The Matterhorn is a famous peak representing Switzerland and a subject that photography enthusiasts worldwide dream of capturing. Many tourists visit Zermatt throughout the year to catch a glimpse of its majestic form. However, famous viewpoints are always crowded with people, making it difficult to capture that ideal shot. This time, we’ll introduce a hidden gem that solves this problem: “Rotenboden.”
Current Situation at Popular Viewpoints
Gornergrat Station
Famous Matterhorn photography spots include Gornergrat, Sunnegga, and Glacier Paradise. While all offer magnificent observation decks, they also attract concentrated crowds of tourists.
The situation becomes even more serious during winter. Surrounded by slopes bustling with skiers and snowboarders, observation decks are constantly overflowing with people. It’s difficult to secure space for a tripod, and taking photos without people in them is extremely challenging. Experiencing the mystical atmosphere of the Matterhorn, known as a solitary peak, has quite a high barrier.
The Hidden Scenic Spot “Rotenboden”
Rotenboden Station, an intermediate station on the Gornergrat Railway
Among these circumstances, Rotenboden Station is quietly gaining attention among photography enthusiasts. This station, established as an intermediate stop on the Gornergrat Railway, is actually an excellent photography spot.
Rotenboden is a small station located before the final stop of the Gornergrat Railway. The important point is that with a round-trip ticket for the Gornergrat Railway, you can disembark here without additional fees. However, few tourists know this fact, and most people go directly to the final destination at Gornergrat and return straight to Zermatt.
As a result, the area around Rotenboden Station is always quiet. While tourists at popular spots struggle with crowds, here you can enjoy photography in luxurious silence.
Photography Points and Examples
It’s a bit scary, but try climbing the large rocky area right after exiting the station
Dynamic Shots from the Rocky Area
Right after getting off the station, there’s a small rocky area. Since it’s not particularly steep, you can climb safely with a little caution. The view from here is spectacular, allowing you to take dynamic composition photos with the magnificent Matterhorn as a backdrop.
Since it was sunset time, it’s backlit, but I was able to take a dynamic photo
The composition of a person standing on the rocks with the Matterhorn towering behind is a popular combination on social media. Taking advantage of the lack of crowds, you can pursue as many ideal shots as you want.
Summer Only! Inverted Matterhorn
In summer, a small lake appears near the station. On windless early mornings, the Matterhorn reflects in the lake surface, allowing you to photograph the beautiful inverted Matterhorn. The lake that’s invisible in winter due to snow coverage appears as a mystical subject in summer.
Precautions and Preparation
Rotenboden Station is located at an altitude of over 3,000 meters. Therefore, temperatures are low even in midsummer, and it’s characteristically windy. Warm clothing is essential, and if possible, we recommend bringing spare warm clothes. Also, due to the high altitude, there’s naturally a significant risk of altitude sickness. Get plenty of sleep the night before your planned visit, and don’t forget regular hydration on the day itself.
Additionally, the station has no shops or restaurants. If you’re planning long photography sessions, be sure to bring sufficient water and food. High-altitude activities consume more energy than expected, so having light snacks prepared will provide peace of mind.
At night, there’s not a soul at Rotenboden. Be sure to check train schedules.
The most important precaution is checking train timetables. Rotenboden Station is unmanned, and missing the last train could mean spending a night in extreme cold. This poses life-threatening dangers. Be sure to note the timetable and board the final train with plenty of time to spare.
Also, sudden weather changes are not uncommon. When bad weather is expected, we recommend ending photography sessions early.
Photography Equipment
Since there are few people and tripod use is possible, actively utilize them if you have them. They’re especially essential items when photographing starry skies. Also, we recommend bringing lenses from wide-angle to telephoto if possible. You’ll have chances to capture various expressions of the Matterhorn.
Using drones enables aerial photography from above.
It’s also possible to bring drones, but advance registration with Switzerland’s aviation authority is required. If you want to conduct aerial photography using drones, complete the registration procedures by referring to the article below.
Summary
Rotenboden can be called a hidden famous spot for Matterhorn photography. For those who want to avoid crowds and immerse themselves thoroughly in photography, it’s truly an ideal location. However, since this involves high-altitude photography, sufficient attention to safety is necessary.
After properly preparing the basics like cold weather protection, securing water and food, and checking timetables, please enjoy photography at this special location. You’ll surely obtain wonderful Matterhorn photographs that can’t be taken anywhere else.
