Lone mountains are mountains, tall hills, or high rock structures that stand alone unattached to a mountain range above a flat and lower landscape. They are typically formed because the rock of the inselberg is resistant to erosion which lowers the height of the surrounding valley or plains. Lone mountains are common elements in fictional worlds, and are often sites where castles, temples, mines, or god domains are located. There may be legends, folklore, or religious mythology surrounding the lone mountain. They may be volcanoes. They are home to spirits, hermits, and hikers.