There’s no mistaking the majesty of the world’s mountains. These giants formed by Mother Nature tend to cast mesmerising spells on any who lay eyes upon them. And, as much as we’ve explored them, they still hold many mysteries, myths, and legends.
Each holds the power to be destructive, productive, and enticing. To most, these inaccessible beasts intimidate and enthrall. And while most dare not challenge them, they invoke the need to discover that few other earthly features can compare with.
1. Alpamayo (Peru)
To carry the title of the most beautiful mountain in the world seems like a heavy burden, but according to some, Alpamayo does it very well. An awe-inspiring pyramidal summit covered in pure white snow lies at the heart of the Cordillera Blanca in Peru. Its highest peak towers at 5,947 meters.
2. Eiger Mountain (Switzerland)
Sitting on the eastern side of one of the many ridge crests you’ll find here, Eiger includes the breathtaking peaks of Monch and Jungfrau. At an elevation of 3,970 meters, Eiger Mountain is a stunner from every direction.
3. Mount Logan (Canada)
As the tallest mountain in Canada, Mount Logan is a feast for the senses. Being the second-highest summit in North America, its peaks are permanently covered in snow. Mount Logan is a hiker’s paradise located within the Kluane National Park.
4. Kirkjufell (Iceland)
Most of the time, a mountain’s icon status rests upon its height, but in the case of Kirkjufell, at just 463 meters, everything revolves around aesthetics. A conical peak north of the capital city, Reykjavik, when paired with the dazzling Northern Lights above, is quite a sight.
5. Cuerno Del Paine (Chile)
As magical as the entire Patagonia region is, a specific highlight of this rugged landscape takes the uncontested first prize. That highlight is the sharp granite peaks of the captivating Cuerno Del Paine mountain. Set amongst shimmering lakes, ancient forests, and eye-catching glaciers at 2,600 meters, it’s the star of the Andes.
6. Mount Etna (Italy)
One of the world’s most active volcanoes, Mount Etna is, without a doubt, a force of nature. But, beyond that, it’s also gorgeous to see, especially covered in snow during winter. Because Etna has been erupting for the last 2,700 years, it also holds a fascinating reputation.
7. Mont Blanc (France)
If you’re an avid skier, you’re already familiar with the highest peak in Europe, the white snow-dusted mountain of Mont Blanc. Towering at 4,810 meters, its pure rugged beauty and inviting slopes make it a standout (literally).
8. Huayna Picchu (Peru)
Most have probably seen the beautiful snapshots of Machu Picchu, but did you know those images were taken from the summit of Huayna Picchu? Looming at 260 meters over the ancient ruins, this mountain peaks at 2,693 meters above sea level.
9. Ama Dablam (Nepal)
You must admit, a mountain whose images are used by companies such as Google and Apple must be a glorious sight. Indeed, Ama Dablam is that and so much more. At an altitude of 6,812 meters, it’s often called the Matterhorn of the Himalayas.
10. Table Mountain (South Africa)
At one of Africa’s southernmost points lies Table Mountain, amongst the immense natural beauty of South Africa. At just over 1,000 meters, it’s by no means the highest peak in the world, but its flat top and wildlife-rich surroundings elevate (pun intended) the mountain.
11. Mount Assiniboine (Canada)
Straddling the British Columbia and Alberta border, Mount Assiniboine is the crown jewel of the Canadian Rockies. Its striking pyramidal shape, with a base surrounded by lush forests and alpine lakes, immediately draws the eye.
12. The Pitons (St. Lucia)
When visiting the picturesque island of St. Lucia, a sight that greets all are the twin peaks of the Pitons. Two ancient volcanic plugs, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, they are now covered in dense jungle landscapes. Gros Piton and Petit Piton will snatch your attention with their stunning silhouettes.
The highest peak, at only 798 metres, is a favourite hiking and climbing destination. Gros Piton offers a moderately strenuous 4-hour trek when you’re out hiking, whereas the much wetter Petit Piton is a challenge to even the most experienced.
13. El Capitán (California)
A world-famous granite face that rises from the western side of Yosemite Valley, California, El Capitan is a true monolith, although not the highest. Its near-vertical ascent is the result of thousands of years of glacial movement. All culminating in one of the most popular spots for rock-climbing worldwide.
