Bled joins the UN Best Tourism Villages global network: recognition for responsible and inclusive tourism

Bled, one of Slovenia’s most recognisable tourism icons, has joined the prestigious global network Best Tourism Villages by the World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism). This achievement reflects more than a decade of consistent work in advancing responsible tourism, innovation, and collaboration at every level. In this year’s initiative, 270 destinations from 65 countries applied, and Bled stood out as a place developing tourism in a responsible and inclusive way. Membership in the network is not only recognition of what has been achieved, but also a strategic direction for the future — towards balancing visitor flows and shaping a model that benefits both residents and visitors.

© UN Tourism

“Bled’s inclusion in the UN Best Tourism Villages network is an important acknowledgment of our long-term efforts and a clear signal that Bled belongs among destinations developing tourism with foresight and care. This recognition proves that it is possible to maintain a balance between visitor appeal and residents’ quality of life.

For many years, Bled has been building tourism based on respect for place, people, and heritage. From the Bled Local Selection to the Ask me, I’m local initiative, our projects show that the future of tourism lies in cooperation, creativity, and community involvement.

At the same time, the UN Best Tourism Villages initiative encourages the state to recognise the destination’s value and invest more in better infrastructure, environmental protection, and the creation of stable jobs.

We see this success as motivation to stay the course — tourism that does not seek only more visitors, but a better balance between nature, economy, and community. That is the direction we intend to pursue.”
— Blaž Veber, Director, Tourism Bled

© Jošt Gantar

“For the 2025 national selection, the Slovenian Tourist Board nominated eight destinations, including Bled, which then convinced the UN Tourism evaluation committee in the international process.
With this recognition, Bled joins the global Best Tourism Villages network, gaining access to expertise, promotional support, and the exchange of best practices.”
— Source: Ministry of Economy, Tourism and Sport

Projects that impressed the committee
Among the projects recognised by UN Tourism, the Bled Local Selection stands out — a collective brand of local products and services that connects local producers, artisans, and providers into a shared story of authenticity and quality. The system supports short supply chains, strengthens the area’s identity, and preserves traditional knowledge.

A key part of Bled’s strategy also involves investment in green infrastructure, electric mobility, cycling routes, and the renewal of public spaces — reducing traffic pressure and environmental impact on the lake ecosystem.

Another highlighted project is Ask me, I’m local, which empowers residents to become active ambassadors and genuine sources of local insight for visitors.

Through these initiatives, Bled demonstrates that tourism can grow responsibly — protecting nature and culture while ensuring a high quality of life for residents.

© Boris Pretnar

Working together for the future of tourism

Bled recognises that strong partnerships are essential to the destination’s long-term resilience. Cooperation helps preserve cultural identity, strengthen international visibility, and address shared challenges such as visitor management, funding, and workforce development. The Julian Alps provide a strong example of how municipal cooperation can create a more balanced and resilient region.

© Ciril Jazbec

A shared path forward

Bled will continue to engage actively with Slovenian and international partners within the UN Best Tourism Villages network. Knowledge exchange, joint problem-solving, and community participation remain central to its approach.
With openness to new ideas, projects, and partnerships, Bled is reinforcing its position as a leading destination in responsible tourism — one that benefits both people and place.

© Boris Pretnar

What is the UN Best Tourism Villages community?

The Best Tourism Villages initiative was launched in 2021 by the World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) as a global network linking destinations committed to preserving cultural and natural heritage while developing tourism with added social value. The network facilitates knowledge exchange, expert support, and global promotion of villages that demonstrate how tourism can genuinely enhance the well-being of local communities.