6 countries with the most spectacular highlands

Mountain ranges have been capturing the imaginations of poets, writers and painters for as long as people have stood in their imposing shadows. They’re illusive and unconquerable, but therein lies the appeal. Whether it’s the romanticism of the Scottish Highlands to the history of the Appalachian Trail, here are some of the world’s most spectacular highlands that will capture your imagination and inspire you to visit. 

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1. Ireland

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A country of mountainous landscapes, more than 4,000 castles and lush green valleys, Ireland is home to clusters of highlands and hilly terrain. The highland landscapes not only make a visual impact, but they’ve also played a part in shaping the history of the country. The scattered nature of the terrain meant that the country remained divided both physically and culturally. 

2. Scotland

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The country that first comes to mind when it comes to spectacular highlands would have to be Scotland. The Scottish Highlands can be found in the north of the country and surrounds the mysterious and much-loved Loch-Ness, known for the mythical creature, Nessie, supposedly lurking in the murky depths. The Scottish Highlands are often considered romantic, and after one look at them it’s easy to understand why! But keep your eyes peeled if you do manage to pay a visit because, due to the misty weather here, sometimes the mountains can be covered in a sheet of white. One minute the view is spectacular, the next, not so much. 

3. Tibet

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Known as the ‘roof of the world’, the Tibetan Plateau covers more land than all of Western Europe and is the highest plateau in the world, elevating to more than 16,000ft. This is also where the Himalayas are located, where there are 50 peaks that tower more than 7,000m above sea level, including Mount Everest, which stands at a stunning 8,848m.

4. Ethiopia

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Extending along the horn of Northeast Africa, the Ethiopian Highlands cover much of Ethiopia and the neighbouring country of Eritrea. The highest peak in Ethiopia, Mount Ras Dejen, can be found in the Western Highlands and towers 4,620m. Now a fertile agricultural region, the Ethiopian Highlands first began to form more than 75 million years ago.

5. Kenya

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Kenya’s Central Highlands hold cultural significance to the Kikuyu people, the largest ethnic tribe in the country. But the region once became settled by Europeans and white immigrants during British colonialism, which led to the highlands being called the White Highlands, due to the influx of white settlers. Now there are several townships throughout the highlands, while the volcanic soils make for fertile lands and agricultural opportunities. With elevations that vary between 7,000 and 9,000ft, the highlands are home to rich birdlife. Kenya has more than 1,000 species of bird recorded in the country.

6. Canada/USA

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Canada might be known for its Rocky Mountains but the Appalachian Mountains are part of the oldest highland region in North America. It winds its way down through Quebec down to Newfoundland and throughout 14 states in the United States of America. The tallest range is more than 2,000m and the wildlife you’re likely to encounter along the range include deer, beavers, porcupines and bears. This is also home to the world famous Appalachian trail, which attracts more than two to three million hikers each year, although only around 12,000 people have done the 3,500km trek in its entirety.