovery, good rest, conditions for sports. In summer, the water in the lake reaches 24 degrees, and vacationers bathe in clear alpine waters. Many people really like to conquer the mirror-like surface of the lake on “pletna” boats.
In the center of the water surface is a small Island. It barely fits Church of the Virgin Mary, which was built in the 16th century. Legends and mysteries envelop the ancient temple. According to one of them, the bell of the chapel will grant any wishes of the one who reaches and strikes it. And in bad weather at night from the bottom of the reservoir, the ringing of another bell is barely audible, crashed in a strong storm along with people. In order to climb the church tower, you need to go through a staircase with 99 steps. In the warm season, due to the lush vegetation from the shore of Bled, the buildings on the island are not visible except for the spire of the church, which today houses the Museum of Church Art. Hearing the enchanting ringing of the unique belfry located on the island, tourists seem to freeze in place, forgetting for a moment about the bustle of the surrounding world.
On the shore of the lake, on top of a high cliff, one can see an old lock, which already at the beginning of the 11th century is found in historical documents. During its long history, Bled Castle experienced a lot of grief and glory, oblivion and prosperity. After the collapse of Austria-Hungary, its first owners gave way to the grand structure of the monarchs of Yugoslavia. During the war, it was the headquarters of the Nazis, and during the socialist period, the residence of Tito.
At the present time bled castle is one of the main European architectural gems, which many visitors come to see every year. He cannot but attract attention; especially the way the castle is reflected in the waters of the lake. The building looks fantastic at night when it is skillfully illuminated. On the territory of the castle there is a historical museum, a restaurant and an observation deck, the panoramic view from which will not leave anyone indifferent and will evoke thoughts of harmony and perfection. It is believed that a walk through the courtyard of the castle forces you to listen every now and then: surprised tourists hear the ringing of medieval armor and the laughter of girls who fill goblets with wine of tired travelers.
On the shore of Lake Bled there is a small town with the same name, which since the 20th century has become one of the luxury resorts. Thermal springs are known for their healing effects, as well as comfortable hotels make this resort attractive for wealthy people who have been seen more than once in this place.
The swimming season on the lake lasts from July to the end of September. Mountain ranges protect from precipitation and cold winds. Favorable weather lasts from early spring to late autumn, which allows guests to come to rest to the lake most of the year.
People go to this place not only for treatment and relaxation, but also in order to touch the party life. The resort organizes many different cultural events that attract large crowds of tourists. Those who wish can see the performances of famous Slovenian musical groups, theater groups. You can buy unique products from local artisans. If you visit Bled at the end of July, then there is an opportunity to be at the annual festival, during which beautiful fireworks are organized on the lake. In August, an international festival of folklore art is held. Fans will be able to listen to classical music concerts. Sports events are also held: in the summer - this is the international rowing championship, in the winter - the biathlon championship.
Lake Bohinj
Slovenian Lake Bohinj is of glacial origin and is located 28 km from Lake Bled and less than 90 km from Ljubljana. It is located at an altitude of 525 m above sea level and is spread out on three sides in the arms of the Julian Alps. Not far from the lake is the highest point in Slovenia - this Mount Triglav, which is the national pride and symbol of the country.
Lake Bohinj is wonderful a place to rest and sports in all seasons of the year. The small resort of Bohinj attracts lovers of quiet outdoor recreation, because this is facilitated by clean mountain air, pristine nature, and breathtaking landscapes.
The lake will not leave indifferent those who are fond of active sports: horseback riding, hiking, rafting, cycling.
In summer, not only fans of family vacations and fishing enthusiasts come to the lake, but also lovers of extreme sports such as paragliding, kayaking, rafting, mountaineering. During the warm months, the water temperature in the lake is 23 degrees, so in summer the shores of Bohinj turn into beaches.
At the boat station you can rent a boat, thus contemplative rest will be provided for the whole day. In the evening you can spend time in cafes, bars or visit a disco. There are many excellent restaurants in the Bohinj resort, which are known for their excellent cuisine.
In winter, Lake Bohinj becomes a popular and well-known ski resort. Not far from the lake are the ski centers Vogel and Kobla.
