HIDDEN GUEST: Best Western Premier Hotel Lovec Bled

Bled is a Slovenian tourist icon and the most developed tourist destination in Slovenia. The Best Western Premier Hotel Lovec is located in the centre of Bled, just a few steps away from the shores of Lake Bled and the central park. It offers breath-taking views of the lake, the surrounding Julian Alps and Karavanke. The hotel was completely renovated in 2005 and in the process became a modern and attractive four-star hotel, while keeping its character of a charming hotel with a long tradition and history.

Bled is situated in the north-western part of Slovenia, at the foothills of the Julian Alps and easily accessible by road and rail, the train station is 4km away from the centre. From the state border with Austria (Wurzenpaß – Korensko sedlo) or Italy (Fusine Laghi – Rateče) to Bled is 47km. Coming from Ljubljana you can make the 50km by highway, which is the easiest access, or by taking the road past Medvode, Kranj, Naklo and Radovljica. The nearest international airport is Ljubljana – Jože Pučnik is just 36km away. A direct bus and private transportation between the airport and Bled are organised throughout the year.

The hotel carries on the tradition of a former inn that stood on the site more than a hundred year ago. The architecture of the hotel is so traditional that it blends seamlessly into the city fabric. The views from each room are particularly impressive and the rooms are airy and full of natural light. The hotel interior is dominated by natural materials, which gives it a touch of warmth and homeliness and the traditional touches, such as the special bed linen, can make you feel really good.

Hospitality is taken very seriously and interestingly at this hotel, so much so that we could say that the soul of the hotel is in the hotel staff, which is always ready to help. Our impression was that the staff strive to establish an individual approach and the flexibility, friendliness, and professionalism of all those involved in the organisation of events is to be praised. Aside from the exquisite restaurant, which serves contemporary cuisine and fine Slovenian wines, the hotel also offers a pastry shop with a summer garden terrace and a pleasant shade of centennial chestnuts, as well as a house pub.

The hotel has 52 exclusive rooms and 8 suites. Whilst the rooms are not amongst the largest in their category, they are in good shape and well maintained with solid attention to detail, offering adequate comfort for a pleasant stay, with the rooms overlooking the lake and the castle particularly recommended. The Panorama conference hall, located on the top floor of Hotel Lovec, boasts the best views of the lake and the island. Daylight, natural materials and wood flooring create a stimulating environment for successful business meetings and seminars. The hall can accommodate up to 140 people in theatre style, and on request may be divided into separate rooms. Additional conference facilities are available in the neighbouring sister hotel Kompas, managed by the same company.

DESSERT – The extras

Receptions and banquets for groups with a view in the Panorama Hall. The hall can accommodate up to 100 people.

FLOP – NEGATIVE SURPRISES

Perhaps the only real downside is the expensive parking, which can be somewhat expected for a hotel in the city centre.

TOP – POSITIVE SURPRISES

The Pub Lovec, which continues the tradition of the inn that once stood at this location. The wide range of local beers, wines, and schnapps is impressive and this is also a room where you will learn about craft beer brewed in Slovenia.

Architectural excesses, a curved futuristic facade, beautiful surroundings, proximity to the city, quality cuisine…these are just some of the extras offered by Klagenfurt’s leading business hotel. All this is enriched by high standard hotel services and the likeable and pleasant capital of the Austrian province of Carinthia. This hotel is the perfect choice for small conference groups, usually dominated by corporate clients.

FINAL GRADE: 4.45 BRONZE CITY MEETING HOTEL

GOLD final score from 4.81 to 5.00
SILVER final score from 4.61 to 4.80
BRONZE final score from 4.41 to 4.60