Mountain Climbing and Rock Climbing in Europe
Europe is scattered with mountain ranges offering climbers the chance to experience a number of different climbs. Regardless of your level of experience, you will find something to suit your needs.
If you would like to take on something challenging, you could try ice climbing on Ben Nevis, or climbing to the peak of Mount Vesuvius. However, if you would like something easier, Mount Snowdon in Wales has some easier trails and footpaths as do the Alps.
Mount Snowdon, Wales: Snowdon is the highest mountain in Wales and in fact the highest mountain in the UK, south of Scotland. It is situated in Snowdonia National Park and the summit is 3560 feet above sea level. It is very popular with climbers of all levels, but especially novice climbers looking to practice.
Mount Vesuvius, Italy: Vesuvius is actually an active volcano, the only volcano to erupt in Europe within the last 100 years. However, it is currently not erupting and available to climb. It is possible to either climb the entire volcano or drive to within 200 meters from the summit from where you can only go on foot.
Ben Nevis, Scotland: Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in the UK and therefore very popular with all climbers. It is located in the Grampian mountain range in Lochaber. The main attractions for climbers are the 700 meter high cliffs of the north face, some of the highest cliffs in Britain. It is here where you can experience classic scrambles of all difficulties as well as ice climbing.
The Alps, Austria, Slovenia, Italy, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Germany and France: The Alps are one of the most popular mountain ranges in Europe. They stretch all the way from Austria and Slovenia, through Italy, Switzerland, Liechtenstein and Germany to France. The highest mountain is Mont Blanc, on the Italian-French border, standing at 4,808 meters (15,774ft). They are very popular with climbers during the summer months and skiers during the winter months. The lower areas of the Alps are scattered with small villages and roads, but as you get further up, the only way to get up is on foot.
Mount Olympus, Greece: Mount Olympus is famed in Greek mythology for being home to the 12 Olympians and is literally steeped in history. Not only will this mountain offer a challenging climb, you will also get the chance to learn more about this great age in Greek history. The mountain is over 9,500 feet tall and the tallest in Greece so it attracts international and local climbers.
Pyrenees, France and Spain: This mountain range forms a natural border between France and Spain with Andorra caught in between. There are three footpaths which run the entire length of the mountain as well as a number of marked and unmarked trails.
Vlašić, Bosnia : This stunning mountain is located in the very heart of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The peak is known as Paljenik and lies 1,943 meters above sea level. There are many hiking trails and a wide variety of flora and fauna to view as you make you way to the top.
Balkan Mountains, Bulgaria and Serbia: The Balkan mountain range runs along the border of Bulgaria and Serbia and ends in the Black Sea. The highest peaks and most popular climbs can be found in Bulgaria.
Scandinavian Mountains, Norway, Sweden and Finland: These mountains can be found in the Scandinavian Peninsula and while none of the mountains are very tall, they are very steep, making for some tricky climbs. They are popular with experienced climbers although there are paths which are suitable for beginners.
Montserrat, Spain: Montserrat is very close to Barcelona and is home to a Benedictine abbey, Santa Maria de Montserrat, which houses the Virgin of Montserrat sanctuary. Many people climb this mountain to reach the abbey although others climb for the nature and adrenalin rush. There are stunning vistas across Barcelona from viewpoints throughout the mountain.