A new eye-tracking study reveals the 10 most beautiful mountain landscapes in the world, ranking peaks that capture attention fastest and hold it the longest.
Mountains have always sparked wanderlust—but have you ever wondered why some peaks stop you mid-scroll while others barely register? A new scientific study suggests it’s not just imagination. Using advanced eye-tracking technology, researchers have identified which mountain landscapes grab human attention the quickest—and keep our eyes locked the longest. Conducted by Irish travel insurance firm JustCover, the study analysed images of 56 mountain ranges across the world. Participants viewed photographs while eye-tracking software measured how fast their gaze was drawn in and how long it lingered. These insights were combined into a weighted score to rank the planet’s most visually captivating mountains. The results show North America leading the list, with the United States featuring prominently, while Ireland emerged as an unexpected standout. From towering alpine giants to dramatic coastal cliffs, here are the top 10 most beautiful mountain landscapes in the world—according to science.
1. Canadian Rockies, Canada
Eye-Catching Score: 99.3/100
Taking the top spot with a near-perfect score, the Canadian Rockies emerged as the most visually captivating mountains globally. The view from Lake Louise—with its turquoise waters, dense forests, and snow-dusted peaks—proved especially irresistible. Participants spent more time looking at this landscape than any other in the study, accounting for 34 percent of total viewing time. Strict conservation measures across Banff and Jasper National Parks help preserve the region’s pristine beauty, making it a benchmark for natural landscapes worldwide.
2. El Capitan, United States
Eye-Catching Score: 84.9/100
Rising dramatically from Yosemite National Park, El Capitan secured second place. The sheer granite monolith is famous among elite rock climbers, but its visual appeal extends well beyond the climbing community. The Valley View area, overlooking the Merced River with El Capitan and Bridalveil Fall in frame, held viewers’ attention for over three seconds—one of the longest gaze times recorded in the study.
3. Torres del Paine, Chile
Eye-Catching Score: 83.2/100
Chile’s Torres del Paine National Park is Patagonia at its most dramatic. Towering granite spires, glacier-fed lakes, and open plains combine to create a landscape that is both raw and accessible. Viewpoints like Lake Pehoé offer high-impact views without demanding strenuous treks, making Torres del Paine one of South America’s most rewarding mountain destinations for casual travellers.
4. Slieve League, Ireland
Eye-Catching Score: 82.9/100
Europe’s highest-ranked entry, Slieve League in County Donegal, captured attention faster than any other mountain in the study—just 1.41 seconds to first fixation. These sea cliffs rise nearly 600 metres above the Atlantic Ocean, offering sweeping coastal views across Donegal Bay. On clear days, visitors can even spot Ben Bulben, another Irish peak featured in the wider rankings.
5. Errigal Mountain, Ireland
Eye-Catching Score: 75.8/100
Another Irish entry, Errigal Mountain, stands at 751 metres and is the tallest peak in the Derryveagh range. Its sharply defined cone shape makes it instantly recognisable, particularly when snow caps the summit in winter. Part of the Seven Sisters mountain group, Errigal draws hikers and photographers year-round, though quieter weekday visits offer a more peaceful experience.
6. Maroon Bells, United States
Eye-Catching Score: 75.1/100
Located near Aspen, Colorado, the Maroon Bells—Maroon Peak and North Maroon Peak—are among the most photographed mountains in North America. The reflection of the twin peaks in Maroon Lake, framed by aspen forests and seasonal colour changes, makes this landscape especially compelling. Access is regulated, with shuttle reservations required during peak months to protect the area.
7. Dolomites, Italy
Eye-Catching Score: 74.7/100
Italy’s Dolomites remain one of Europe’s most recognisable mountain ranges. Views from Val di Funes, where rolling green meadows meet jagged limestone peaks, held viewers’ attention for more than 2.6 seconds on average. Rising popularity has brought crowds, but visiting outside peak summer months still delivers uninterrupted views and quieter trails.
8. Quiraing, Scotland, United Kingdom
Eye-Catching Score: 72.7/100
Part of the Trotternish Ridge on the Isle of Skye, the Quiraing is a dramatic landslip landscape defined by cliffs, pinnacles, and sweeping curves. The terrain is particularly striking at sunrise and sunset. While accessible by car, the narrow and winding approach roads mean advance planning is essential.
9. Kirkjufell, Iceland
Eye-Catching Score: 68.6/100
One of Iceland’s most photographed peaks, Kirkjufell is instantly recognisable thanks to the nearby Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall. Seasonal changes dramatically alter the landscape—from lush green summers to snow-covered winters—while the mountain’s remote location makes it a popular spot for Northern Lights sightings.
10. Mount Moran, United States
Eye-Catching Score: 68.4/100
Completing the top 10 is Mount Moran in Wyoming’s Grand Teton National Park, best viewed from Oxbow Bend. The mountain’s reflection in the Snake River on calm days creates one of the park’s most iconic scenes. The area is also known for wildlife sightings, including moose, otters, and birds, making it a favourite among nature photographers.
