Postcard perfect little Jezero Jasna is a bit of a hidden gem but it’s “hiding” right there in plain sight! (Jezero means lake in Slovenian) Crystal clear water produces a mirror like surface that reflects the surrounding mountains. Jezero Jasna Lake is located at the foot of the Julian Alps, near Kranjska Gora, a small village in Slovenia.
Lake Jasna is actually two small interconnected artificial lakes that cover approximately 5 acres. Jasna is so beautiful that it’s hard to believe that it’s an artificial lake! It’s quite the work of art! Bravo Slovenia, bravo!
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Don’t miss Jezero Jasna Lake!
We spent several days in the Triglav National Park and Bled areas. We had just completed the Vršič Pass scenic drive and were headed for Lake Bled when the most stunning emerald green lake came into view. We had a cram packed Slovenian itinerary and Jasna Lake didn’t make the cut. BOY was that a mistake! Needless to say, I immediately parked the car and made a B line for this breathtaking lake.
If you are visiting this area don’t miss Jezero Jasna Lake! Here’s everything you need to know!
Top things to do at Jezero Jasna Lake
walking path around the small lake
Hike or bike the relatively flat path that circles Jasna Lake, which takes approximately 30-45 minutes to walk. If you’re on a walking holiday be sure to stop here! Wooden bridges and boardwalks can be found around the lake.
climb the observation deck
There’s a new three-tiered wooden diving platform, resembling a castle turret. Climb up the tower for the best views of Jasna Lake.
Kozorog (capricorn) Zlatorog – Le Chamois Blanc Bronze statue
One of the most recognized scenes of Lake Jasna is the bronze statue of an Ibex on a natural rock. The statue was created between 1986 and 1988 by the sculptor Stojan Batič. An ibex or Chamois is an Alpine chamois is a species of goat-antelope native to mountains in Europe. You’ll see images of these creatures quite often in these mountainous areas of Slovenia. (and sometimes Zlatorog the mythical version, literal translation, Golden Horn)
relax at Lake Jasna
Take a break! Stop and sit and take in the wonderful views of the Julian Alps that surround the lake. Bring a book read and just relax for a time, let the cares of the world melt away. Forgot to bring a book, NO PROBLEM! look for the little library box where you can borrow one!
summer activities
Jezero Jasna comes alive in the warmer months! There are many family activities, here are a few:
- Swimming: yes, you are permitted to swim BUT Jasna is an Alpine Lake and Alpine lakes tend to be COLD! If it’s a bit too cold for your liking, you can still cool yourself on a hot day but dipping your toes in the water!
- Cold treats at the ice cream parlour: Grab an ice cream or cold drink at one of the kiosks to cool yourself on a warm summer day.
- Sunbathing: Sunbathing is a popular thing to do in summer for those who are looking to work on their summer tan.
- Find a shady spot: Cool off under one of the many shaded areas among the trees surrounding the lake.
- Snorkeling: Bring your snorkeling equipment and watch the fish swim in the crystal-clear waters!
- Stand up Paddle Boards (SUP): You may be able to rent SUP boards across the lake at the Kasabrin Jezero Jasna cafe.
fly fishing
Fly fishing is the only type of fishing permitted at Jezero Lake Jasna and the Sava Dolinka River where you can find brown trout, rainbow trout and goldfish. You are permitted to take home a maximum of 3 fish. (The upper part of the Sava Dolinka, (the source of the Sava Dolinka River) running along the main road from Podkoren to Mojstrana. The water is extremely clear, the width of the gravel stream is about 4 m.) FISHING LICENSE REQUIRED. You can get further details and obtain a permit here.
playground
Next to the lake, in addition to the apartments, there is also a playground.
morning yoga on Jezero Jasna Lake
Wake up to the sounds of nature and boost your mental and spiritual awareness in this alpine paradise. Every Wednesday and Saturday at 7.30 am they offer yoga and meditation at the lake. Starting the end of June. Get details on the Kranjska-Gora website.
nighttime
The restaurant located on the lake is magically lit at night. Stop and take in the tranquil setting as you enjoy the lights glittering off of the water.
important details
Toilets / bathrooms
Public toilets can be found around the lake.
pets
Yes, well behaved pets are welcome.
when to visit
Avoiding crowds
As you might guess this lake can get a little crowded in Summer.
The general rules of thumb for avoiding crowds at popular destinations apply:
- Visit early morning or late in the day
- Weekdays are often less crowded than weekends.
