WhatsApp iconWhatsApp icon
Historic black and white photo of Josephine Village in Bled during winter, with snow covering the street and trees, highlighting the village's classical architecture.Historic black and white photo of Josephine Village in Bled during winter, with snow covering the street and trees, highlighting the village's classical architecture.

Dive into the history of the villa

A Testament to Resilience

During and after World War II, the family lost ownership of the house due to political changes but continued to live there, caring for the property and hoping it would one day be returned to them. Their dream was partially realized in the late 1980s when the family regained partial ownership. By the end of 1990s, the entire villa was back in Hočevar hands, bringing a sense of closure to a turbulent chapter in its history.

Historic photo of the facade of Villa Josephine, highlighting the original architecture of the village in Bled, with trees around and a sunny climate.Historic photo of the facade of Villa Josephine, highlighting the original architecture of the village in Bled, with trees around and a sunny climate.

A Home Built on Hope and Healing

The building dates back to the golden era of Bled’s tourism. Originally built in 1918, it was both a family home and a workspace, housing a doctor’s clinic and a small pharmacy. Josephine’s husband, Gabriel, was a physician who tragically passed away shortly after serving as a military doctor in World War I. Left a widow with three children, Josephine expanded the villa in 1934, adding another oor and transforming it into a boutique hotel known as Pension Hočevar.

For 27 years, the villa thrived under Josephine’s care, oering 21 guest rooms, a reception area, a kitchen, and a dining space. She also ran a café in a wooden building beside the house, making the property a lively hub for visitors.

Historic image of Villa Josephine, showing the facade and well-kept garden, with benches along the path and the village in the background.Historic image of Villa Josephine, showing the facade and well-kept garden, with benches along the path and the village in the background.

Revival of a Legacy

Today, after repairs and structural renovation, the house has been brought back to life with a mixed purpose. It now serves as both a residential home and a guesthouse, oering visitors a unique authentic Bled experience.

Villa Josephine at night, softly lit, surrounded by gardens and trees, offering a charming view with the lighting from the windows.Villa Josephine at night, softly lit, surrounded by gardens and trees, offering a charming view with the lighting from the windows.

Your getaway awaits – reserve your spot now and embrace the heart of village life!