Choose the right course for your ability and experienceCurrent dates and prices for all courses on our programCurrent dates and prices for all courses on our programCheck our current course and guide availability hereFor all bookings and balance paymentsAlpine guides contact detailsAlpine Guides Homepage
UK Rock climbing courses, North Wale, Peak District, Lake DistrictScottish winter mountaineering courses and winter climbing courses in ScotlandAlpine climbing courses and alpine moiuntaineering courses in Chamonix, France, Switzerland, ItalyAlpine icefall climbing courses and holidays in France, Italy and SwitzerlandOff piste skiing holidays, off piste skiing courses, ski touring courses, ski mountaineering courses and holidays, France Italy Switzerland Austria Greenland India ChileClimbing, Mountaineering and Ski Mountaineering expeditions worldwide.

Scotland FAQs

1. When is the best time to go?

Scottish winter climbing conditions can be good at any time from November to April, though between February and mid March is the most reliable time. You must understand though, that the weather in Scotland is sometimes very changeable.

2. How much experience do I need?

You can start Scottish winter mountaineering with no previous snow or ice experience - but for our more advanced itineraries, previous experience is needed. For more information take a look at our scotland course suitability section and the individual course descriptions. Also, whatever you do, don't underestimate the fitness requirements.

3. I'm on my own - can I book a single place on one of your courses?

For all of our our itineraries in Scotland, you are hiring a private guide for yourself or your group - so it will obviously be more expensive on your own than if you share the cost between friends, but on the other hand you do get a full 1 on 1 service!

  
Scotland
.
Introductory
Winter Skills Weekend
Winter Mountaineering
 
.
Intermediate
Ice and Mixed Climbing
.
.
Advanced
Performance Winter Climbing
 
   
.
Bespoke
Private Guiding - from £170
 

4. Can you recommend a place to stay in Fort William?

In the past we've based many courses at the Alexandra Hotel in the middle of town (with a good on site restaurant and range of en suite rooms). If you are on more of a budget then the Bank Street Lodge is also clean and recommended (with a range of twin + family rooms as well as good value dormitory accommodation).

5. What Equipment do I need?

To download a full scottish winter climbing kit list - click here. You are responsible for bringing all items on the kit list. For the more specialist items including crampons, ice axe, harness, helmet, boots - local hire is available.

6. Do I need to bring a car?

Most people bring their own transport for the course. You can use the guides' car if you prefer, but you are expected to cover the fuel costs.

7. What qualifications and experience do your guides have?

On climbing courses, all our guides and instructors hold either the MIC certificate or IFMGA guides qualification. On winter skills weekends, instructors may alternatively hold the Scottish winter mountain leaders certificate. Our team are all keen winter activists who lead Scottish 7 or 8 on their days off - their total enthusiasm for the sport is one of our greatest assets.

 

  
    Copyright © 2006 Alpine Guides Ltd - All Rights Reserved     Site Design: Al Powell/Alpine Guides Ltd