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. Although 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.
So, for your consideration, here are 33 of the most beautiful mountains in the world.
33 Most Beautiful Mountains in the World
Each mountain in this list is worthy of a spot on the ultimate travel bucket list. You’re bound to find your favourite, from the heights of the Himalayas to the striking formation of the Dolomites and the wondrous splendor of the Alps.
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 metres.
If you’re eager to ascend Alpamayo, you can do so from two basecamps, namely Laguna Carhuacocha (4,300m) and Laguna Jancarurish (4,500m). Of course, the best option to explore the mountain and its surrounding regions is by heading out on this 11-day Alpamayo Trek.
Photo by Edward Blanco on Unsplash
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 metres, Eiger Mountain is a stunner from every direction.
Reaching Eiger is simple enough and can be done from either Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen via Interlaken. However, routes to ascend the mountain are all equally challenging. But if you want to experience Eiger in flair, opt for this private Alps Helicopter Tour.
Image by Andi from Pixabay
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.
Reaching 5,959 metres (for now) thanks to active tectonic movement, its summit continues to rise yearly. If you’re eager to explore this magnificent mountain, you’ll find its home in the Yukon province in Canada easy to navigate. Visit the Parks Canada website for more info.
Photo by Logan Troxell on Unsplash
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 metres, 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.
Ironically, its name translates to “Church Mountain”, and you’ll understand why once you set eyes on its spire-like appearance. No matter what season you visit Kirkjufell, under sunlight or snowfall, it’s a stunner.
Tip: Keen to explore this magnificent spot? Head out on a Snaefellsnes Peninsula and Kirkjufell tour. And check out my article on the best things to do on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.
Image by Susanne Stöckli from Pixabay
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 being the sharp granite peaks of the captivating Cuerno Del Paine mountain. Set amongst shimmering lakes, ancient forests, and eye-catching glaciers at 2,600 metres, it’s the star of the Andes.
Its aptly named three spires steal the show: feast your eyes on Shark’s Fin, The Sword, and The Blade. As part of a more extensive Torres del Paine tour, you’ll get up close and personal with this imposing mountain.
Photo by Andrew Svk on Unsplash
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.
An official UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can spot its radiating light at night time in Sicily: its constant glowing lava flow makes it live up to its Greek translation of “I Burn”. You can visit the looming beast as part of the surrounding nature park or treat yourself to a summit and crater guided tour.
Image by Hana Harencarova from Pixabay
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 metres, its pure rugged beauty and inviting slopes make it a standout (literally).
Easily accessible from the resort of Chamonix and its twelve ski areas, you should also visit the adjacent La Mer de Glaces.
Tip: This massive glacier sits off the northern edge of Mont Blanc and is a highlight of any guided tour of Chamonix and Mont Blanc.
Image by Simon from Pixabay
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 metres over the ancient ruins, this mountain peaks at 2,693 metres above sea level.
The picturesque green forested peaks of Huayna Picchu draw thousands of eager trekkers annually. While the iconic ruins of Machu Picchu are worth a trip in itself, get your entrance ticket to the holy site and tackle the “Death Stairs” for a proper adventure.
Image by LoggaWiggler from Pixabay
9. Ama Dablam (Nepal)
You have to 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 metres, it’s often called the Matterhorn of the Himalayas.
While you’d have to showcase bravery and nerve to ascend Ama Dablam, taking in its incredible sights on a plane tour is much easier. Taking off from Kathmandu it’s a once-in-a-lifetime trip.
Image by David Mark from Pixabay
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 metres, it’s by no means the highest peak in the world, but its flat top and wildlife-rich surroundings elevate (pun intended) the mountain.
Widely considered one of the oldest mountains in the world, it’s estimated to have started forming 280 million years ago. Today its stark and scarred northern face looms over the skyline of the city below, and its plateau stretching 3 kilometres is globally renowned. Hiking to the summit is easy, or head up to the top on a scenic cable car ride as part of this tour.
Image by Dewald Van Rensburg from Pixabay
11. Mount Assiniboine (Canada)
Straddling the British Columbia and Alberta border, Mount Assiniboine is a crown jewel of the Canadian Rockies. You’ll immediately notice its striking pyramidal shape, with a base surrounded by lush forests and alpine lakes.
