Giant
Minstrel
Perhaps he hears about a mysterious treasure buried in the mountains. He sees it as a way to restore the wealth and power to his family. He may discover a great tomb, but he then finds the treasure is the girl not the coffin.
Or his family could have hidden many possessions (rare art, jewels, etc) in the mountains when they were overthrown. Now that enough time has passed, his family wants him to go there and retrieve them. Since he has never been to the mountains, and has only a map and a few clues, his journey could take him to almost anywhere.
I like the general idea of your plot. I think there are several good ways to get him started on his journey.
Or his family could have hidden many possessions (rare art, jewels, etc) in the mountains when they were overthrown. Now that enough time has passed, his family wants him to go there and retrieve them. Since he has never been to the mountains, and has only a map and a few clues, his journey could take him to almost anywhere.
I like the general idea of your plot. I think there are several good ways to get him started on his journey.