Intermediate Courses

For those with experience of our winter wonderland we run an advanced course. If you have mastered the skills set out in our basic course then this is for you. We include as much as we can in the time available to us and that conditions allow. Each course is structured toward personal development so each course will obviously be different, concentrating on individual's strengths and weaknesses. We keep each course to a maximum of three clients to ensure that each climber receives personal attention.

Typically, subjects covered could include:

A recap of the basic skills then...

• Navigation
• Choosing a route
• Climbing conditions
• Advanced ropework
• Ice bollards/belays
• Protecting a climb
• Abseiling
• Efficient use of ice tools
• Care and maintenance of equipment
• Choice of equipment
• Emergency procedures
• Self rescue

Other subjects may be covered at the client's request.

Our time together is utilised fully, no rest days are included and all subjects are based on practical demonstration followed by client participation. This is backed up in the evenings with informal discussion on the day's activities. Several climbs of increasing difficulty will be climbed during the course if conditions allow, indeed, we structure each course on 'going climbing' so you learn the skills in real conditions.

You will leave this course with the knowledge and confidence to climb some of our more demanding routes. Knowing that you have the skills in your armoury to deal with situations as they arise. Above all, it's a great time in the mountains.

Notes regarding accommodation can be found at the bottom of this page.

Alpine Training - Scotland

Preparation for those who wish to travel further afield to the Alps or Greater Ranges

Courses for the novice and the more experienced, tailored to suit your needs. This course encompasses much of the basic and intermediate subjects outlined above. It is an intensive course covering the skills required to travel in alpine regions. This course is ideal for those heading for their first alpine season or those who wish to brush up on alpine techniques. It is particularly suited to anybody considering one of our Alpine Courses as it covers much ground and saves time in the Alps when the most important thing is to go climbing.

You will leave this course with a better understanding of the Alpine environment and the skills to deal with the problems and conditions found while travelling in alpine regions. Clients should note that this is not an Alpine Climbing Course. Alpine climbing skills can only be taught in a true alpine environment under genuine alpine conditions. If you have winter climbing experience in Britain then you have many of the technical skills required - the trick is to know which ones to employ and when. The Alpine Training course can offer help and advice in this area.

This course does offer a firm grounding for your alpine experience and sets you on your way to tackling some of the higher alpine peaks:- invaluable for the novice alpinist. For details of our alpine courses, with advice on which areas are most suitable, please see our Alpine Climbing page.

Accommodation

All courses are based in The Northern Cairngorms or on the West Coast (Nevis, Glencoe, etc.)
We will go where the conditions are best.

Cairngorms
In the Cairngorms we normally stay at the comfortable Aviemore YH. Close to all of Aviemore's ammentities. If you haven't stayed in a hostel for many years then you will be pleasantly surprised on how much they have changed.

West Coast
In Fort William or Glencoe we use a variety of Hostels and Bunkhouses, depending on vacancies available. Being a very popular area bed spaces get filled quickly in the better hostels so it is wise to book as early as possible to secure a comfortable bed.

Prices per night are around £10.00 per person (self catering - recommended)
Alternative accommodation can be arranged - from Hotels to Self Catering Cottages and Chalets. Remember that being flexible ensures the best conditions, tying oneself to a single place may not be the best solution.
Please try to book as early as possible to avoid disappointment as our courses are very popular and dates fill quickly.