The Bavarian Forest offers nature photographers an inexhaustible variety of motifs – from majestic mountain landscapes to rare wild animals in their natural habitat. After years of exploration, I have compiled the five most extraordinary photo spots that will inspire every nature photographer.
1. the Tierfreigelände – wildlife photography at the highest level
The two large animal enclosures in the Bavarian Forest National Park are real treasure troves for wildlife photographers. The most famous is located at the Lusen National Park Center near Neuschönau, the second at the Falkenstein National Park Center.
Photographic highlights:
- Brown bears in a near-natural enclosure with rocks and trees
- Lynx often with offspring – perfect for action shots
- Wolves in a pack, particularly impressive in the fog in the early hours of the morning
- Hawk owls and eagle owls in spacious aviaries
- Red deer, wild boar and wild horses in extensive forest enclosures
Photo tips:
- Best time: Early morning hours (6-9 am) and late afternoon or early evening hours
- The animals are more active in cooler weather
- Telephoto lens 300-600mm recommended for respectful distance
- Be patient – the enclosures are very large and the animals are often not visible for many hours.
2. the Lusen (1373m) – mystical mountain wilderness
The Lusen is not only the third highest mountain in the Bavarian Forest, but also one of the most photogenic. Its characteristic sea of granite blocks and the surrounding primeval forests create a mystical atmosphere.
Photographic highlights:
- Sea of granite blocks at the summit – surreal rock formations as if from another world
- Primeval forest landscapes with fallen giant trees and dense moss growth
- Panoramic views over the entire Bohemian Forest to the Alps (in clear weather)
- Sea of fog in the valleys, particularly spectacular in inversion weather conditions
Best photography times:
- Sunrise: Golden hour at the summit with dramatic shadows between the boulders
- Autumn: glowing beech forests on the slopes
- Winter: Mystical snowy landscapes and ice formations on the granite boulders
3. the Großer Arber (1456m) – King of the Bavarian Forest
As the highest mountain in the region, the Großer Arber offers incomparable panoramic views and a multitude of photographic opportunities at any time of year.
Photographic highlights:
- 360° panorama from the summit with views of the Bohemian Forest, Alps and Danube plain
- Arbermandl: In winter, the spruce trees on the summit are covered in fascinating ice structures
- Schachten – the characteristic mountain meadows with an old alpine farming tradition
- Arber mountain railroad for impressive aerial views
Photo recommendations:
- Großer Arbersee: Reflections in the early morning hours
- Kleiner Arbersee: More intimate perspectives with surrounding spruce forests
- Peaks at sunrise: sea of fog in the valleys with protruding mountain peaks
4. the capercaillie reserve around the Arber
The capercaillie sanctuary around the Großer Arber is a photographic gem for patient nature photographers. Some of the rarest forest birds in Central Europe live here.
Photographic features:
- Capercaillie – the imposing “king of the forests” is frequently found in suitable habitats
- Hazel grouse – extremely shy forest dweller, but not uncommon there
- Pygmy owl – Europe’s smallest owl species
- Three-toed woodpecker – specialized on dead wood
Important information for photographers:
- Observe quiet zones: Large parts are closed during the mating and breeding season (March-July) – leaving the paths is prohibited!
- Extreme caution is required – capercaillie are extremely sensitive to disturbance, especially in winter
- Camouflage and very long telephoto lenses (600mm+) required
- Early morning hours or bad weather days – activity time for most forest birds
5. the high fall – waterfalls in a wild gorge
The Hochfall near Bodenmais is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the Bavarian Forest and offers fascinating motifs for landscape and close-up photographers.
Photographic highlights:
- Cascading waterfalls over several steps at a total height of 95 meters
- Wild gorge landscape with mossy rocks and lush vegetation
- Ice formations in winter – bizarre icicles and frozen waterfalls
- Autumn colors – bright deciduous forests around the gorge
Camera settings and tips:
- Long exposures (1-4 seconds) for silky water
- Tripod absolutely necessary on the slippery rocks
- Polarizing filter reduces reflections on wet stones
- Gray filter for longer exposures even in daylight
- Rain protection for the camera – it’s often damp and foggy here
Best photo times:
- After rainfall: Maximum water flow
- Early morning: soft, diffuse light in the gorge
- Winter: Unique ice formations, but be careful on slippery paths
General recommendations for nature photography in the Bavarian Forest
Equipment:
- Telephoto lenses (300-600mm) for wildlife
- Wide angle (14-24mm) for landscapes
- Macro lens for details in flora and fauna
- Stable tripod – essential for long exposures
- Weather protection for camera and lenses
Ethics and nature conservation:
- Observe the rules of the road – follow the marked paths
- Respect quiet zones, especially during the breeding and setting season
- Maintain a minimum distance from wild animals
- Do not use lures or noises to attract them
- Leave No Trace – leave nothing behind but footprints
Planning and timing:
- Study the weather forecast – dramatic weather often makes the best pictures
- Use sunrise/sunset for golden light
- Consider the seasons – each has its own photographic highlights
- Local contacts – rangers and local photographers can provide valuable tips
The Bavarian Forest is a photographic paradise that rewards patience and respect for nature. With these five extraordinary photo spots, you have the basis for unforgettable nature shots in one of the most pristine forest areas in Central Europe.