- Travel in the shoulder or off season: Summer months are peak season / high season, spring and fall are considered shoulder seasons, and winter months are off season.
Weather:
Source: NOAA (for approximation purposes only)
Winter Wonderland: Winter is a magical time at the lake. The photo opportunities of the lake blanketed in snow make it worth visiting. Restaurants are serving up hot drinks and don’t miss the igloos!)
Raining on your parade?
Don’t let it stop you! Gear up, grab an umbrella and go dance in the rain! If you’re lucky, you’ll be treated to a heavy yet atmospheric mist over the lake! (safety first! DON’T dance in the rain when there is lightening!)
webcam and video
Get a glimpse of the lake in this Youtube video!
webcam
Can’t make it to Jasna Lake just yet? Check out the Lake Jasna webcam!
Getting to Lake Jezero Jasna
closest airport:
Ljubljana International Airport: Lake Jasna from Ljubljana (70 km)
(The resort on Lake Jasna offers shuttle service from the airport.)
distance from:
- Ljubljana 87 km
- Bled 40 km
- Lake Bohinj 70 km (with a Goldenhorn/ Statue of Zlatorog of it’s own!)
- Villach Austria 25 km (just a 30 minute drive)
location
address: 4280 Kranjska Gora, Slovenia
GPS coordinates: 46.47441812359772, 13.783800398043509
parking
free parking: (the best spots are at no extra cost!)
I parked along the highway that passes the lake for free where there are generously sized pull off spots. There may be a time limit so check for signs before you leave your car, otherwise there is paid parking at the following location:
paid parking at Parkirišče Jasna (parking lot)
address: Naselje Ivana Krivca 1, 4280 Kranjska Gora, Slovenia
prices starting at 1,5 euros for the first hour. Every next hour 2,5 euros.)
Must pay with either a (contactless) credit card or Easy Park parking app. (pay with credit card) The parking lot / car park is unattended.
Camping: RV camping is possible in this parking area with access to water, electricity and sanitary facilities with hot water. 24 euro per day
public Transportation:
Train: The nearest train station is in Jesenice. There are also railway stations in Tarvisio in Italy and in Villach in Austria. You can then take a taxi to Jasna or a bus to Kranjska Gora.
Bus: The bus stop in centre of Kranjska Gora is just down the street from the Mercator grocery store and is a 2 km walk to the lake.
Use the Rome2Rio app and website to seamlessly plan your route via public transportation.
where to stay
If you’re looking for food and accommodation you won’t have to go far. There are some choices right on the lake! (prices based on double occupancy)
stay right on the lake!
Jasna Chalet Resort and Apartments
Each unit comes with a fully equipped kitchen with a fridge, oven, dishwasher and dining table, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. Paid airport shuttle from Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport) Guest rating: 9.2 prices: starting at $310 per night
check rates and book now on Booking.com!
Looking for something different? Here are some other stand out accommodations.
Within Walking Distance:
Hotel Kotnik
A cute fanciful building with an immaculate interior, you can’t go wrong with this one! Guest rating: 9.1 prices: starting at $130 per night distance from Lake Jasna: 1.6 km
check rates and book it now on booking.com!
Hotel Pino Alpino
Located next to the small church in Kranjska Gora, this is a real cozy option in a quiet area, with a restaurant with tasty food options! ask for a room with mountain views! guest rating: 9.2 prices: starting at $136 per night distance from the lake: 1.5 km
check rates and book it now on booking.com!
something out of the way but VERY Special
On the south side of Triglav National Park, near Most na Soči is a very special rustic farmhouse B&B. It’s 97 km from Jasna Lake but if you plan to explore that area it is well worth the drive. You can read all about Klavze 28 here or if you prefer, just book it now!
If you have a car
Triangel Boutique Hotel
This beautiful little chalet has a mountain backdrop, spa services and 5 star dining options! Guest rating: 9.6 prices: starting at $186 per night distance from Lake Jasna: 6 km
check rates and book now on booking.com!
Where to eat (Lake Jasna Restaurant options)
Eat right on the lake! There are a couple of locations located right on Lake Jasna.
Alpine beach at Jasna Lake
Grab a seat right on the water or cozy up to the fireplace in the evening!
Alpine Bubbles winter restaurant
Eat at one of the transparent igloo bubbles where you can keep warm in winter but still enjoy the views!
Kasabrin Jezero Jasna (cafe)
on the far side of the lake, serves a variety of drinks and ice cream.
