12 of the Most Beautiful Mountains in Europe for Nature Lovers

Europe is blessed with iconic, beautiful peaks that are pleasing to the eye and offer numerous outdoor adventure opportunities.

Stunning snow-capped peaks, lush alpine valleys, glacial lakes, rugged slopes, and challenging but scenic hiking trails—these mountains offer so much. If you are into mountain escapes, you are in for a treat exploring some of Europe’s mountains.

Looking for the most beautiful mountains to explore in Europe? Whether you are after the tranquility of mountain escapes, looking for picture-perfect natural scenery, or are into active exploration, you will find your slice of paradise on the slopes and peaks of these 12 mountains.

Table of Contents

Matterhorn, Switzerland / Italy

The Matterhorn is the world’s most photographed mountain thanks to the picture-perfect scenery it offers, including the almost perfect pyramidal peak. Straddling the border between Switzerland and Italy, the Matterhorn rises to an incredible height of 14,692 feet (4,478 meters), making it one of the tallest in Europe.

Travel to either Zermatt in Switzerland or Cervinia in Italy for perfect opportunities to enjoy the iconic silhouette of the Matterhorn. From these destinations, views of the mountain are strikingly stunning, especially during sunsets or sunrises when it’s bathed in warm hues.

Other than its pyramid peak with dramatic ridges, adventurers can marvel at its lush alpine meadows, glacial lakes, and charming mountain villages that surround it.

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If you like scenery, consider taking the Gornergrat Railway, which passes through some of the mountain’s most scenic spots.

Matterhorn also offers excellent mountaineering, hiking, skiing, snowboarding, and paragliding opportunities.

It is a mountain with something for every type of outdoor enthusiast, whether you are just looking to admire the stunning alpine environment or would like to get active with mountain activities.

Travel Tips

Hiking Trails: For a scenic hike, try the Five Lakes Walk, which is free to access. The trail takes about 2-3 hours and offers breathtaking views of the Matterhorn reflected in the lakes.
Gornergrat Railway: The round-trip ticket costs $116, and trains run from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks during your trip.

Mount Elbrus, Russia

Mount Elbrus has the highest peak in Europe, at 18,510 feet (5,642 meters). The mountain, which has two peaks that are covered in ice all year round, is located in the Caucasus Mountains of Southern Russia, near the border with Georgia.

If you like big cities, you can travel to Nalchik or Kislovodsk, some of the gateways to Mount Elbrus. If you like charming villages, choose Terskol or Chegem, famous mountain resort villages near Mount Elbrus. These locations offer stunning views of this dormant volcano, with the valleys and stunning alpine meadows surrounding it.

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There are many ways to soak in Mount Elbrus’s beauty. You can take cable car rides, summit one of its peaks, or go skiing in ski resort towns located on its slopes.

Travel Tips

Local Cuisine in Terskol: Don’t miss out on khinkali (dumplings) and shashlik (grilled meat skewers).
Elbrus Cable Car: The round-trip ticket costs $20 during peak season. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys during your trip.

Mount Olympus, Greece

If you are into Greek Mythology, Mount Olympus should be on your bucket list. It is believed to be the dwelling of the twelve Olympian gods, which is why it is an essential site in Greek culture.

Located in the Olympus Range, Mount Olympus is the tallest peak in Greece. Its highest peak, Mytikas, reaches 9,570 feet (2,918 meters). For the best of Mount Olympus, head to Litochoro, a charming town at the foot of the mountain that serves as a popular base for hikers and climbers exploring the mountain.

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If you are into active exploration, you do not want to miss Enipeas Gorge. This scenic canyon is located on the eastern slopes of Mount Olympus and is very popular among hikers.

Travel Tips

Enipeas Gorge Hike: The trail is free to access and offers a scenic hike through lush forests and along the river. Wear sturdy hiking boots and bring plenty of water for the 6-hour trek.
Olympus National Park Visitor Center: Visit the center in Litochoro to gather information about the trails and the mountain’s natural history. It’s open from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Jungfrau, Switzerland

Dramatic snow-capped peaks, glaciers, deep valleys, and pristine landscapes are some of Jungfrau’s features that make it one of the most beautiful. To perfectly enjoy the scenery of the Jungfrau’s 13,642 feet (4,158 meters) elevation, head to Interlaken.

Jungfraujoch, often referred to as the “Top of Europe,” is a saddle between the Jungfrau and the Mönch peaks. Accessible by the Jungfrau Railway, it offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.

