You need to be aware of local climate as well - its fairly common for people to look at mountains in Scotland, think they are quite low (they are) and conclude that they can't be risky or difficult. A 1000m mountain in Scotland can kill you at any time of year if you aren't prepared or don't take weather into account - you'd be insane to try it in winter conditions without preparation and appropriate skills (winter conditions being possible anywhere from October to May).

To me anything involving mountains or boats needs a fairly level headed evaluation of risks (NB that's just based on my experience and interests).

Here is a decent article on the subject: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/earth/outdoors/outdoor-activities...