On this lake, tourists in full sea can feel unity with nature and feel its harmony. The camera will capture landscapes so beautiful that your head will spin. In the clear waters of the lake you can see the reflection of mountain peaks and the emerald of alpine meadows.
The unique precious Slovenian lakes are so diverse and amazing that everyone who discovers them will become a little kinder, better and cleaner. Holidays on the Slovenian lakes Bled or Bohinj will leave the most vivid impressions, give you a great mood, help you improve your health and give you the opportunity to visit a fairy tale.
Located on the conditional border of Central and Southern Europe, it is predominantly mountainous, belonging to the Eastern Alps, located in the northern and northwestern part of the country. Lakes of glacial origin, also formed by karst processes, can be found in almost the entire territory of Slovenia. The most picturesque and famous of the mountain lakes of Slovenia - Lake Bohinj and Lake Bled - belong to those spurs of the Eastern Alps in the north-west of the country, which are commonly called the Julian (Julian) Alps. These spurs are located in the historical Slovenian region of Krajna, as well as in the Italian region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia.
BLUE BOWLS AMONG GREEN SLOPES
Among the most significant natural attractions of Slovenia are lakes of glacial origin.
Slovenia is a small country, its area is 20,253 km2, until June 25, 1991 it was part of Yugoslavia, and since that historical moment it has been an independent state. In terms of geography, Slovenia belongs to the northwestern part of the Balkan Peninsula and the Alpine-Danube region of Central Europe. The spurs of the Eastern Alps, other uplands (highlands) occupy approximately 42% of the country's territory. And although in terms of economic indicators Slovenia stands on the positions of an industrialized country, its industry functions in such a way that, on the whole, it does not infringe on the reserved natural beauties of this land, environmental problems, of course, exist, but they are able to solve them here. First of all, because respect for the native nature in the country is an axiom that no one has ever disputed, neither in the past nor in the present. Not the last role is played by the practical fact that the virgin natural environment is also an important profitable segment of the Slovenian economy due to the actively developed since the 19th century. good resort and tourist infrastructure, primarily around its famous lakes of glacial origin. The largest of them - Bohinj and Bled - are filled with crystal clear water, framed by rocky and wooded slopes, surrounded by waterfalls, gorges, small towns with a rich historical past, castles, villas, ski resorts and are connected to each other and other parts of the country by highways.
Bohinj, Bled and the Triglav Lakes belong to the territory of the Triglav National Park, named after the highest peak of the same name in Slovenia with a height of 2864 m. Lake Cerknica is also known for its beauty. The main characteristic of the latter is “inconstancy”: the Church, which has a flat karst bottom, then disappears, reappears, which is evidence of an uninterrupted process of hydrocirculation between underground sources and aquifers present in limestone and dolomite soil layers. The well-known lakes of Slovenia also include Lake Dikoe, the depth of which remains unknown, and again due to the natural genesis of the processes occurring in its karst bowl. The number of smaller lakes, with an area of several hundred, and sometimes only a few tens of square meters, cannot be accurately calculated. They also tend to appear and disappear. Geologists have an explanation for this phenomenon. The very term "karst", used throughout the world to refer to the processes occurring in limestone, comes from the name of the Kras plateau (in other languages \u200b\u200bKarst) in Slovenia, it also enters northeastern Italy (sometimes it is also referred to and). On this plateau, as well as almost everywhere in Slovenia where there are lakes, carbonate rocks of the Pleistocene period predominate, easily eroded by water, and surface runoff is almost absent. Karst formations above water are known to be eroded by winds. This is how natural wells, funnels, caves are formed, through which lake water rushes into the bottomless depths of the earth. But then the reverse process occurs, the water is pushed out by young karst formations to the surface of the earth, and lakes appear, as a rule, in the same place where they were before, here the main role is played by the strength and fullness of underground watercourses.
When in Slovenia it comes to the lakes of Bohinj, Bled, Triglav, it is always emphasized that they are “permanent”. No wonder: their bottom is strengthened by rocky rocks. In the waters of Bohinj there is a rare lake trout. In all lakes - perch, roach, pike, tench, madder, carp, pike perch and many other species and subspecies of the European lake fauna.