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Whether enjoying the winter scenery, hiking on Panorama or Eiger Trails, skiing in resorts such as Wengen, Grindelwald, and Mürren, or exploring the charming Swiss villages, Jungfrau will always find a way of leaving you in awe.

Travel Tips

Mürren Village: Visit this car-free village for a peaceful experience and stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
Eiger Trail Hike: This trail is free to access and offers breathtaking views of the Eiger North Face. The hike takes about 2-3 hours.

Ben Nevis, Scotland

Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in Scotland and the British Isles, standing at an elevation of 4,413 feet (1,345 meters). It is located in the Grampian Mountains of the Scottish Highlands, near the town of Fort William in Lochaber.

On clear days, mountaineers who summit Ben Nevis get rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Scottish Highlands, nearby mountains, lochs, and the coastline. The Pony Track is the most popular track for summiting Ben Nevis. However, if you are in for a challenge, you may opt for the Carn Mor Dearg Arete Route.

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Ben Nevis is also a haven for rock climbers, catering to climbers of varied skills and experience. The highlight of climbers pursuing Ben Nevis is always the Tower Ridge or the Observatory Ridge.

Travel Tips

Carn Mor Dearg Arete Route: This trail requires good mountaineering skills and experience. Ensure you have the necessary equipment and check weather conditions before setting out.
Local Dining in Fort William: Try traditional Scottish dishes like haggis at The Crofter Bar and Restaurant.

Mulhacén, Spain

Most Beautiful Mountains in Europe Mulhacén, Spain — © Celso Coutinho / Shutterstock

Mulhacen is part of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range, located within the Sierra Nevada National Park.

Mulhacén rises to an elevation of 11,414 feet (3,479 meters), making it the highest peak on Spain’s Mainland, a reputation that keeps attracting tourists, especially climbers from all over Europe. Come ready with your camera to capture the deep valleys, alpine meadows, and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea in the distance.

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You may also want to explore the charming Alpujarras Villages located on the southern slopes of the Sierra Nevada. These villages offer a great opportunity to glimpse into Moorish culture, architecture, and traditional ways of life.

Travel Tips

Mulhacén Summit Hike: The hike to the summit takes about 8-10 hours round trip. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and layers for changing weather conditions. A map or GPS is also recommended for navigation.
Local Dining in Trevélez: Try dishes like cured ham and plato alpujarreño at Restaurante Piedra Ventana.

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The Zugspitze, Germany

Zugspitze, rising to an elevation of 9,718 feet (2,962 meters) above sea level, is the highest peak in Germany. It lies on the German / Austrian border, and summiting or hiking it on a clear day offers views of Germany’s Bavarian countryside, Austria, Italy and Switzerland.

If you are an experienced mountaineer, take the technical Hollental Route to the summit of Zugspitze. This route involves climbing up a long via Ferrata and crossing a glacier. If you are experienced and fit, the journey up this route will offer you just the right amount of challenge you need.

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You can also take the cable car up the peak if you are unafraid of heights. Another alternative is taking the cogwheel train that takes passengers to a glacier closer to the summit. So, if you are not into hiking, fear not, as there are options for summiting the Zugspitze without sweating it out.

And oh, the Zugspitze has several summit restaurants offering meals with a view and hosting events like weddings and conference services. If this is something you would fancy, consider checking out Panorama 2962, Sonnalpin, Gletscher 2600, and Drehmoser 9.

Travel Tips

Dining at Panorama 2962: Consider dining at Panorama 2962 for a meal with a spectacular view. Reservations are recommended, especially if you’re planning to visit during peak seasons or special events.
Hollental Route Preparation: If you’re taking the challenging Hollental Route, ensure you have climbing gear, including harnesses and helmets.

Galdhøpiggen, Norway

Most Beautiful Mountains in Europe Galdhopiggen, Norway — © Norway Valerii Adobe / Adobe Stock

Galdhøpiggen, at a height of 8,100 feet (2,469 meters), is the highest mountain in Norway, Scandinavia, and Northern Europe.

Looking over Norway’s countryside at the summit of Galdhopiggen is a unique experience every mountain climber would cherish. If you hike on clear days, you will enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Jotunheimen Mountains.

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Hiking to the summit typically takes 4-6 hours, depending on your balance and stamina. While there are many routes to the summit, the shortest and most popular is the one that starts at the Juvasshytta cabin. Hiking to the top involves crossing Styggebreen Glacier, which is why a professional guide is required.

For an immersive experience, consider staying at the many mountain lodges perched on different levels of the slopes.

