There is an abundance of beautiful mountains to climb in Europe. So if you’re planning to go on a hike, you’re sure to find a really good mountain to summit–even as a beginner!
Basically, mountaineering is a good sport for anyone with decent fitness. However, if you are a new climber, it would be ideal to first take less challenging routes. Good news is, there are lots of easy mountains to climb in Europe that will still treat you to the most scenic views!
10 Easy Mountains to Climb in Europe
Looking for the best mountains to climb in Europe when you’re a beginner? Here’s a list that features less challenging mountains that don’t require professional hiking skills. Let’s start off from the lowest to the highest altitudes!
1. Tryfan
Where: Snowdonia, Wales
Altitude: 3008 feet
One of the most popular mountains in the United Kingdom, Tryfan allows an easy climb. It is the closest mountain to the road. Car parks and lay-bys run along the foot of its peak where you may start your route.
2. Ben Nevis
Where: Scotland
Altitude: 4,400 feet
Known as the highest mountain in the United Kingdom, Ben Nevis used to be an active volcano. Now it’s a favourite among beginners and professionals. It has a variety of trails and takes 4 to 6 hours to reach its summit.
3. Kebnekaise
Where: Scandinavian Mountains, northern Sweden
Altitude: 6882 ft
If you’re in search of a stunning place for your first mountain climb in Europe, Kebnekaise won’t fail you.The isolated icy scenery around the summit would be enough to inspire you. Start at the Kebnekaise Fjällstation for a 9 to 12 hrs climb to the peak.
4. Mount Triglav
Where: Julian Alps, Slovenia
Altitude: 9396.325
The legendary 1,000m-high, 4,000m-wide limestone wall on the North Face has made this mountain famous among climbers. Known as Slovenia’s tallest summit, it features routes for beginners and experts. The Krma Valley is its easiest route while the Vrata Valley is the toughest to climb.
Did You Know: “One is not a true Slovenian until he or she climbs mount Triglav” is a popular saying among Slovenian locals.
5. Tofana di Rozes
Where: Italy
Altitude: 10,581 feet
One of the highest peaks of Tofane, Tofana di Rozes offers not just a great mountain hiking experience, but an easy to conquer rock climbing feat. Perfect for beginners as it can easily be done without serious expertise and knowledge on the use of rock climbing gears.
6. Aiguille du Tour
Where: Border of Switzerland and France
Altitude: 11,610 FT
Looking to get some real alpine experience? Even novice mountaineers can prove that this is one of the easiest mountains to climb in Europe. In fact, it has become a popular destination for beginners. It offers two main straightforward routes to the summit which start by ascending towards the mountain’s glacier onboard a chairlift.
7. Allalinhorn
Where: Switzerland
Altitude: 13,212 feet
Situated near Breithorn, the Allalinhorn has the reputation as among the easiest mountains to climb in the Swiss Alps. A lift will take you to Mittelallalin which will only require a 500 vertical meters ascend to reach the peak. It also boasts of great views from the top.
8. Gran Paradiso
Where: Italy
Altitude: 13,323 feet
Tucked between the Aosta and Piedmont Valleys, it is the highest mountain that can be found solely in Italy. It offers a classic alpine ascent which starts with a hike from Pont. Upon reaching the top, you’ll be treated to incredible views of the national park that surrounds it.Gran Paradiso is also used as a starting point for those who want to warm-up before climbing Mont Blanc.
9. Bishorn
Where: Pennine Alps, Switzerland
Altitude: 13,625 feet
Bishorn can be found in one of the northernmost 4,000-meter peaks in the Alps. It has a reputation as one of the easy mountains to climb in Europe which made it popular for beginners. The difficult part of the climb is considered as the ascent up the 1,500 meter stone steps. However, the incredible panoramic views from the top makes up for everything!
Did You Know: The Alps is a popular hub for outdoor sports like skiing and mountaineering. Each year, it draws more than 120 million visitors each year.
10. Breithorn
Where: Switzerland
Altitude: 13,665 feet
Many consider Breithorn as the easiest peaks to climb in Switzerland. It is also the most popular! In fact, it is the most climbed 4,000 meter peak in the Alps. The Klein Matterhorn cable car is used to take the climbers 300 meters below the summit. From there, hikers have to endure snow climbing. Ice axes and crampons would be handy from this point.
Basic Rules for Choosing a Hiking Route for Beginners
Aside from knowing some of the easy mountains to climb in Europe, it’s also important to search the right hiking route that fits your skills.
Below are some of the basic rules to consider to find the route that’s perfect for beginners.
- Assess your health and physical condition. This is essential to ensure that your fitness level will not be a hindrance for you to enjoy and complete the climb.
- Consider the time you have. You have to know how long it will take to complete a hike.
- Check the elevation gain. This gives an overview of how steep the climb will be. Remember that for every 1,000 feet of elevation, an hour is added to your climb.
- Be mindful of the weather. Check if trails are available on your planned date to hike. This will also guide you on what to pack and what to wear for the climb. For beginners, summer is the best month as the weather is generally calm.
Know the start and end points. You’ll need to plan your logistics properly. It would be ideal to have shuttle cars available at the start and end points of the hike.
ALSO READ: TOP 7 LEAST CROWDED EUROPEAN CITIES TO VISIT DURING SUMMER
Tackle your first ascent with the above tips in mind. Going for the easy mountains to climb in Europe is just as exciting as conquering the highest peaks. Enjoy the experience, the people and the magnificent works of nature around you!
Etias Visa Schengen can assist you in planning the necessary requirements when preparing for a trip to Europe. Starting 2021, ETIAS visa will be required for those who will travel Europe and the Schengen area. Contact us so we can help you.
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