After buffet breakfast at Hotel Krim sorted out some finances then headed off down to the lake (only about 100m) and continued walking along the edge of the lake and up the hill to Bled Castle. It was just as picturesque if not more so this morning - the water a clear vibrant green, the lily pads, ducks, swans, rowers and of the course the wooden elongated row boats that take you across to the island. Just magnificent! Would have to be one of the most spectacular places I have ever seen! The walk up was fairly strenuous with plenty of stairs but much more pleasant at this time of day than later due to the heat. Regardless, the view from the top was more than worth every step. The resident monk advised that unfortunately the wine cellar wasn't open but did have time for a quick romp through the museum. The descent was much quicker and easier and we thoroughly enjoyed refreshments at a lovely lakeside cafe - much activity to watch as well as soaking in that awesome view.
Then took the boat ride, about a dozen people in total with a single standing oarsman - across the lake to the island. The island with the world renowned and much photographed church and steeple! Had about half and hour to wander around and try and absorb the magnitude of just how picturesque it all was! Watching people swim and the various craft as well as check out the little island itself before our boat made the return journey. Well worth the 12EUR each!
Had some salad for lunch back in town area before collecting car from hotel and driving a circuit of the lake. Slightly off beaten track found Bohinjska Bela, amazingly quaint little village with narrow winding streets. Incredible! The drive around lake was quite spectacular - with the populace enjoying their summer vacation.
Starting heading south on motorway through Postojna (town with caves though not enough time to visit) - then continued southbound on a regular highway. Was brilliant to meander through small local villages - but much more interesting and scenic. Once again each town with its distinctive church steeple and an array of "chalet" like dwellings - Eastern European style!
Surprisingly the border crossing back into Croatia was only about 20kms from the coast and it wasn't long before the ocean was well and truly in view.
Drove directly to our overnight accommodation at Icici - on the edge of Opatija. Pansion Salyna was located up a winding narrow road with a fabulous outlook down to the port area and beach. Our room was very small though thankfully air conditioned, and the owner, Saly, an ageing retired sea captain was such a character certainly made up for any shortcomings. Enjoyed his interesting stories and he loved showing us through his beautiful penthouse apartment ready and waiting for 10 Italian girls to arrive. Saly's lovely daughter assisted me with some washing, allowed Adam to quickly use her phone and they both recommended a local restaurant for dinner.
We wandered down a nearby stairway to the beach - enjoyed my first swim in the Adriatic! Interesting to people watch the locals and European holiday makers - laying on their beach mats on the concrete, literally cooking in that scorching heat. The water temperature was really pleasant and refreshing though Adam had scared me with stories of sea urchins and their dangerous spikes!
By then of course it was beer o'clock - so a "pivo" by the water was rather pleasant.
We climbed back up to "Salyna" - showered and changed then strolled back down to Lucica Icici the local restaurant at the port that was recommended. Amazing atmosphere, obviously frequented by an abundance of locals and food was fabulous - grilled fish, grilled calamari, cevapicici & salad. All yum! The local wine wasn't too bad either!