Alpine mountains or alps in Europe. Alpine mountains

The Alps are the highest mountains in Western Europe. They began to form 300 million years ago. Today the Alps are a favorite place for climbers, skiers and tourists from all over the world. This was largely due to the unique geographical position of the mountains. About where the Alps are located, we will tell in this article.

Features of the geographical position of the Alps

The Alpine mountain system is spread over the territory of eight European countries at once: Switzerland, France, Italy, Germany, Monaco, Austria, Slovenia and Liechtenstein. The Alps are a very complex system of massifs and ridges, which stretches from the Middle Danubian Plain to the Ligurian Sea. The total length of the Alpine mountain system is 1200 km. The highest point of the Alps is Mont Blanc, its height is 4810 m.

One of the geographical features of the Alpine mountain system is that in the valley of the river Rhine it is divided into the Western and Eastern Alps. At the same time, the height of the Western Alps significantly exceeds the Eastern ones.

Throughout the Alpine mountain system, you can find not only a huge number of comfortable ski slopes, but also lakes with crystal clear water, small villages and historical sights. In addition, there are more than 1,200 glaciers in the Alps, with a total area of about 4,000 km. This allows you to open the ski season in many regions in October. In summer, a unique microclimate reigns, in which low humidity, comfortable temperature and healing mountain air allow you to improve your health and just have a good time.

Alps or Alpine mountains- the highest and longest mountain range among the systems that lie entirely in Europe.

The snowy mountain range of the Alps forms a massive barrier between northern and southern Europe.

Alpine countries

Some of the highest peaks of the Alps are in Germany, France and Italy, but most of them are within the three Alpine countries: Switzerland, Liechtenstein and Austria. The ice and rocks of the peaks are replaced by green alpine pastures, colored in summer with bright herbs. They descend to forested valleys and deep lakes.

The melting snows of the Alps feed the largest rivers in Western Europe: the Rhine, the Rhone, the Po and the Inn-Danube system.

Switzerland is a small country divided into cantons. Four languages can be heard here: French, German, Italian and English. Although Switzerland has few natural resources other than hydropower, it has become a wealthy country thanks to the production of watches and precision instruments. It is the center of banking and tourism. Impressive mountain landscapes with lakes, waterfalls and colorful villages attract athletes in winter and vacationers in summer. Switzerland is a neutral country that has not taken part in European wars since 1815.

The capital, Geneva, is the headquarters of many international organizations, including the International Red Cross and the World Health Organization.

East of Switzerland is Liechtenstein- a tiny German-speaking state that was able to maintain independence from larger neighbors. It is a monarchy, but the laws are made by an elected government. It has close ties to Switzerland and uses the Swiss franc as its currency.

Passes and tunnels in the Alps

Crossing the Alps has always been very problematic and dangerous.

Now the roads to the south pass through deep tunnels cut into the rocks.

Simplon Tunnel between Switzerland and Italy, the world's longest railway tunnel was opened in 1922. Its length is 19.8 km.
Saint Gotthard Tunnel(16.4 km long), built in 1980, holds the record for the longest road tunnel.

The majestic mountain range in Europe will offer stunning outdoor moments and breathtaking panoramic views. Imagine emerald alpine lakes, idyllic villages and valleys that provide Swiss quality service and amenities. We will show you the most beautiful places in the Alps. And each of these idyllic alpine places is a must-see.

Thermal Spa Bad Gastein, Austria

Fine treatment centers are based in the spa town of Gastein, which is located in the Austrian Alps. It is also a popular ski area. Baths and pools use fresh water from hot springs located in the mountains. There is excellent service, beautiful nature and relaxing spa treatments.

Photo: Yisong Yue

Photo: Robert Dohler

Photo: Thomas Wenger (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/)

Stelvio Pass, Italy

The second of the highest passes in the Alps is an exceptionally picturesque place. The road connects the Stelvio in South Tyrol with Bormio. The pass was built during the time of the Austrian Empire, in the 1820s, and has hardly changed since then. Stelvio is a traditional Tyrolean region. Here you can visit quiet, picturesque alpine villages. There are also ski resorts.
The historic road is one of the most famous not only in the Alps, but also in the world. From here you have a great view, and the classic winding route is very popular with extreme drivers. The British show "Top Gear" called it the greatest road in the world.

Photo: jockrutherford (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/)

Photo: Iain Cameron (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/)

Gran Paradiso National Park, Italy

The stunning park is named after the Gran Paradiso mountain in the Alps, in northwestern Italy. The park impresses with its landscape, valleys, glaciers and alpine meadows. Endangered species of animals and birds live here. This is an alpine mountain goat, chamois, eagle owl and many others. Small villages are scattered in the park.
Many people come here to climb the mountains and enjoy the magnificent views. In addition, you can watch wild animals and birds here. The wildlife is so rich that it doesn't take much effort to track down the "locals".

