Top of the peaks: Our favourite mountains in Europe
Europe is home to some of the most stunning mountain landscapes in the world. Whether you're looking for breath-taking peaks, scenic hiking trails, or charming mountain villages, the mountains in Europe have it all.
From the iconic Alps to the dramatic Dolomites, these mountain ranges offer unrivalled natural beauty and adventure for every type of walker.
The Dolomites: Peak perfection in Italy
Italy’s Dolomites are among Europe’s most iconic mountain ranges. Famous for jagged peaks, dramatic cliffs, and alpine meadows, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-see for walkers and nature lovers. But it’s not just the views that make the Dolomites special.
Hike beneath the towering Sassolungo, one of the most iconic peaks in the region, wander through flower-filled meadows, or relax in a mountain hut with some of the best local food you'll ever taste. With rich history, charming villages, and dramatic landscapes, the Dolomites offer the perfect backdrop to your walking holiday.
Seceda: The Dolomites' most photogenic peak
Seceda, at 2,519 metres in Val Gardena, is one of the most photographed peaks in the Dolomites. This mountain in Val Gardena is famous for its dramatic ridgeline and sweeping views of the Odle Peaks.
The trails range from easy strolls to more challenging routes, all with stunning panoramas. There are plenty of mountain huts along the way where you can stop for a hearty meal (or a well-earned strudel).
The Sella Group: Panoramic views of the Dolomites
Copyright:Freddy Planinschek
The Sella Group is another highlight of the Dolomites, offering a vast plateau surrounded by peaks and passes. The highest point, Piz Boè, reaches an impressive 3,152 metres and offers some of the best panoramic views in the region.
In summer, the Sella Group is perfect for hikers and mountain bikers. The famous Sellaronda circuit is a must-do for keen adventurers, offering trails that weave through valleys and ridges with jaw-dropping scenery at every turn.
If you’re more into exploring at a slower pace, the region’s alpine meadows and crystal-clear lakes offer plenty of opportunities to soak up the mountain magic without breaking too much of a sweat.
Towns like Selva, Corvara, and Canazei are great bases for exploring the area, with welcoming hotels, delicious food, and a relaxed mountain vibe.
Favourite walk: Sass da Ciampac Circumnavigation
If you want to see the Dolomites from a completely different perspective, this walk is a must. Starting in the beautiful green meadows of Corvara, it takes you up to the rocky, moon-like landscapes of the Sass da Ciampac before leading you back down through the picture-perfect Edelweiss Valley.
This 13km circular route is a moderate-to-challenging hike with an ascent of 950 metres. It takes about 5 hours and 30 minutes to complete, but every step is worth it. You’ll see the mighty Sella Group up close, as well as the stunning Mittag Valley, Puez Group, and Lagazuoi.
Ready to explore the Dolomites? With its dramatic peaks, charming alpine villages, and unforgettable trails, this UNESCO-listed region is a must-visit for any mountain lover.
Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau: Peaks above the rest
The Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau are some of the most famous mountains in the Swiss Alps, each with its own character in the Berner Oberland.
Jungfrau, the tallest at 4,158 metres, stands out as the most impressive. Its height offers stunning views for those who enjoy high-altitude hikes. Mönch, positioned between Jungfrau and Eiger, is smaller but still a key part of the landscape.
The Eiger is known for its steep North Face, a challenge for climbers, but its surrounding trails are great for walkers too, with plenty of routes offering spectacular views of the mountain.
These peaks are a perfect example of the Swiss Alps, offering something for both climbers and walkers who want to experience the beauty of the mountains.
Grindelwald: Best for Eiger views
For the best views of the Eiger, look no further than Grindelwald. This charming village sits beneath the imposing North Face, offering jaw-dropping vistas and endless opportunities for walking adventures. Here, gondolas and mountain trains make it easy to reach impressive heights, where plenty of scenic trails await.
Wengen is the perfect base for exploring Jungfrau
Wengen, a charming car-free village at the foot of Jungfrau, is the perfect base for mountain adventures. With its sunny plateau location and stunning views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau, it’s an excellent starting point for hiking, and mountain tours.
Wengen is part of the Jungfrau region, where over 500km of trails wind through alpine meadows and forests. One of the most famous routes is the Eiger Trail, which takes hikers along the base of the legendary Eiger north face.