At a staggering peak height of 3,618 metres, at first glance Mount Assiniboine seems inaccessible. Yet it is the feature attraction of the Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park and definitely worth a visit.
Photo by Huper by Joshua Earle on Unsplash
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.
Image by mimi_s from Pixabay
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.
Tip: If you’re travelling from San Francisco, the best way to experience this beast is on the Yosemite National Park tour.
Image by Jose Aitor Pons Buigues from Pixabay
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.
Image by Alexander Antropov from Pixabay
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.
Image by Trond Giæver Myhre from Pixabay
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.
Tip: Explore Mount Cook from the skies on this ski plane and helicopter tour.
Image by WeAreGuides from Pixabay
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.
Image by Peter Anta from Pixabay
18. Kilimanjaro (Tanzania)
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.
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.
Image by Herbert Aust from Pixabay
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.
Tip: Although hiking Vinicunca is not for the faint of heart, if you’re up for the challenge, book this full-day tour from Cusco.
Image by Sebastian Baszczyj from Pixabay
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.
Image by Rudi Nockewel from Pixabay
21. Mount Thor (Canada)
Officially known as Thor Peak, this imposing giant sits within the remote Auyuittuq National Park and is part of the Baffin Mountains. If the name sounds familiar, this peak was named after the Norse god of thunder. Once you witness its sharp rise from the base, it’s easy to understand why.
Mount Thor is an unforgettable sight as it features the world’s longest vertical drop of a staggering 1,250 metres. And considering its peak sits at 1,675 metres, this is quite impressive, albeit daunting.
22. 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.
Image by Leonid Radashkovsky from Pixabay
23. Matterhorn (Switzerland)
Symbolic with what you expect from a breathtaking mountain, Matterhorn in the Pennine Alps appears to the eye as pure magic. Its jagged peak at 4,478 metres cements it as a crown jewel of the entire region. Overlooking the town of Zermatt towards Switzerland and Breuil-Cervinia in Italy, it’s a must-see.
At its base, you’ll see crystalline lakes, green countryside, and, upon gazing upwards, the looming spire of its peak. You can head up the scenic cable car ride from Zermatt to the summit providing epic views.
Image by Mrexentric from Pixabay
24. Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Italy)
Technically it’s not just one mountain. Instead, the three iconic peaks of Tre Cime di Lavaredo in the Dolomite range are a world-renowned sight. The highest peak sits at 2,999 metres, and it’s a hotspot for hiking and scenery-chasers.
In northeastern Italy, the Dolomite Mountain Range is famous for more than Tre Cime di Lavaredo. But, if you’re heading to the three peaks, Cima Piccola, Cima Grande, and Cima Ovest, it’s exciting to know numerous hiking trails await. There’s something here for everyone, from easy treks to more strenuous trails.
Tip: If you find yourself in Venice, you should undertake a Cortina and Dolomite day tour.
Image by gavia26210 from Pixabay
25. Denali (Alaska)
The highest peak in North America, Denali towers at 6,190 metres and is the main attraction of the Denali National Park and Preserve. Situated in south-central Alaska, it’s the third-most isolated mountain in the world after Everest and Aconcagua.
However difficult it is to reach, let alone scale, the unspoilt wilderness surrounding Denali makes it stunning. From far away, images of it are enticing enough, but thanks to its five remaining glaciers, it’s even better up close. The best way to experience it is by heading out on a walking tour of the park.
Image by David Mark from Pixabay
26. Huangshan Mountains (China)
The Yellow Mountains of China, or Huangshan, showcase pure eye candy. Although they’re not amongst the highest in the country, at just over 1,800 metres, visitors come for the stunning natural displays they offer. As Huangshan dazzles with pine-clad rock formations, it’s bound to capture your imagination.
These misty mountains have provided stunning landscapes and inspired much of Chinese art. Often called the loveliest mountains in the country, they’re one of the most breathtaking of China’s landmarks.