Photo: Fulvio Spada (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/)

Photo: Soumei Baba (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/)

Aiguille du Midi, Chamonix, France

Another stunning place to visit is the Mont Blanc region. The height of the peak of the Aiguille du Midi is 3842 meters. When viewed from Chamonix, at noon the sun is directly above this peak. The Aiguille du Midi cable cars will take you to a height of 3800 meters. From here, from the observation decks, unforgettable views of the surroundings open up. A glass platform was installed here last year. And although the glass panels are of solid thickness, only the brave ones visit it.

A wonderful place to visit in Chamonix. This is the highest attraction in Europe. Chamonix is a truly classic city with an alpine landscape that tourists love so much.

Dam on Lake Sylvenstein, Upper Bavaria, Germany

The artificial lake fits into the Alpine landscape and is one of the most interesting places in the Isar valley. Located at an altitude of 750 meters in the Karwendel Alps, the lake is replenished by the waters of the Isar River. It is surrounded by hiking trails, which are very fond of tourists. And the dam is a picturesque feature. Driving along it, you can admire the fabulous surroundings.

Tourists come here to go hiking, climbing or swimming in the lake. Popular cycle track Bavaria Tirolensis on the south coast it links Bavaria and the Tyrolean Alps. This idyllic place is very popular with photographers.

Photo: Polybert49 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/)

Photo: Sascha Sormann

Photo: FHgitarre (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/)

Paragliding school in France

The paragliding school accepts beginners and young people. In winter it is a ski resort, but in summer it is a paradise for paragliders. Flying in the Alps - the largest mountain range in Europe - is really something incredible.

Photo: Ludovic Lubeigt (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/)

Photo: SNappa2006 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/)

Photo: Stefan Schmitz (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/2.0/)

Brienz-Rothorn Rack Railway, Switzerland

The scenic area opens up from a train making a slow ascent to the Brienz-Rothorn mountain in the Emmental Alps. The highest point of the railway is located at an impressive height - 2244 meters. The drive passes through a tunnel carved into the rock and makes spectacular loops. Those who are nervous about heights - challenge yourself, you will be delighted!
The journey to the top takes about an hour. There you will be met by restaurants and guest houses, where everyone is given a warm welcome. During the walk you can admire the surroundings. There is a road between stations.

Photo: Martin Abeglen (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/)

Stanserhorn, Switzerland

The height of the "most friendly mountain" is 1898 meters. It is accessible to everyone, therefore it is a popular place among tourists. The summit can be reached by cable car or hiking trails. Both methods provide breathtaking panoramic views of the mountains and valleys.
The peak is the best point from which breathtaking views of the surroundings open up. Hiking trails provide a great opportunity to spend a pleasant day outdoors.

Photo: Konrad Summers (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/)

Source: placestoseeinyourlifetime.com

Alps from A to Z for tourists and skiers. Maps, countries, resorts and hotels for skiing and mountain holidays.

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The snowy edge of the boots of the Apennine boot, the Alps is the highest mountain system in Western Europe, to the picturesque peaks of which eight countries have access at once: France, Italy, Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Liechtenstein, Slovenia and Monaco. The 1,200-kilometer stretch of the Alpine mountain range is more than enough of comfortable slopes, crystal clear lakes, idyllic villages and historical sights. So, there is nothing surprising in the fact that the Alpine countries unanimously derive the maximum benefit from these favorable geographical conditions: in winter, the region is deservedly considered the number one destination for ski tourism, and in summer it does not lag behind in terms of medical, health and eco-tours.

The Alps serve as the climatic boundary of Europe: to the north and west of them are territories with a temperate climate, and to the south - the blessed Mediterranean subtropics.

Geographically, the Alpine mountain system is divided into the Eastern and Western Alps, which are separated by the Rhine River Valley, which in turn is located between Lake Como and Lake Constance. The Western Alps can boast of considerable heights (including the highest peak - Mont Blanc), while the Eastern Alps are lower, with gentle slopes and wide picturesque valleys. Among other things, the Alps are the most "icy" mountains in Europe: there are more than 1,200 glaciers with a total area of more than 4,000 km! Thanks to them, the skiing season in many regions begins already in early November - the cooling "substrate" contributes to the rapid formation of snow cover and its good stability throughout the winter, until the end of March.

The regions of the Alps are usually named after a nearby city or geographical feature: Ligurian, Provencal, Bernese, Zillertal, etc.

There is no need to talk at length about the merits of skiing on the slopes of the Alps: winter Italy, France and Switzerland have long been associated primarily with skis, lifts and fan parks. For example, in France alone there are more than 100 ski resorts for every taste, budget and level of skiing, while being equipped with the most modern equipment and offering ample opportunities for accommodation - from economy class chalets to luxury hotels. In addition, a large number of excursion programs and après-ski entertainment will make your vacation varied and informative.

