Lac du Goléon
Lac du Goléon is a high-altitude alpine lake sitting at around 2,400 meters in the Écrins massif, framed by the jagged peaks of La Meije and the Aiguilles d'Arves reflecting in its still, turquoise-green water. The classic composition places the lake in the foreground with the rocky peaks rising behind it; arrive early in the morning when the wind is calm and the surface acts as a mirror. A wide-angle lens works well to capture the full sweep of the surrounding cirque, while a longer focal length lets you isolate the glaciers and ridgelines in detail. The hike up takes roughly two to three hours from La Grave, so an early start gives you the best light and avoids afternoon clouds that frequently build over the summits. Late summer brings wildflowers along the trail edges, adding foreground color to frame your shots. (La Grave, Hautes-Alpes, France)