Image by U. T. from Pixabay
27. Mount Sinai (Egypt)
Mount Sinai in the Sinai Peninsula of Egypt is both wonderful to look at and as mysterious as they come. With its almost Mars-like appearance, the landscape of the mountain displays hues of brown set against an endless range of peaks. At its highest, the summit of Sinai reaches 2,285 metres.
One of the most sacred locations in the Jewish, Christian, and Islamic faiths, it’s considered a pilgrimage site. Indulge in the history and beauty of the mountain on a day trip from Sharm and visit one of the many monasteries on Sinai.
Image by StockSnap from Pixabay
28. Castle Mountain (Canada)
Another highlight of the Canadian Rockies, Castle Mountain, is often called the best in the world. Partially because it sits within the Banff National Park and is cut from the best heaven-on-earth material possible.
With its summit at 2,766 metres, it attracts thousands annually and provides surreal views and diverse landscapes. On the eastern side of the Trans-Canada Highway, it’s a moderate hike via the Eisenhower Tower route.
Tip: Explore Banff National Park, including Castle Mountain, on this sightseeing tour.
Image by alexsutcliffe from Pixabay
29. Mount Roraima (Venezuela)
While many mountains claim border crossings between countries, Mount Roraima takes the top prize. Above dramatic clouds, it forms a natural border between Venezuela, Brazil, and Guyana. Famous not for jagged peaks or spires, Roraima features a flat top slab that stretches for 31 square kilometres.
Appearing otherworldly, its plateau has inspired many, including famous writers such as Sir Arthur Conan Doyle for his 1912 novel, The Lost World.
Image by brainin on Pixabay
30. Zugspitze (Germany)
The official highest peak in Germany, Zugspitze in the Wetterstein region of the Alps, features some of the best views in the entire world. With the Austria-Germany border crossing the summit at 2,962 metres, it once included a manned border outpost.
Today you can visit the peak via three cable cars that ascend to the top or you can head up with a full-day tour of Zugspitze. From here, the viewing platform provides unparalleled scenes of nearly 400 mountains in a panoramic view of four countries.
Image by René Bittner from Pixabay
31. Mount Kinabalu (Malaysia)
As far as legends go, the tallest mountain in Malaysia, Mount Kinabalu, takes first place. Its mystical presence showcases a unique rockface few other mountains boast. At 4,095 metres, it surely ticks the box for being imposing, but its myths add to its beauty.
The tale of it being the forever-home of a woman trapped in stone waiting for her lost prince adds flair to its buzzworthy appearance.
Tip: Read more about this famous landmark and many more worldwide to help plan your next epic adventure.
Image by dyl ptr from Pixabay
32. Montserrat (Spain)
An easy day trip from Barcelona takes you to the ragged mountain range of Montserrat in Spain. Ironically the name translates to Saw Mountain, and its prominent jagged peaks prove this right.
Its multiple peaks reach a height of 1,236 metres, and while exploring the many hiking trails, you can also visit the Santa Maria de Montserrat. But the real standout is catching the sunset over its pink-hued rocks. It’s no wonder it’s one of Spain’s famous landmarks.
Image by Josep Monter Martinez from Pixabay
33. Mount Olympus (Greece)
Consisting of a range of 52 mountains, the highest peak of Mytikas reaches 2,916 metres. The majestic peaks of Olympus are often shrouded in thick fog or low cloud formations, making it an awe-inspiring sight.
From northern Greece, the very tips of Olympus are visible from Thessaloniki, which is 85 kilometres away. You can visit the mountain by venturing through the surrounding UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.
Photo by Michael Olsen on Unsplash
Explore the Most Beautiful Mountains in the World
With all the evidence on the table, there’s no clear winner for the acclaimed honour of the most beautiful mountain. But, using this guide, you can head out into the world knowing which ones to visit and why.
Now, eager traveller, what are you waiting for? Although they’re not going anywhere, the mountains of the world await. All you need to do is plan your trip and get exploring.
I covered all of the costs involved in the writing of this post on the most beautiful mountains in the world. However, this post includes affiliate links. That means if you click through and end up making a purchase I will receive a small commission. I wanted to make sure you were aware of this.
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.