Discover photo spots whilst hiking in Alpe Rauz. Find out which viewpoints, lakes and alpine huts promise unforgettable photos. Read on!
The camera is charged, the hiking boots are laced up, and the morning light bathes the mountains in a warm golden-orange glow. Anyone who has ever hiked through Alpe Rauz knows that here, round every bend, there’s a scene waiting to make you press the shutter button. The area around St. Anton am Arlberg is one of the most scenically stunning corners of the Alps. Panoramic views of the peaks, tranquil mountain lakes, flowering meadows and rustic alpine huts turn every outing into a photographic experience. To help you make the most of it, we at Intersport Arlberg have put together a list of the most beautiful photo spots – plus practical tips on hiking kit, so you’re fully prepared before you set off.
Key points at a glance
- Alpe Rauz offers photo spots for every type of mountain photography, from summit panoramas to close-ups.
- You’ll find the best light early in the morning or just before sunset.
- Tranquil mountain lakes and flowering meadows make for particularly rewarding subjects, especially during the summer months.
- With the right kit and a bit of planning, you can take impressive shots even without a professional camera.
Photo spot 1: The panoramic view from the Valluga summit
At just under 2,810 metres, the Valluga is one of the highest vantage points in the Arlberg region, and the ascent is well worth it in every respect. Those using the gondola and ski lifts can reach the summit comfortably; hikers who choose the long route on foot are rewarded with an even more intense experience. Once at the top, a 360-degree view opens up across the Arlberg region, stretching deep into Vorarlberg and the Tyrolean Oberland. For photos, the early morning hours shortly after sunrise are recommended: the light is soft, the valleys are still in shadow and, occasionally, a sea of clouds hangs beneath the summit. Clear days following a sudden change in the weather offer particularly sharp views into the distance. A wide-angle lens captures the full breadth of the panorama.
Photo spot 2: Picturesque mountain lakes along the hiking trails
The region around Alpe Rauz is criss-crossed by small mountain paths, along which tranquil mountain lakes appear time and again. When there’s no wind, their surfaces reflect the peaks and the sky – a classic, yet never boring, subject. The early morning or late evening hours are particularly recommended, when the light falls at a low angle and casts warm hues upon the water. Take your time and wait for a quiet moment when the surroundings are clearly reflected in the lake. A tripod stabilises the camera during long exposure times and allows for soft reflections, lending the image an almost meditative atmosphere.
Photo spot 3: The flower meadows of Alpe Rauz in summer
From mid-June to the end of August, the meadows around Alpe Rauz are transformed into a dazzling sea of flowers. Gentian, arnica, alpine roses and countless other wildflowers bloom in dense carpets, which are ideal for close-ups. Get right up close: a macro mode or a suitable lens brings out details that the naked eye often misses. The mountains remain visible in the background, adding depth and context to the image.
These subjects are particularly well-suited to varied compositions:
- A low-angle shot with flowers in the foreground and mountain peaks in the background
- Close-ups of individual flowers backlit
- Wide-angle shots showing the expanse of the meadow
Photo spot 4: Historic alpine huts and traditional architecture
Along the hiking trails in Alpe Rauz, you’ll repeatedly come across old alpine huts whose weathered wood, moss-covered stone roofs and rustic windows tell stories. The soft light in the early morning or just before sunset casts long shadows and highlights textures particularly beautifully. It becomes particularly interesting when you frame the huts in relation to the landscape: a narrow footpath leading to a hut provides a natural leading line for the image. Wait for moments when people enter the frame; this adds scale and life to your shots of alpine huts.
Practical photography tips for great mountain photos
With a bit of preparation, you can get much more out of your mountain photos. The following basic rules will help, regardless of which camera you’re using:
- Make the most of the golden hour: shortly after sunrise and just before sunset, the light offers the warmest tones.
- Keep the horizon straight: Slanted horizons can quickly make even mountain photos look unsettling.
- Apply the rule of thirds: Position your subject in the top or bottom third of the frame rather than in the centre.
- Allow for changes in the weather: In the high mountains, the weather can change quickly, so pack rain protection for both your camera and yourself.
- Batteries and memory cards: Cold temperatures and long hikes drain batteries quickly, so always take a spare with you.
Conclusion
Alpe Rauz is a real gem for hikers with a passion for photography. From the summit views at Valluga to mirror-like mountain lakes, blooming meadows and rustic alpine huts – the region offers stunning subjects at any time of day. We at Intersport Arlberg look forward to seeing you explore this landscape, fully equipped, and bring back some unforgettable photos.