Today we set out from Kobarid to tackle the Vrsica Pass enroute to Lake Bled. The pass, also known as the Russian Road passes through some of the highest mountains in Slovenia. It is called the Russian Road because it was constructed by 10,000 Russian prisoners of war during WW1. Sadly, hundreds of the prisoners died during the construction of the road, including 300 who died in an avalanche. It is very steep, with a 15 percent grade in some areas. Before reaching the upward climb part of the road, we were driving along the beautiful Soca river. I couldn’t resist getting in the crystal clear water, but didn’t stay in too long because it was freezing cold!

On the way down the mountain, we stopped at a small restaurant and had the whole place to ourselves. The two ladies working were incredibly friendly. We had a local stew, which was a bit like goulash, and the best stroudel I’ve ever had. At the end, the owner brought out shots of some type of liquor that she said was a good digestive aid. It tasted to us like a pine tree.

After we completed the pass, it was only a short drive into Bled. We have a hostel here and are in a 12 person room (the smaller rooms are all full), which I’m not too crazy about. But everything is clean, the people are nice, and the room has air conditioning which is a huge bonus in this part of the world. We will be here tonight and tomorrow. After we checked in, we walked up the big hill to Bled Castle and caught some really nice views of the lake at sunset.

Tomorrow we have plans to do several hikes around the lake and take in the scenery in the daytime. Talk to you guys soon.