19/10/2026
Lonely Planet's article - 10 Best Destinations for Fall Foliage Around the World
Lake Bohinj, Slovenia
Best for road-trippers
Situated in Slovenia’s Triglav National Park within the gobsmacklingly beautiful Julian Alps, Lake Bohinj is a large glacial lake speckled with autumn foliage during the first few weeks of October. I love Lake Bohinj because it’s quieter and less crowded than neighboring Lake Bled, though it’s possible to visit both in one day. Early fall mornings on Lake Bohinj are quite special: calm foliage reflects in bright blue water, and strips of fog adorn the mountains. Appreciate the beauty in full with a flat trail walk around the lake, either in its entirety (6.8 miles) or just a section along the south or north shores.
Families with younger children can enjoy shorter nature walks, particularly Goldhorn’s Fairyland Trail, an interactive nature path.
Getting there: Fly into Ljubljana Airport (LJU), and drive about an hour northwest to Lake Bohinj.
Planning tip: Base yourself in serene Lake Bohinj, and visit Lake Bled early in the morning to minimize the crowds. The traditional wooden pletna boats to Bled Island and the Mother of God Church start at 8:30am in October, so it’s wise to be on one of the first.
Where to try it: Take a cable car up to the Vogel viewpoint for a panoramic vista. From here, there are many activities, such as mountain biking and hiking, including the trail to Zadnji Vogel, an alpine meadow. Another fabulous lookout is Vodnikov Lookout Point, or take the stair trek to Savica, a popular and beautiful waterfall. Carve out some time to do a scenic drive along Stara Fužina to the Vogar Viewpoint (a short walk from the parking area). The switchback-riddled route offers dazzling views into the canyon and driving past waterfalls until you reach the viewpoint overlooking Lake Bohinj. Hiking enthusiasts should embark on the 7-mile Mostnica Gorge Trail, which weaves into the lush Voja Valley, rewarding trekkers with a waterfall at the end.
More on the Lonely Planet's official website if you want to see a full list