Our guide to Brazil’s wildlife
16 December 2024
10 beautiful mountains around the world
|In a world adorned with natural wonders, few sights rival the majestic beauty and serene grandeur of mountains. Written into myths and legends, mountains beckon humans to conquer their peaks or immortalise them through captivating photographs or paintings. All around the world you’ll find unique formations that will stop you in your tracks. Discover our list of 10 beautiful mountains around the world.
Table Mountain, South Africa
Table Mountain is one of South Africa‘s most iconic landmarks, located in the city of Cape Town and Table Mountain National Park. This flat-topped mountain, standing at approximately 1,084m (3,558ft) above sea level, forms a prominent backdrop to the city and has been there for approximately 600 million years – it’s truly a spectacle to behold.
For a dry hike, visit between November and March, and explore multiple relatively easy trails leading you through unique flora. You’ll be rewarded with a sense of accomplishment and panoramic views of the Atlantic coast. If you’re wanting an easier journey to the summit, hop aboard the cable car, keeping an eye on the ground for the fluffy rock hyrax that calls this mountain home.
Read: Bucket list South African marine wildlife experiences
Mount Cook (Aoraki), New Zealand
Translating to ‘cloud piecer’, this giant mountain stands tall on the horizon. Standing at 3,724m (12,218ft) on the South Island, it’s New Zealand’s highest peak. Holding huge cultural significance to the area, the name of Aoraki (Mount Cook) originates from an old Maori legend about Aoraki and his three brothers, who were the sons of Rakinui (the Sky Father). While on a sea voyage, their canoe was stranded and overturned. The brothers climbed on top of the canoe, when the freezing south wind turned them to stone. The canoe became the South Island; Aoraki and his brothers became the peaks of the Southern Alps.
Far from city lights, the stargazing here is magnificent! Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park forms the majority of New Zealand’s only International Dark Sky Reserve and is the ultimate location to see the night sky in all its glory, with beautiful mountains surrounding you.
Read: The cinematic landscapes of New Zealand
Mount Assiniboine, Canada
Mount Assiniboine, often referred to as the ‘Matterhorn of the Rockies’, is one of the most iconic peaks in the Canadian Rockies. This unique pyramidal peak straddles the border between British Columbia and Alberta, within the Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park and Banff National Park.
The Canadian Rockies offer ample opportunity for outdoor adventure; if you want a close-up of this towering, beautiful mountain, there are multiple trails visitors can tackle but that are only suitable for experienced hikers. Alternatively, a drive or train journey through the Rockies is an unforgettable experience. The snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and turquoise-blue lakes along the Icefield Parkway are some of the most memorable sights in North America.
Read: Our bucket list guide to Canada for beginners
Mount Kirkjufell, Iceland
Despite its height of only 463m (1,519ft), there are few more memorable sights in Iceland than the conical peak of Kirkjufell, just two hours north of Reykjavik. When seen under the dancing northern lights, it’s an unforgettable image.
Used as one of the filming locations for Game of Thrones, it’s a landmark photographers flock to, capturing the three streams of the nearby falls in the same shot. Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful mountains around the world, it’s an image that’s been captured many times but that remains absolutely remarkable, whether in snow or sunshine.
Read: When and how to see the northern lights in Iceland
Vinicunca, Peru
Vinicunca, commonly known as Rainbow Mountain or Montaña de Siete Colores, is a striking natural wonder located in the Andes of Peru. This vibrant masterpiece was painted by nature itself; its unique mineralogical composition has caused colourful stripes of red, green, and gold – a surreal blend that defies the ordinary.
Although known to local communities for centuries, holding cultural and spiritual significance for the local indigenous Quechua people, in recent years the mountain has earned widespread international attention. The local communities and authorities are now working together to preserve the natural beauty of Rainbow Mountain and ensure that tourism benefits the local economy, without degrading the environment – so that this wonder can stand the test of time.