You can also explore nearby Lauterbrunnen valley, visit traditional mountain villages like Mürren, or head to Interlaken to admire its turquoise lakes.
Favourite walk: Eiger Trail to Alpiglen
The Eiger Trail takes you along the base of the Eiger’s north face, offering incredible photo opportunities. This moderate to challenging hike covers 6.1 kilometres, with a 78-metre ascent and 779-metre descent.
Expect around two hours of walking through alpine meadows and rocky paths. The trail gives you the chance to experience some of the most dramatic landscapes in the Alps.
Mont Blanc: The icon of the Alps
At 4,809 metres, Mont Blanc is the highest peak in Western Europe, standing proudly between France, Italy, and Switzerland. This towering giant is one of the most iconic mountains in Europe, attracting climbers and hikers from across the world.
Located near Chamonix in the French alps, Mont Blanc is surrounded by picturesque villages and spectacular alpine scenery. Walk along its legendary trails and enjoy some of Europe’s most unforgettable views.
Escape to the peaks in Chamonix
Outdoor lovers will love Chamonix. It has a huge network of walking trails suitable for all levels. One of the best walks is the Lac Blanc trail, a well-marked route that rewards walkers with breathtaking views of Mont Blanc reflected in crystal-clear waters.
For those looking to take in the scenery without a strenuous climb, the Aiguille du Midi cable car is a must. It whisks you up to 3,842 metres, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the French, Swiss, and Italian Alps.
Favourite walk: Les Praz to Lac Blanc
One of our favourite walks in the Mont Blanc region is the trail from Les Praz to Lac Blanc. This moderate walk, part of the Tour du Mont Blanc, is around 6.1 kilometres long and takes approximately three hours to complete.
It offers incredible views over the Chamonix Aiguilles, Les Drus, and La Verte. Taking the Flégère cable car to begin your climb, you'll pass a mountain refuge where you can stop for refreshments before reaching the stunning Lac Blanc, where breath-taking vistas of the Mont Blanc Massif await.
Matterhorn: Switzerland’s iconic, towering peak
The Matterhorn is one of the most recognisable mountains in the world. Sitting on the border between Switzerland and Italy, this 4,478-metre giant dominates the skyline above Zermatt. It’s a true icon of the Alps, drawing hikers, climbers, and photographers from around the globe.
For the best views, take the cogwheel train to Gornergrat or ride Europe’s highest cable car to Klein Matterhorn (Matterhorn Glacier Paradise) at 3,883 metres. Here, you’ll find snow year-round, a restaurant with panoramic views, an Ice Palace carved into the glacier, and a cinema showcasing Zermatt’s mountaineering history.
Head to Zermatt for iconic mountain views
Zermatt offers a wide range of activities, from hiking and climbing to cycling, all set against the backdrop of the iconic Matterhorn. It’s the perfect place to enjoy spectacular mountain views.
The town is car-free, making it great for strolling through its charming streets, relaxing in local cafés, and taking in the stunning alpine scenery. For those looking for more action, Zermatt has plenty to offer, including cycling, climbing, via ferrata routes, and skiing on the glaciers - all in one of the most beautiful alpine regions.
Favourite walk: Täschalp – Sunnegga
The Täschalp to Sunnegga guided walk is a beautiful moderate hike through forests, alpine meadows, and breathtaking views of the Matterhorn. Along the way, you might spot wildlife like marmots and mountain goats. It all ends with a funicular ride back to Zermatt, and is a wonderful way to explore the area’s natural beauty.
Which mountain will you explore first? Whether you’re dreaming of the rugged Dolomites, the towering Mont Blanc, or the legendary Matterhorn, Europe’s mountains are waiting for you to discover them.
Guided walks in selected resorts
Looking for a more guided experience? Our easy walking holidays also offer guided walks in selected resorts.
You’ll get to join up to two walks per week with a professional mountain guide who will share their expertise and knowledge of the area.
In addition to the guided walks, you’ll receive expert advice and recommended walks from your Destination Expert.
They’ll provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your time on holiday, including professional recommendations on activities to partake in at your resort. So you can fully immerse yourself in the culture and enjoy all the local sights, sounds and flavours.
All you need is your walking shoes and a love for the great outdoors. We’ll take care of the rest.
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