Rising to 914 metres, El Capitan sits adjacent to the equally majestic Half Dome, both giants of the national park’s skyline.
14. Mount Fuji (Japan)
It should be no surprise that the epitome of spectacular mountains, Mount Fuji, features on almost every list of beautiful mountains. While visiting, you’ll be able to witness one of the only disc-shaped clouds that spiral from the mountaintop.
At its summit, you’ll stand 3,894 metres above sea level and have sweeping views of the surrounding region dotted with pristine lakes. But, if you’re not much of a hiker, sightseeing tours from Tokyo are your best bet to witness this stunning mountain.
15. Jotunheimen (Norway)
While every mountain can be deemed a photographer’s delight, few ranges in the world can compete with Jotunheimen in Norway. Its highest peak of Galdhøpiggen reaches 2,469 metres and features more than just mountainous beauty.
Engaging with Jotunheimen can be done in several ways. The most popular is as part of the Sognefjellet National Tourist Route. Or you can capture its beauty on a drive along Europe’s highest mountain pass.
Tip: If you’re after waterfalls, read more about the most beautiful waterfalls in the world to find your favourite.
16. Mount Cook (New Zealand)
Adorned with snow-capped peaks, Mount Cook, or as it’s locally known, Aoraki, is one of New Zealand’s most enticing natural features. A bucket list activity for mountain climbers and hikers, at 3,724 metres it offers unparalleled views along its trails.
Sure, the adrenaline rush of scaling Mount Cook is enough to attract thousands, but encircling its base, you’ll find even more natural wonders. One is the longest glacier in the country — the spellbinding Tasman Glacier.
17. Mount Everest (Nepal/Tibet)
An adventurer’s dream, Mount Everest, demonstrates precisely why mountains entice us as much as they do. The tallest mountain range above sea level, its highest peak reaches 8,848 metres. While it’s the most attempted mountain peak in the world, only some ever reach its summit.
That, however, doesn’t change the fact that its stunning beauty offers almost unreal views, sitting on the border of Nepal and the autonomous region of Tibet. Even if you don’t plan on tackling an ascension of Everest, viewing it from afar is enough for an unforgettable experience.
18. Kilimanjaro (Tanzania)
Being one of the so-called Seven Summits of Africa, from a distance, you can see its collection of several diminishing glaciers on its peak. Beyond that, Kilimanjaro is also the world’s highest free-standing mountain, adding to its allure.
Carrying the nickname “Roof of Africa”, Mount Kilimanjaro in the northeastern region of Tanzania lives up to this moniker. At an elevation of 5,895 metres, it’s actually a dormant volcano, with the last recorded eruption dating back 360,000 years.
19. Vinicunca (Peru)
Often called Rainbow Mountain, Vinicunca in Peru is synonymous with cascading shades of colour thanks to the erosion of mineral-rich deposits over thousands of years. Its dynamic shape is the result of volcanic activity. Today it’s famed amongst hikers looking for an escape from snowy mountaintops.
With several hiking routes up to its high altitude of 5,200 metres, you can expect a few things tackling this gorgeous marvel. Along with its obvious appeal, you’ll see numerous hot springs, plenty of wildlife, and in the distance, the Andes Mountains.
20. Half Dome (California)
Adjacent to El Capitan in Yosemite National Park sits Half Dome, an imposing feature in the park’s landscape. Reaching heights of 2,694 metres, it’s one of the world’s most famous big wall climbing sites. With its distinct shape, it’s a monolithic granite beast that overlooks the region.
In contrast to other famous mountains, getting to the base of Half Dome is relatively easy. Within Yosemite, along a manicured 20-kilometre walkway, it’s pretty accessible, and you’ll be delivered right to the rockface.
Tip: If you’ve got limited time, read this guide on the best things to do in Yosemite in one day.
21. Mount Teide (Canary Islands)
Claiming a noteworthy title, Mount Teide, located on the island of Tenerife, is the highest point in Spain at 3,714 metres. It’s one of the world’s highest volcanoes, and if it were measured from the ocean floor, it would reach 7,498 metres. But it’s not its statistics that make it a hit.
Surrounding the mountain is the most visited national park in Europe, Teide National Park, an official UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you’ll find a desert landscape flush with plant and animal species unique to the region.
Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.