HARMONIOUS PERMANENCE
The concept of "permanence" regarding lakes Bohinj and Bled can be safely expanded. Calmness, regularity, unhurriedness reign here: on the water surface, on hilly and rocky shores, and even in a resort atmosphere both in summer and winter.
Lake Bohinj is the largest lake in Slovenia. Its name comes, according to the legend of these places, no less than the word "boh", that is, God. And this is the story of the legend. When God distributed all the lands to people, he remembered that he had forgotten about these places, and all because very modest people lived here, they did not ask for anything for themselves. And then God gave them a beautiful lake and a beautiful land around, so that they could live and rejoice. The resort on the shores of Lake Bohinj is family-oriented, and in its vicinity you can also go fishing, water sports, rock climbing, paragliding, mountaineering, trekking along hiking trails. In winter, near it in cottages, campsites, hostels in 24 villages of the Upper Bohinj and Lower Bohinj valleys, and mainly in the town of Bohinjska Bystrica, ski lovers settle down, skiing on the mountains Kobla (1498 m) and Vogel (1922) closest to Lake Bohinj m). When the lake freezes, skaters and figure skaters train on its ice.
Lake Bled is considered the most beautiful lake in the country. In addition to the lake itself, this popular title is supported by the Bled Castle, standing on a 130-meter cliff, and the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin of the 16th century. on Bled Island, in the widest part of the lake. Archaeological excavations are being carried out on the island at the Slavic temple of the 9th-11th centuries. The architecture of the castle is ascetic, but its history casts a reflection on the history of all Slovenia. The first mention of the castle dates back to 1004, it was known by the German name Feldes, when the Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire of the German Nation, Henry II the Holy, granted it to the Bishop of Brixen. In 1278 Krajna (the historical region that now occupies the largest part of Slovenia) passed to Emperor Rudolf I of Habsburg, who chose the castle as his residence. The Habsburgs owned it until the division of Austria in 1918, except for 1809-1816, when it belonged to . After 1918 - Yugoslavia, was the summer residence of the princes Karageorgievich, then - other top officials of the state. The castle was rebuilt several times, but one of its towers definitely dates back to the 11th century. Now the castle houses a historical museum, a restaurant, and an observation deck is equipped on the roof, which offers impressive views of the Alps. The lake often hosts major international rowing competitions. The town of Bled, surrounding it, is a balneological, and in winter - a ski resort. Its resort history dates back to 1856. In winter, the lake freezes.
How many Triglav lakes exactly - no one will say, the smallest of them periodically disappear or dry up - in the summer. Seven of the Triglav lakes are called the main ones. This is Lake Pod Vrsac, located at an altitude of 1993 m above sea level. m., it is covered with a crust of ice even in summer; lakes Brown, Green, Mochivets, V Ledvitsy, it is also Big (the latter is really the largest among the Triglav lakes and is located at an altitude of 1830 m above sea level, its length is 300 m, width - 120 m, depth - up to 15 m) . The double lake has a turquoise color, the seventh in this "magnificent seven" is called Black - its shores are covered with a dense and dark coniferous forest, this lake has the warmest water. The lakes, as it were, complement each other, telling and demonstrating to an attentive eye what the lakes of the Julian Alps are in principle. The water from the lake near Vrsac flows into the Soča River, which flows into the Adriatic Sea, the rest of the Triglav Lakes are connected by threads of a single natural hydraulic system with small waterfalls, their waters are taken by the Savva-Bohinjska River, which merges with the Savva-Dolinka into the Sava, which - tributary of the Danube, which flows into the Black Sea.
ATTRACTION
- Bled Castle.
- Church of the Assumption of the Virgin (XVI century) on Bled Island.
- Church of St. Martin (Neo-Gothic, 1905) in Bled.
- Waterfall Slap-Savica (78 m) near Lake Bohinj.
- Villa Bled is the former summer residence of I. BrozTito.
- Ski resorts Kranjska Gora, Vogel, Kobla, Sorishka Planina.
- Triglav National Park.
