This course is ideal for anyone seeking to expand their mountain knowledge and develop the skills required for confident travel through Scotland’s dramatic landscapes. Whether you're a beginner looking to enhance basic techniques or more experienced and aiming to refine advanced skills, this flexible training will cater to your individual goals.
Key Details
- Duration: 2, 3, or 4 days
- Group size: 1-5 people (additional instructor for groups over 5)
- Start time: 09:15 daily
- Finish time: 16:30–17:00 daily
- Location: Scottish Highlands
Key Skills
- Navigation techniques with map and compass
- Route planning and weather impact assessment
- Movement over varied terrains, including scree, boulders, and steep ground
- Basic rope work for safeguarding in challenging conditions
- Practical tips on equipment use, including walking poles and boots
- Scrambling techniques and abseiling basics
- Emergency planning and risk management
Example Itinerary
Day 1:
Start the day at 09:15 with a chat about your goals and expectations. Once ready, we’ll head out into the hills to explore a range of terrains. You’ll practise map and compass work while learning tips to move efficiently over scree, boulders, and slopes. Walking poles will also be covered – when to use them and when to leave them in your pack. Expect hands-on learning as we adapt to the terrain, finishing up around 16:30–17:00.
Day 2:
Meet at 09:15 to plan your route for the day, taking weather into account. Build on the navigation skills from Day 1 and prepare for “what if” scenarios. You’ll also get an introduction to basic rope work for safely handling steeper areas like ridges. Scrambling is usually included as it’s a favourite for many, but don’t worry – it’s up to you. Wrap up the day by 16:30–17:00.
Day 3 (optional):
Dive deeper into the skills we’ve covered so far. You’ll get a short weather session, learning how to interpret forecasts and their impact on planning. Steeper scrambles and more advanced rope work will be tackled today. We’ll also look at descent techniques, giving you a full range of skills to build your confidence in the mountains.
Day 4 (optional):
Today is all about putting it all together. Under your instructor’s guidance, you’ll take the lead in planning and executing a route. Navigation strategies, scrambling, and rope work will be reinforced as you take charge. This is your chance to test what you’ve learned in a supportive environment, finishing the day with a real sense of achievement.
Location
This course is held in the Scottish Highlands, home to iconic mountain ranges such as the Cairngorms, Ben Nevis area, and Glencoe.
These regions provide an inspiring setting with diverse terrains, ensuring participants encounter a wide range of challenges to hone their skills.
Prerequisites
Participants should have a reasonable level of fitness to handle long days on foot and varied mountain terrain.
No previous mountaineering experience is required for the 2-day course, though familiarity with outdoor activities will be beneficial for longer options.
Why Choose Us
The team brings years of experience in mountaineering and instruction, backed by top qualifications, including Winter Mountain Leader status and AMI membership. Courses are designed to provide not only practical skills but also confidence to apply them on your own future adventures.
Since 2003, our focus has been on delivering outdoor experiences that are as fun as they are educational. Every course is a chance to share our passion for the mountains, ensuring participants leave with both knowledge and memories to last a lifetime.