Insider tips for your summer
It’s coming. We promise. The warm rays of the sun will soon make your skin tingle again. Until then, let’s spend the time dreaming and planning about what we’ll do with all that daylight. After all, that’s half the fun. And, since we are virtually at the source of all the best and (still) unknown insider tips, what better place to spend our time? Because even if you think you already know every corner of your continent; if you think you already know what lies behind every peak in a range — we bet there are still a few beautiful places worth discovering that you haven’t heard of yet. And just in case you really do know every Alpine hut owner by their first name, we've also picked out some very unusual, far-flung adventures. We hope you enjoy browsing through our best summer tips.
Because even if you think you already know every corner of your continent; if you think you already know what lies behind every peak in a range — we bet there are still a few beautiful places worth discovering that you haven’t heard of yet.The freshest summer inspiration for you
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Taking great photos outside
To make your photos as beautiful as your memories are, here are a few simple tips on how to take beautiful photos during your rides.
The camera
The first thing you need for good photos is a camera that can take them. And while it helps, this doesn’t necessarily need to be the latest SLR or a set up with interchangeable lenses and wide angles. A simple zoom lens with a focal length between 24 and 70mm will also do the trick. In this sense, you may even be able to use your phone if you don't plan to make large-format prints or professionally edit your pictures afterwards. Just be aware that the quality of your camera has a direct impact on your images and consider whether your current one will meet your needs.
Take your time
Good photos are seldom the result of a snapshot. It’s better to take fewer photos (meaning fewer breaks) that are really good, than a bunch of photos you’ll only delete later. So, experiment a little to find the right shot, and consider whether your picture will still look good at home, long after the current feelings of elation subside.
The cut
All good photos fit the rule of thirds, a simple rule that leads to incredibly aesthetically pleasing pictures. To follow the rule, all you have to do is place the most important object in the picture (for example a human, a tree or a building) on the point where the ‘third’ lines intersect (see figure).
Lighting
The most important prerequisite for quality photos is beautiful light. So make sure that your motif is not in the shade, but illuminated by the sun. The time of day also plays an important role: The sun should not be too high; it should cast a shadow of yourself that’s ideally longer than you are tall. Particularly beautiful photos are taken in the golden and blue hours, directly after sunrise and before sunset.
Natural movement
If you or other people are in the picture, you will remember your adventure even better later. But only if it doesn't seem strangely unnatural and fake. So let the protagonists do something that they do all day anyway, such as hike or drive, look into the landscape or talk to each other.
Check out this article to find out more about how to improve your landscape photos.
Safety In The Mountains
Weather
Just like a hearty breakfast, checking the weather forecast is an important part of your daily mountain morning routine. At high altitudes, you may experience heat, rain, high winds and even snow — all in the same day. When packing, check the weather and take equipment for every possible outcome.
Dangers
Rough terrain, narrow and steep paths, falling rocks – all are risks when traversing the mountains and along the coast. Thorough preparation, suitable equipment and an honest evaluation of your own skills are key to staying safe. If you don’t have any experience in certain environments, it's best to bring someone who does.
Respect
Whether you are on a popular trail or off the beaten path, make sure to show respect toward other people and the environment. Beware of other people around – below steep slopes there are often other trails, so don't kick down any rocks. Always leave a place as you found it and show respect for your companions, people you meet and the environment.
Emergency Numbers
Research and keeo the phone number of the local mountain rescue on hand. Make sure you always have some battery left on your mobile device and be cognisant of where you are at all times so you can accurately communicate your location in case of an emergency.
- Call 999 and ask to be put through to mountain rescue in case of an emergency. Mountain rescue Germany: 112
- Mountain rescue Austria: 140
- Mountain rescue Italy: 118
Equipment Basics
No matter where your journey will take you, these are some basic supplies you should always have with you:
- Rain jacket
- Pocketknife
- Spork
- Headlamp
- First aid kit (incl. medicine & tweezers)
- Some duct tape
- Pen & Paper
- komoot app (of course!)