Travel Tips

Juvasshytta Accommodation: Consider staying at the Juvasshytta cabin, which offers a convenient starting point for the hike. Book in advance, especially during peak months.
Local Dining in Lom: After your hike, enjoy a meal at Brimi Sæter. Make sure to try their sour cream porridge and cured meats.

Marmolada, Italy

The Dolomites are known for their dramatic and picture-perfect scenery. However, if you want the best of this mountain range, focus your exploration on Marmolada. Marmolada is the highest mountain in the Dolomites, which is why it is also called the Queen of the Dolomites.

Mountain climbers can summit its two prominent peaks, Punta Penia at 10,968 feet (3,343 meters) or Punta Rocca at 10,712 feet (3,265 meters). You can take the cable car up the Punta Rocca and enjoy stunning views of the Dolomites.

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In winter, the mountain offers countless adrenaline-pumping activities, including alpine skiing, snowboarding, mountaineering, and freerides. Marmolada is home to the longest ski slope in the Dolomites, La Bellunese, which runs for about 7.5 miles (12 kilometers).

Travel Tips

Local Dining in Malga Ciapela: After a day on the slopes, try polenta and spezzatino at Bar Ristorante Tabia Palazza.

Mount Kazbek, Georgia

Mount Kazbek is a dormant stratovolcano located south of the Georgia-Russian border. It has become a sought-after mountain climbing destination for a unique reason. Despite its towering height of 16,581 feet (5,054 meters), it is a challenge that many climbers without technical climbing skills conquer. With just fitness and confidence, adventurers are rewarded with the beauty of alpine meadows, jagged peaks, and ancient glaciers on their way to the top.

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This stunning landscape is a haven for photographers, hikers, nature enthusiasts, and skiers. Whether it’s the breathtaking Terek River, the slopes adorned with alpine meadows, or the towering peaks of Georgia, Mount Kazbek offers a scenery that captivates the eyes.

Travel Tips

Stepantsminda Base Camp: Stay in Stepantsminda, the main base camp for Mount Kazbek. Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak climbing season.
Gergeti Trinity Church Hike: Take a day to hike to the Gergeti Trinity Church, which is free to access. The hike takes about 2-3 hours round trip.

Mont Blanc, France / Italy

Whether you explore Mont Blanc from Chamonix in France or Courmayeur in Italy, the scenery remains strikingly beautiful, especially in winter. The mountain, which rises to 15,777 feet (4,809 meters), lies in the Graian Alps on the border of France and Italy.

Glaciers grace the mountain, and verdant valleys dotted with alpine flora make the scenery even more breathtaking.

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Some noteworthy highlights of exploring Mont Blanc include Aiguille du Midi, a rocky pinnacle accessible by cable car from Chamonix. From its summit, you can enjoy unparalleled panoramic views of Mont Blanc and the surrounding Alps. You also want to take a keen interest in the Mer de Glace, or “Sea of Ice,” one of the largest glaciers in Europe, located on the northern slopes of Mont Blanc. It is easily accessible from Chamonix via the Montenvers Railway.

When visiting, you can choose to summit Mont Blanc via the Gouter Route, hike around the mountain villages, go skiing in Chamonix, or bask in the beauty of the highest peak in Western Europe.

Travel Tips

Hiking in Courmayeur: Explore the trails around Courmayeur, which are free to access. The trails offer stunning views of Mont Blanc and the surrounding valleys.
Chamonix Ski Pass: Purchase a ski pass for $85 per day to access the slopes in Chamonix. The pass provides entry to multiple ski areas, perfect for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.

The Grossglockner, Austria

At 12,461 feet (3,798 meters) above the Adriatic, Grossglockner is the highest peak in Austria. Being the centerpiece of High Tauern National Park, visiting Grossglockner offers more than snow-capped peaks. The mountain is home to unique animals and plant species. Lucky adventurers get to spot vultures, ibises, golden eagles, chamois, and marmots.

There is no better way to soak in the beauty of Mt. Grossglockner than staying in the village of Heiligenblut. This village offers stunning views of the snow-capped peaks and the surrounding lush valleys, perfect for tourists looking to relax in the calming mountain ambiance.

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However, you can take a road trip on the scenic Grossglockner High Alpine Road or go skiing at Grossglockner Resort, all of which are great opportunities to marvel at the beautiful Grossglockner.

Travel Tips

Grossglockner High Alpine Road: The toll for this scenic drive costs $46 per car. It’s open from May to October, weather permitting.
Dining in Heiligenblut: Enjoy pizzas, pinsas, and schnitzels at Café-Restaurant Dorfstub’m.