The capital and largest city of the country is Ljubljana (10 km from Lake Bohinj and 45 km from Lake Bled):
- Old city.
- Ljubljana Castle (castle built in the 9th-11th centuries, rebuilt in the 17th century, St. George Chapel (Gothic, 15th century).
- Monastery and Church of the Annunciation (baroque, 1660).
- City Hall (Baroque, 1718).
- Dragon Bridge (Viennese Secession, 1901).
- Three-part bridge (Trimosto-vie) - 1931
- Ppreshern Square.
- Fountain of the Three Rivers.
- National Museum of Slovenia.
- National Museum of Modern History.
- Architectural Museum in Fužine Castle.
- City planting Richard Jakopic.
- City of Jesenice (10 km from Lake Bled):
- Museum of the History of Steel.
- The old mansions "Ruard" and "Kos".
INTERESTING FACTS
In total, 93 species of fish are found in the lakes of Slovenia and the rivers flowing into them, 33 of them are under state protection. The safety of these species is monitored by local fishing clubs. Their main principle: "caught - let go." This is what club members do, they recommend the same to tourists, and when it comes to rare species, local anglers demand it persistently and strictly. It is not customary to refuse them in Slovenia.
Several beautiful local legends are associated with the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin on Lake Bled. According to the most famous of them, if you hit her "bell of desires", all of them will certainly come true. Is it necessary to say that the bell ringing over the lake practically does not stop? And it was named so in connection with the story of a widow, whose wife, the owner of Bled Castle, was killed by robbers, and it is very likely that this story is true. In memory of her husband, the widow ordered a bell for the church. When he was transported to the island, a storm broke out. The raft capsized and the bell sank. Shocked by this incident, the woman took a monastic vow in one of the Roman monasteries. The Pope, who learned about this, ordered to cast in Padua in 1534 exactly the same new bell for this church. So he became a symbol of the fulfillment of desires. They say that when the lake is stormy, from the bottom of it comes the ringing of a drowned bell...
99 stone steps lead from the island pier to the church, and if the groom carries the bride in his arms along them, the marriage will be strong and happy. So Slovenian guys, before getting married, must acquire strong muscles. They agree.
The poet Frantze Prešeren (1800-1849), a classic of Slovenian literature, has an epic poem called Baptism on Savica, which tells of the forced baptism of pagan Slavs. The action of the poem takes place on the lakes of Bohinj and Bled.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Reservoirs of glacial origin in Slovenia, in the Eastern Alps. Region: Gorenjska (Lakes Bohinj and Bled).
The capital and largest city of the country - Ljubljana - 258,873 people. (2014). The ethnic composition of the population of Slovenia: Slovenes - 83%, as well as Serbs, Croats, Bosnians, Hungarians, Albanians, Italians, Montenegrins and others.
Slovenian languages (official): Slovenian, Hungarian, Italian (the last two - in areas adjacent to the borders with Hungary and Italy). Religions of Slovenia: Catholicism - 57.8%, Orthodoxy - 2.3%, Islam - 2.4%, Protestantism of various confessions - 0.8%, other confessions - about 5%, atheists - about 30%. Monetary unit: euro. The largest glacial lakes in Slovenia: Bohinj, Bled, the seven Triglav lakes. Major airport: Jože Pučnik in Ljubljana (international).
NUMBERS
Lake Bohinj:
Altitude above sea level: 525 m.
Area: 3.3 km2.
Catchment area: 107 km2.
Maximum depth: 45 m.
Length: 4.5 km.
Maximum width: 1.2 km.
Lake Bled:
Altitude above sea level: 475 m.
Area: 1.45 km2.
Maximum depth: 36 m.
Maximum length: 2.1 km.
Maximum width: 1.4 km.
CLIMATE
Moderate continental.
Average temperature in January: from -4 to -6°С.
Average July temperature: +22°С.
Average annual precipitation: about 1000 mm, in the mountains up to 2000 mm.
The water temperature in the lake. Bohinj in summer (maximum - in July and August): + 24 ° С, in the lake. Bled - + 26 ° С.
Lake Bled and Bohinj - mountain lakes of Slovenia on the map
