Winter Hiking Across the Cairngorms

This trip will require a good level of fitness due to the variable conditions of potentially challenging winter conditions. Previous experience is preferable, but we will provide training during the first morning and throughout the week. Expect to be walking for 7-9 hours each day in a variety of conditions that the Scottish Winter may throw at us!

See inclusions and exclusions above.

- Quality waterproofs i.e. Gore-tex or similar  - B2-B3 style boots - Hat - Waterproof gloves plus spares x 2 minimum - Winter walking socks - We advise wearing 2-3 thinner layers rather than one thick layer so you can adjust your temperature during the activity - 'Belay' type jacket - Wicking base layers, top & bottoms - Goggles, double clear lens recommended - Head torch, plus spare batteries - Balaclava and neck gaiter - Lunch & warm drink - Rucksack 30-40ltr

We plan to stay at the Cairngorm Hotel in Aviemore, providing a central base for our week. Described as Aviemore's premier independant Hotel, situated directly opposite the railway station in the heart of Aviemore. Check in is on day one of the coure and check out on the last day of the course. Breakfast is included.

Start: Generally we will meet for 8:30 AM on the first morning. Your guide will let you know the meeting point once we have an accurate forecast but usually it's at Tisos cafe, Aveimore. This will be communicated to you in the week before the trip start. End: This could be any location of the days but we aim to finish the trip at around 16:30 AM in Aviemore on the last day.

Yes! It is very unlikely that the itinerary will run as outlined due to Scottish Winter. We take each day at a time to maximise the team's safety, confidence and overall enjoyment of the course.

Scottish winters are known for their challenges, but it's this very nature that makes them so rewarding and unique. Navigating these conditions under your own steam is an experience like no other. While the weather can sometimes be unpredictable, our approach remains positive and adaptable. On stormier days, we may shift focus to lower summits or expand on key skills, ensuring every moment is valuable and rewarding. Our experienced guides know the Cairngorms inside out, allowing us to make the most of each day, whatever the conditions. Together, we'll embrace the challenges and create unforgettable experiences.

The primary aim of this trip is guiding summits. To make this as safe and efficient as possible, we will coach people on fundamental skills, including: - Movement skills (with and without crampons) - Step cutting with your ice axe - Ice axe arrest - How to spot areas of potential avalanche terrain and how to avoid them We focus a morning on this training. Then, we primarily do this on the move each day teaching in context as we cross over different styles of terrain.

18 years old.

We aim to have twin rooms, shared occupancy with one of the other participants. You can arrange single occupancy at your own expense if required.

We only provide breakfast on this trip. Lunches and dinners will be organised by each guest.