An exceptionally pleasant alpine ski bonus is the combination of ski areas into one huge “around the world” - moving from lift to lift, you can practically ski around all the Alps (fortunately, a single visa regime allows).

It is impossible not to say about the universality of the Alps as a tourist destination: "snowless" trips to the mountains are no less popular among those who understand than ski voyages. In summer, a unique microclimate reigns here: low humidity and comfortable air temperature without strong night drops, the healing air of the peaks is one of the leading healing factors for those who come to the Alps to improve their health, the presence of mineral springs and the amazing beauty of glacial lakes, the water in which although cool for swimming, it is exceptionally tasty and healthy.

And finally, we will mention the increasing accessibility of the Alps for the average tourist. With a reasonable approach to business, you can come here with almost any budget - you just need to choose the right tour and not aim at expensive (and often unnecessary) services.

The Alps are one of the major international centers of tourism, mountaineering and skiing. The mountains stretch for more than 1000 kilometers, the most famous of all the peaks in the world. The Alps are located on the territory of eight countries. They are divided into three zones:

Western.

Central.

Oriental.

The western part belongs to the French Alps and has a length of 333 km. This part of the Alps is known for being the Mont Blanc mountain. It is considered the highest in the Alps and has a height of 4810 meters.

The central part is located in Switzerland, and the eastern in. The third zone of the Alps is considered the most popular among tourists. Since the famous mountain campaigns of Hannibal and Suvorov are located there. Also Alpine countries are:

Slovenia.

Liechtenstein.

The age of the cold kingdom of mountains is measured in hundreds of millions of years. The microclimate of the Alpine regions depends on:

Provisions.
Wind directions.

The great majority of tourists come here because of the ski resorts. Winter brings mostly snowfalls and low temperatures. In the summer in the Alps, there are quite hot days. The resorts in summer are popular with cyclists, couple gliders, climbers. These mountains are excellent in any guise and will not leave anyone who wishes to visit them indifferent.

The best resorts in the Alps

Austrian winter skiing resort, the best choice for beginners. There are also resorts designed for children skiing with safe parks. The most famous ski resorts in the country are the Tyrol region.

Mayrhofen

Mayrhofen is a resort, mostly a popular holiday destination. Fifty kilometers from Tyrol, is one of the most elite resorts in the Alps - Kitzbühel. It is here that the most impressive stage of the Alpine Skiing World Cup takes place every year. In summer, an international tennis tournament is held here.

Many beautiful resorts are located in the south of Austria - Carinthia. Mostly in demand, the Lavantal resort and no less popular is Bad Kleinkirhain. Sunny and picturesque places with warm, thermal pools are suitable for a great holiday with children.

Symbol - mountain "Momblant" - 4810 meters. The mountain is located on the border with Italy. At the foot of Mont Blanc are the most elegant and sophisticated resorts in France.

megeve

Megeve is a beautiful and aristocratic fashionable resort. The beautiful, fabulous atmosphere of the town with medieval houses is suitable for connoisseurs of luxury. Chamonix is perhaps the most famous resort city in France, which is over two hundred years old. This resort is suitable for both children who have skied for the first time and ski professionals.

Courchevel

Courchevel is a luxury resort for wealthy guests. The best, well-groomed slopes for skiing, hotels with excellent service of the highest level.

The scenic beauty of the local nature and excursions are worth visiting the resorts of Switzerland. In addition, Switzerland now and then hosts personalized guests: millionaires, show business stars, models, actors, which becomes a decisive factor for many when choosing a resort.

Zermat

Zermat - the resort is located in the south of the country near the Matterhorn mountain. There is no place for beginners in skiing, the resort is designed for professionals. Terraces and steep slopes are mainly for extreme and expert skiing.

St. Moritz

St. Moritz - rest here will satisfy even the most demanding tourist and athlete of any level. One of the very expensive and prestigious resorts in the country.

Davos

Davos - the resort is medical with prestigious world-class clinics. Davos is one of the best places for snowboarders. Skiers of all levels will feel comfortable here.

Bavaria

The best resorts of the country are located in the region - Bavaria. In comparison, for example, with Switzerland, German resorts differ mainly in affordable prices. It is also a holiday for tourists, families and beginners, thanks to the many gentle slopes and easy trails.

Garmisch – Pantenkirchen

Garmisch - Pantenkirchen - the best ski resort. Impressive infrastructure of different classes, many ski schools, including those for children.

Italy is famous for its famous hospitality and beaches, and there are amazing resorts for tourists in the winter season. Ski Italian resorts have a good infrastructure, well-equipped slopes and pistes.

Cartino de Ampezzo

Cartino de Ampezzo is a UNESCO-listed alpine city, listed as a showcase of Italian fashion and tourism. Impressive landscapes, upscale hotels, great trails for both beginners and professionals, very high prices.