Although it’s possible to enjoy this adventure with basic fitness, a bit of preparation will go a long way in enhancing your comfort and overall experience. Building aerobic fitness, strengthening your legs, and developing mental resilience will help you get the most out of your time in the mountains. If this is your first time venturing into winter conditions, be ready for the physical demands and occasional discomfort as you adapt to the terrain and environment—but rest assured, the rewards are more than worth it.
Proper preparation and equipment are essential for your safety and comfort during this mountaineering course. Below is a comprehensive kit list to help you prepare:
+ Kit ListA medical specialist will be provided in the team / FREC 3 medic in the team / Scottish mountain rescue is some of the best in the wolrd / helicopter evac to local hospital
Please ensure that you have the correct insurance cover before departing for this trip. Your insurance must cover trekking and mountain climbing in winter up to an altitude of 1309 meters / 4,295 feet.
Embarking on a five-day mountaineering course in the stunning Scottish Highlands is an adventure that blends skill-building, physical challenge, and the beauty of Fort William's iconic landscapes. Surrounded by the towering peaks of Ben Nevis and the rugged terrain of the Highlands, this course offers the perfect setting to learn and develop essential mountaineering techniques. With its dramatic ridges, rocky slopes, and rich climbing heritage, this region has long been a training ground for mountaineers preparing for greater challenges across the globe.
This experience is about more than just learning practical skills; it’s a chance to step out of your comfort zone and connect with the wild, untamed environment around you. Over five days, you’ll gain confidence as you master techniques like scrambling, rope work, route navigation, and risk assessment. Each day offers a new adventure as you tackle rocky ridges, climb scenic summits, and hone your abilities under the guidance of experienced instructors. The camaraderie of your group, combined with the support and expertise of your guides, creates an inspiring and rewarding atmosphere to push your limits and embrace the journey. While summer mountaineering in Scotland presents its challenges from variable weather to demanding terrain, our team ensures you’re equipped with the skills and confidence to face these conditions head-on. A carefully planned itinerary allows for a balance of learning, adventure, and safety, making the experience both enjoyable and transformative.
This course is ideal for beginners taking their first steps into mountaineering or for those seeking to refine their skills in a world-class setting. Fort William, steeped in mountaineering history and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, provides the ultimate backdrop for this journey. By the end of the course, you’ll leave with not only a solid foundation of mountaineering skills but also a sense of accomplishment and a deeper connection to Scotland’s extraordinary mountains. This is more than just a course it’s an unforgettable experience that will inspire you for years to come.
Scotland’s rugged and diverse landscapes make it the perfect training ground for learning summer mountaineering skills. The Highlands, with their dramatic ridges, rocky summits, and sweeping valleys, offer a unique combination of challenges and beauty. From navigating exposed ridges to scrambling on varied terrain, Scotland provides an unparalleled environment to develop your confidence and techniques. Beyond the physical terrain, the region’s rich mountaineering history and culture add an inspiring backdrop to your learning journey. With unpredictable weather and ever-changing conditions, training in Scotland equips you with the adaptability and resilience needed for adventures anywhere in the world. There’s no better place to hone your skills, than surrounded by breathtaking scenery and guided by experienced instructors who know the Highlands inside out.
Base Layers
3-4 thermal tops (moisture-wicking, long and short sleeve)
Mid Layers
1-2 mid layer top with hood
Outer Layers
Waterproof, breathable hardshell jacket with a hood (GORE-TEX or equivalent)
Waterproof trousers
Softshell alpine trousers
Softshell Jacket Insulated
Layers
Insulated softshell or lightweight down jacket
Insulated gillet or body warmer
Trekking Clothes
1-2 pairs of trekking pants (quick-drying)
1-2 Trekking shorts or sports shorts
1-2 lightweight wicking t-shirts
Underwear
Multiple sets of sports underwear (merino preferred)
Gloves
Lightweight gloves for trekking
Insulated gloves or mitts
Leather Climbing Gloves
Headwear
Warm beanie or fleece hat
Neck gaiter or Buff
Baseball Cap or sun hat
Mosquito head net
Footwear
Mountaineering Boots. B1 or B2 mountaineering boot. Compatible with your crampon.
Gaiters. To keep snow out of your boots.
Multiple pairs of thick, moisture-wicking hiking socks (plus spares)
Approach shoe or trainer
Sandals or sturdy flip-flops
Climbing Gear
12 point crampons
Climbing Harness
Climbing Helmet
Mountaineering Ice Axe
2x open gate carabiner, 2x screw gate or three lock carabiner
(ALL CLIMBING GEAR AVAILABLE TO RENT)
Sleeping Gear
Sleeping gear will not be required
Backpacks & Bags
Backpack: 35-45L capacity with space for layers, food, and equipment. With rain cover or waterproof liner sacks.
Accessories
Mountain sunglasses with Cat 3-4
Head torch with spare batteries
2x 1L water bottles with insulation pouch and/or hydration bladder
Buff or neck gaiter
Heat pads for hands (optional)
Knife or multitool
Thermos (optional)
Spare clothes for evenings and free time
Trekking Gear
Trekking poles (optional)
Food & Hydration
Snacks (energy bars, nuts, dried fruit, jerky, chocolate, etc.)
Electrolyte tablets or powders
Toiletries & First Aid
Personal toiletries (biodegradable where possible)
Sunscreen (SPF 50+) and lip balm with UV protection
Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
Personal first aid kit (including altitude medication, blister care, and any prescriptions)
Lightweight travel towel
Personal Items
Camera or smartphone with extra batteries
Personal camera for catching memories
Documents & Essentials
Passport (with necessary visas and permits and at least six months left until expiration)
Insurance to cover mountaineering in Scottish winter
Cash (for tips, snacks, and souvenirs)
Correct travel plug adapter
Optional Items
Camera or GoPro with spare batteries
Lightweight book or e-reader
Earplugs and face mask
Battery pack
Hand warmers (optional)
Snacks (energy bars, nuts, dried fruit, jerkey, chocolate, etc.) Electrolyte tablets or powders
Passport Travel insurance with correct coverage
Cash (For tips, snacks, and incidentals)
Earplugs for sleeping (optional)
Sleep mask (optional)
Travel plug adapter (if traveling from outside the UK)
Arrival & Departure Transfers: Pick-up and drop-off from Inverness Airport and Aviemore Train Station
Accommodation: Stay at our private Scottish lodge
Shared rooms included
Single rooms available at an additional cost
Expert Guidance: Led by professional, experienced mountain guides
All Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, plus on-the-hill snacks
Local Transport: All transport to and from training areas provided
Travel to Scotland: Airfare or rail travel to and from the lodge not included
Extra Nights: Additional nights at the lodge or hotels beyond the set itinerary
Additional Food & Drink: Any meals, snacks, or drinks outside of the scheduled meal times
Alcoholic Beverages: Not included
Personal Climbing Gear: Personal gear and equipment (rental kits available at an additional cost)
Travel Insurance: Must be arranged independently and is not included
