One of the easiest and most rewarding photography stops near Passo Giau, the small Ra Gusela Pond offers an incredible reflection of the surrounding Dolomite peaks when conditions are calm. It’s located just a few hundred meters from the pass and only requires a short walk across the alpine meadow.

Parking location

Pond coordinates:
46.4817378, 12.0618866

Sometimes the meadow is fenced because of horses or cows grazing nearby, but you are still allowed to enter as hiking trails pass through the area.

Why It’s Worth Visiting

This place may look simple at first, but during calm weather the water turns into a perfect natural mirror reflecting Ra Gusela and the surrounding mountains. Even with a bit of wind, the scenery here is still absolutely beautiful and very photogenic.

Because it’s so accessible, it’s one of my favorite quick stops around Passo Giau — especially during sunrise or sunset when the light becomes softer and the mountains start glowing.

Photography Tips

The best conditions are:

• sunrise;

• sunset;

• windless evenings;

• and calm mornings after rain.

The reflections change constantly depending on weather and light conditions, which makes every visit feel a little different.

Important Tips

• Wear waterproof shoes if the meadow is wet

• Sunrise and sunset offer the best reflections

• Weather changes quickly at this altitude

• The area can become windy during the middle of the day

• Don’t rush — there are many beautiful compositions around the pond

Even though it’s just a tiny pond, this is one of those classic Dolomite spots that photographers keep coming back to again and again.