Austria Otto-Haus on the Rax mountain

A simple hike leads from the cable car station to the Otto-Haus. If you're planning to go, make sure to stop by the Rax Berggasthaus and try their Kaspressknödel soup – a true alpine specialty!
If fresh snow has fallen, I highly recommend using snowshoes. You can rent them at the Berggasthaus during their opening hours. However, it's best to check availability online in advance and, if needed, send them an email to confirm.

I captured this photo with a full-frame camera at 35mm. The focal length you choose depends entirely on your composition.
There are plenty of other beautiful subjects to photograph in the area. If you want to travel light and shoot at night, I recommend bringing a fast 16-35mm lens and a sturdy tripod.
Keep in mind that batteries drain extremely fast in cold temperatures. I kept mine warm and charged using a power bank inside my jacket's inner pocket. A lens heater can also be helpful to prevent frost buildup on the glass.

Park in the valley and take the Rax cable car up. The prices and schedules can be checked online in advance.
During summer, you can stay overnight in the mountain huts, including the Otto-Haus, and enjoy the peaceful alpine atmosphere. However, in winter, overnight stays in the huts on the Rax are not possible. Be prepared—nights up there can be brutally cold. In my case, temperatures dropped to -14°C.
From the mountain station of the cable car, it's about a 30-minute hike to the Otto-Haus, where this photo was taken. The trail is relatively easy but can be challenging in deep snow or icy conditions, so proper footwear is recommended.
For winter adventurers, there are emergency shelters in the huts that remain open during the colder months. However, always check online beforehand to confirm which shelters are accessible and whether they are open during your visit. Safety first!