One of the things I'll remember most from Slovenia was the nature. In this small country of just 2 million people, you can find both the Alps and Balkan mountains, as well as numerous rivers, valleys, and the Adriatic coast. All that, while nearly 70 percent of the country remains covered by forest. However, the natural features that stuck out most to me were the lakes. I visited two, Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj, and if I can have your attention for just a few minutes, I'll tell why you should immeadiately leave your desk, throw your chair through the window, and break out of work so you can see them too.

LAKE BLED

Of the two, Lake Bled is much more well known. Located just an hour from the capital Ljubljana by bus, it is very easy to access. And once I got there, it became instantly clear why is was considered such a must see destination. First of all, the whole lake is surrounded by forrest and trails, while in the background the Julian Alps loom on the horizon. In the middle of it sits an Island with a centuries old church. Overlooking the waters on a hill stands a medieval stone castle. Both sites can be reached, as you can take a (costly) boats ride to the island and a (free) trail to the castle. Naturally, I only went to the castle.

The only downside to Bled is the fact that it is kind of touristy. When I was there, I was unfortunately joined by several bus loads of the affore mentioned groups, all equipped with fanny packs, cameras, cargo shorts, and loud voices. Worst of all though, there is a big eyesore of a hotel right on the shores, which to me seems like a big middle finger to mother nature. However, if you walk around to the other side of the lake, the crowds and hordes dissapate, leaving you surrounded by spectacular nature.

LAKE BOHINJ

Just 30 more minutes by bus past Lake Bled is Slovenia's largest and more rugged and wild lake Bohinj. Of the two, this one was my favorite because it seemed much more untouched and undeveloped. Sure, there were a couple of small shops and cafes near the bus stop, but that was it. No hotels or anything like that. And just like Bled, the Julian Alps cover the horizon.

On the opposite side of the lake from the bus station, there are several small cottages near the shore. I actually learned this the hard was since just about when I was half way around the lake, a huge thunderstorm broke out and I had to seek shelter under the overhang of an elderly couple's house. That said, they were nice and did not have a problem giving shelter to a grimy, hairy stranger. In total the lake took about 2 and a half hours to walk all the way around.

Pictures!

Lake Bled

Lake Bohinj

AND A LIZARD (Bohinj)