Read: Beyond Machu Picchu: 5 authentic ways to experience Peru
Mount Fuji, Japan
Arguably the most well-known mountain in the world, Mount Fuji is Japan‘s highest mountain and can be found on the bucket list of many travellers (and for good reason). Renowned for its nearly perfect symmetrical cone, which is snow-capped for about five months a year, Mount Fuji has been a sacred site for practitioners of Shintoism and Buddhism for centuries. The mountain is home to several shrines and temples, including the Sengen Shrine, which marks the traditional starting point of the pilgrimage to the summit.
Whether you’re challenging yourself to climb to the summit, admiring the Japanese mountain from a skyscraper in Tokyo, or glimpsing it from a bullet train on the way to Osaka, Mount Fuji retains the majesty captured in ancient paintings.
Read: A traveller’s guide to Okinawa, land of longevity
Mount Fitz Roy, Argentina
Mount Fitz Roy’s rugged beauty and challenging climbs make it a dream destination for mountaineers and outdoor enthusiasts. Also known as Cerro Fitz Roy, this prominent peak is located in the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, on the border between Argentina and Chile. Rising to 3,405 m (11,171ft), this towering spire of rock and ice is recognised as one of the greatest challenges by the world’s climbing community.
The nearby small village of El Chaltén serves as the main gateway for exploring Mount Fitz Roy and the surrounding trails. In the trekking capital of Argentina, whether you’re an experienced hiker or are just wanting to explore the Patagonian wilderness at a gentle pace, you’ll be promised immense natural beauty and incredible views of beautiful mountains.
Read: You can’t go to Argentina without doing these 10 things
Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Three Peaks of Lavaredo), Italy
This striking mountain group in the Italian Dolomites consists of three distinct peaks: Cima Piccola, Cima Grande, and Cima Ovest. The Dolomites are undoubtedly one of the most stunning landscapes in Europe – full of beautiful mountains. In recognition of its outstanding natural beauty and geological significance, the Italian mountain range was even designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site back in 2009. During the summer months (when the majority of the snow has melted off the mountain peaks), adventurers flock to this area to complete some of the most beautiful hikes!
The Three Peaks of Lavaredo form quite possibly one of the most iconic hikes travellers can complete when visiting the Italian Alps. The three distinctive, pyramid-shaped limestone peaks (as the name suggests) offer breathtaking views from all angles. The peaks might be the star of the show, but you’ll also be treated to more spectacular scenes throughout the hike: tranquil alpine lakes, lush meadows dotted with wildflowers, and sweeping landscapes.
Read: 5 of the most beautiful hikes in Europe
Stetind, Norway
The gigantic granite icon is Norway’s national mountain. A well-known landmark amongst sailors along the coast, the vertical, steep mountain looks like an anvil and rises majestically from the sea. Over the years, it has inspired and attracted climbers, artists, and photographers from far and wide.
At 1,392m (4,567ft) above sea level, the Stetind may not be the tallest mountain in Norway – but surrounded by fjords and coastal landscapes, it’s highly revered for its stunning summit views that are worth the gruelling climb to the top.
Read: Wellness travel: active escapes for mind, body and soul
Montserrat, Spain
Montserrat, translated as ‘Saw Mountain’, is a range that takes its name from its ragged appearance. The name is also used interchangeably for the famous monastery about halfway up the mountain. Both the mountain and monastery are an easy day trip from Barcelona.
Its Benedictine monastery, Santa Maria de Montserrat, dates back to the 11th century and is still home to 60 Benedictine monks, alongside the revered statue of the Virgin Mary and the patron saint of Catalonia, which pilgrims and visitors flock to the monastery to view. You’ll find a variety of hiking routes that cater for different levels of experience, from leisurely walks to more challenging climbs up its peaks, and views from the top that are undoubtedly worth the effort.
Read: A summer of fiestas: the best cultural celebrations in Spain
Make it happen
Are you ready to integrate one of these beautiful mountains into a customised tour planned by local experts? Our travel partners are based on the ground in the destinations, and are full of insider knowledge to create a trip that’s just perfect for you. Get in touch to tell them about your ideal holiday today!
Get inspired
Discover more articles worth exploring
