Allardyce Range

The Allardyce Range is the principal mountain chain running across South Georgia island in the South Atlantic Ocean; its highest summit is Mount Paget at 2,934 metres. The range forms the island’s central high ground and is the dominant topographic feature.

The range contains numerous sharp peaks and ridges, many exceeding 2,000 metres, and a dense network of outlet glaciers that flow to surrounding fjords. It is a focus for mountaineering, glaciological research and wildlife observation from ships and landings.

The mountains are the product of long-term tectonic uplift and repeated glaciation during the Quaternary; they have not been modified by permanent human settlement and are primarily known through polar exploration and scientific surveys. Human activity has been limited to scientific camps and expedition landings.

Stretching roughly east-west across the centre of South Georgia island, the range lies in the subantarctic South Atlantic; the nearest permanent research settlements are at King Edward Point and Grytviken on the island’s coast.

• Prominence and glaciation: Widely regarded as the island's principal mountain chain, with multiple summits exceeding 2,000 metres and extensive permanent ice cover.
• Best time to visit: Most access is by expedition ship during the austral summer months when sea and weather conditions are least severe.

What to See #

• Mount Paget: At 2,934 metres it is the highest peak of the range and of South Georgia; it dominates the island's central spine and is the principal objective for mountaineers on South Georgia.
• Glaciated peaks and outlet glaciers: A broad band of glaciated peaks and outlet glaciers that descend from the central crest to the island's fjords and bays, often reaching tidewater and shaping steep glacial valleys.