Rättvik is one of the most photogenic destinations in Sweden. Located on the shores of Lake Siljan in Dalarna, it combines iconic lake views, traditional Swedish culture, historic architecture, beautiful forests, waterfalls, viewpoints and one of the most famous piers in Europe.
For travel photographers, Rättvik offers opportunities throughout the year. Sunrise reflections on Lake Siljan, dramatic sunsets from hilltop viewpoints, traditional red cottages, bird photography and beautiful autumn colours make it one of the best photography destinations in central Sweden.
This guide covers the best photography locations in and around Rättvik, including what to photograph, when to visit, Google Maps locations and photography tips.
Best Photo Spots in Rättvik
- Rättvik Long Pier (Långbryggan)
- Vidablick
- Rättvik Church
- Kyrkstallarna
- Enån Nature Reserve
- Springkällan
- Siljansbadet
- Gammelgården
- Söderås Viewpoint
- Vikarbyn Viewpoints
- Dalhalla
- Styggforsen Waterfall
- Plintsberg
- Laknäs Brygga
- Limsjön Nature Reserve
Rättvik Long Pier (Långbryggan)
Google Maps:
https://maps.google.com/?q=Rättviks+Långbrygga
The iconic 628-metre-long wooden pier is the most photographed location in Rättvik and one of the most recognizable landmarks in Sweden. The strong leading lines stretching into Lake Siljan create endless composition opportunities. The pier is particularly famous among landscape photographers and drone photographers.
What to Photograph
- Leading lines
- Reflections
- Sunrise colours
- Blue hour photography
- Drone images
- Silhouettes at sunset
Best Instagram Spot
Stand at the entrance and shoot directly down the pier for the classic symmetrical composition. Another excellent angle is from the beach beside the pier during calm conditions.
Best Time
Sunrise for reflections and fewer visitors. Sunset for dramatic colours and silhouettes. September often provides excellent light angles.
Vidablick
Google Maps:
https://maps.google.com/?q=Vidablick+Rättvik
Vidablick is the most famous viewpoint above Rättvik. The historic observation tower offers spectacular panoramic views across Lake Siljan, Rättvik and the surrounding forests. The viewpoint has been attracting photographers since the late 1800s.
What to Photograph
- Lake Siljan panoramas
- Sunset landscapes
- Autumn forests
- Night photography
- Drone photography
Best Time
Sunset is often spectacular, especially during autumn when the forests around Rättvik become colourful.
Rättvik Church
Google Maps:
https://maps.google.com/?q=Rättviks+Kyrka
Beautifully positioned beside Lake Siljan, Rättvik Church is one of the most photographed churches in Dalarna. The combination of medieval architecture, lakeside location and surrounding church stables creates a unique photography location.
What to Photograph
- Church architecture
- Church reflected in the lake
- Kyrkstallarna
- Traditional Dalarna culture
Kyrkstallarna
Google Maps:
https://maps.google.com/?q=Kyrkstallarna+Rättvik
The historic church stables around Rättvik Church are among the most unique cultural photography locations in Sweden. Around the church are dozens of preserved stables dating back centuries.
Best Photos
- Traditional wooden buildings
- Architectural details
- Historic Dalarna culture
- Winter snow scenes
Enån Nature Reserve
Google Maps:
https://maps.google.com/?q=Enån+Naturreservat+Rättvik
Enån is one of the hidden gems of Rättvik. The winding stream passes through beautiful forest landscapes and offers excellent opportunities for nature photography. Wildlife such as beavers can sometimes be seen during the evening.
What to Photograph
- Forest streams
- Autumn colours
- Wildlife
- Long exposure water photography
Springkällan
Google Maps:
https://maps.google.com/?q=Springkällan+Rättvik
This unusual natural spring continuously shoots water from the ground and has become one of Rättvik’s most interesting natural attractions. The surrounding forest is beautiful and particularly photogenic after rainfall.
Best Subjects
- The spring itself
- Forest details
- Moss
- Macro photography
Siljansbadet
Google Maps:
https://maps.google.com/?q=Siljansbadet+Rättvik
The sandy shoreline next to the Long Pier offers excellent foreground opportunities and wide views across Lake Siljan. During calm mornings it becomes one of the best reflection photography locations in the area.
Gammelgården
Google Maps:
https://maps.google.com/?q=Gammelgården+Rättvik
This open-air museum contains historic timber buildings and traditional farmhouses that showcase life in old Dalarna. It is one of the best locations for cultural photography.
What to Photograph
- Traditional architecture
- Historic details
- Swedish cultural heritage
- Wooden textures
Söderås Viewpoint
Google Maps:
https://maps.google.com/?q=Söderås+Rättvik
Söderås is one of the finest sunset locations around Lake Siljan. Elevated views across the water create beautiful compositions throughout the year.
Best Time
Golden hour and sunset.
Vikarbyn Viewpoints
Google Maps:
https://maps.google.com/?q=Vikarbyn+Rättvik
The hills around Vikarbyn offer classic postcard views across Rättvik, Lake Siljan and the surrounding countryside. These viewpoints have attracted visitors for generations.
Best Subjects
- Rolling landscapes
- Traditional farms
- Lake panoramas
- Drone photography
Dalhalla
Google Maps:
https://maps.google.com/?q=Dalhalla
One of Sweden’s most unique photography locations. The former limestone quarry creates dramatic scenery unlike anywhere else in Scandinavia.
Styggforsen Waterfall
Google Maps:
https://maps.google.com/?q=Styggforsen
A short drive from Rättvik brings you to one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Dalarna. It is especially photogenic after rain and during autumn.
Plintsberg
Google Maps:
https://maps.google.com/?q=Plintsberg+Leksand
Just south of Rättvik, this famous viewpoint offers sweeping views across Lake Siljan and is one of the best sunrise locations in the region.
Laknäs Brygga
Google Maps:
https://maps.google.com/?q=Laknäs+Brygga
One of the best waterfront photography locations around Siljan with piers, reflections and beautiful sunset light.
Limsjön Nature Reserve
Google Maps:
https://maps.google.com/?q=Limsjön+Naturreservat
The best bird photography location near Rättvik. During migration periods you can photograph waterfowl, cranes and numerous other bird species.
Best Sunrise Spots in Rättvik
- Rättvik Long Pier
- Plintsberg
- Limsjön Nature Reserve
- Laknäs Brygga
- Siljansbadet
Best Sunset Spots in Rättvik
- Vidablick
- Söderås
- Rättvik Long Pier
- Vikarbyn
- Dalhalla
Best Time of Year for Photography
Spring
Bird migration, fresh greenery and fewer visitors.
Summer
Long evenings and classic Dalarna scenery.
Autumn
The best season. Forests around Siljan become vibrant shades of yellow and orange.
Winter
Snow-covered landscapes and frozen lake scenes.
Related Photography Guides
- Best Photo Spots Near Lake Siljan
- Best Photo Spots in Tällberg
- Best Nature Reserves in Dalarna
- About the Author
FAQ
What is the most famous photo spot in Rättvik?
Rättvik Long Pier (Långbryggan) is the most iconic photography location in the area.
Where is the best viewpoint in Rättvik?
Vidablick offers the best panoramic views across Lake Siljan.
Where can I photograph wildlife near Rättvik?
Limsjön Nature Reserve and Enån Nature Reserve offer the best wildlife opportunities.
How many days should photographers spend in Rättvik?
Two to three days allows enough time for sunrise, sunset and nearby nature photography locations.