Other things to do nearby
The Hydroelectric plant
along the Pišnica River has a small waterfall that flows into a blue pool of water. Distance from free roadside parking: approx 450 meters
Suspension Bridge
Viseči most oziroma brv nad sotesko Pišnice ob osamelcu Baba pri jezeru Jasna v Kranjski gori. This suspension bridge has a two tiered waterfall. Distance from free roadside parking: approx. 400 meters
Scenic Gorges
There are two ridiculously scenic gorges in the area:
- Vintgar Gorge (35 km)
- Tolmin Gorge (88 km, on the other side of the park)
ski resort
The Vogel Ski Resort is a popular spot for winter sport enthusiasts, (70 km from Jasna)
Triglav National Park
Triglav National Park, Slovenia’s only National Park, boasts incredible views of the high mountain peaks of the Julian Alps. The park circles Mount Triglav, Slovenia’s highest mountain, and the highest peak in the Slovenian Alps. The park is a popular tourist destination that provides mountain views with breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and mountains, plenty of outdoor activities, and perfect tourist photo opportunities.
Fun fact: It is said that to be a true Slovenian, you have to climb Mount Triglav at least once in your life. It is recommended that you are physically in good condition and hire a professional guide for this activity!
Vršič Pass
Lake Jasna is basically the entry point to the park, and as you enter you’ll soon find yourself at the starting point of one of the best things about the whole park, the crazy mountain pass known as Vrsic Pass. This mountain road has 50!!! Hairpin turns, each one more thrilling than the next! It’s one of the perfect places for a wild and crazy road trip!
The first stop is the Russian Chapel (Ruska kapelica) a great place to get out and stretch your legs. The chapel was built a long time ago by Russian war prisoners during World War I. (source: Wikipedia) In my opinion one of the best places to stop on the entire drive is hairpin #25 when you reach the very top! See a great view along the way? No problem, there are plenty of places to park along the route!
How much time does the Vrsic Pass take? From Lake Jasna, just south of the town of Kranjska Gora and ends at the mountain village of Trenta. (We stopped in the alpine village for a bite to eat.) It’s about an hour drive to complete the pass. (Double that if you plan to come back the same way) However, be sure to give yourself enough time to fully explore beautiful places in this gorgeous park. Give yourself a bit of time for some of the best things in the park in your free time which include:
- Pericnik waterfall: with its 52m drop it’s one of Slovenia’s highest waterfalls.
- The Soča River: a milky shade of stunning blue, it may just be the prettiest thing you’ll see!
- Ajdovska Deklica (the Heathen Maiden) is a popular legend in this traditional region of Slovenia. Her face stands out in the rock face of one of the mountains. The best viewpoint is just beside the Poštarski dom mountain hut that is the last cottage on the Vršič.
The best time to visit Triglav National Park
The best time to visit is in summer when there is good weather and better access to fun activities like hiking, rating, and kayaking. Winter is possibly the most picturesque time in the park and the surrounding area, however a lot of snow makes for treacherous driving and sometimes closed mountain passes.
Is Jezero Lake Jasna worth it / worth seeing? and why you shouldn’t miss it!
In my opinion yes! overall score 10/10! Jezero Jasna lake is a must see with its crystal clear emerald green water and surrounding mountain landscape! I dare you to drive by without stopping. I have heard more than one person say that they thought Jasna was more beautiful than even lake Bled, and that’s saying A LOT! PLUS there are lots of things to see and do at this beautiful lake and THAT is why you don’t want to miss it!
Protect your investment with travel insurance
Traveling to Slovenia? Protect your investment with “cancel for any reason” trip insurance. Did you know that pandemics, as well as a LONG list of other situations aren’t covered by most trip insurance policies (including those airlines offer when purchasing tickets)? MOST of these scenarios are covered when you purchase a “cancel for any reason” policy! Shop for one at Travel Insurance.com! It’s where I shop for travel insurance. BUT don’t delay, most CFAR policies need to be purchased within 14-21 days, depending on the policy. (regular policies can be purchased often up to the day of travel) Find more money saving resources on my “Travel Resources” page!
Slovenia Itineraries
2 week road trip to Austria, southern Germany, and Slovenia
Slovenia Itinerary 5 days (Bled, Bohinj, Julian Alps/Triglav National Park, Soca River, Predjama Castle, show caves, more!)
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**thank you Rocky Harding for allowing me to use some of your photos in this article!
