We plan to meet in the north face car park, check equipment before heading up the track towards the north face of Ben Nevis, as the rocks grow closer we make tracks east up the steep ascent towards Carn Dearg Meadhonach. We start to have a sense of scale of the day with our gain in height towards the munros summit of Carn Mor Dearg, stunning panoramic views in every direction, including the CMD arete which lays to the south. We get kitted up before heading along the exposed but not too technically difficult ridge, one that will be remembered for a long time! The summit of Ben Nevis awaits after the exposure subsides.
All of our staff hold the relevant qualifications and substantial experience for any courses that you book with us here at Scottish Rock & Water. We can provide any relevant certifications upon request.
Yes, you can secure your course/trip with a deposit. We only require a 25% deposit to reserve your position, with the full payment due 30 days prior to the start date.
Yes! Around 40% of people book as solo travellers.
Yes! You can use our fast checkout option to secure your spot without adding participant details. All we need is your name and email to send the confirmation.
While it's not legally required, we strongly recommend that you secure comprehensive travel/activity insurance before your trip to Scotland. Our courses involve outdoor adventures where weather conditions or unforeseen events could cause cancellations or prevent attendance. Having insurance ensures that you're financially protected if these situations arise. For example, many adventurers opt for specialized coverage such as Sports Cover Direct's offerings for canoe holidays or winter climbing, and the British Mountaineering Council also provides tailored policies for mountaineering activities. We encourage you to review these options and choose a policy that best suits your needs for peace of mind during your adventure.
Need to swap dates, change participant details, or ask technical kit questions? Our instructors are on hand to assist.
Want dedicated 1:1 instruction or exclusive guiding for your party on CMD Arete Guided Walk? Choose your target dates, customize the daily objectives, and enjoy 100% guide focus.
Small groups, qualified instructors, and days shaped around the people who turn up.
We’re a very small, family-run business built on a love for Scotland’s wild places. Unlike big providers, we focus on personal connections, tailored experiences, and a deep commitment to the landscapes we work in. When you book with us, you're supporting a passionate local team who truly care about your experience.
We’re committed to protecting the landscapes we love. Unlike providers who put profit first, we focus on responsible guiding, conservation, and a leave-no-trace ethos. When you book with us, you’re supporting sustainable tourism and helping preserve Scotland’s wild places for future generations.
We keep our group sizes small to provide a personal and tailored experience. Whether it’s your first time in the mountains or you’re a seasoned adventurer, we take the time to understand your goals and adapt each course to suit your needs.
Sure, you can find the well-trodden routes in a book—but we take you beyond the usual paths. With our deep local knowledge, we’ll guide you to hidden ridges, quiet valleys, and secret spots that make every adventure feel truly unique.
Route notes, packing, and what the days are actually like.
Highlands JournalStephen McCall
When you paddle the Hårkan River in central Sweden, you're not just on a canoe trip—you're moving through some of the most pristine wilderness Scandinavia has to offer. Vast forests meet clear water, the only sounds are...
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Fresh, hearty meals are a highlight of our canoe holidays—think hot porridge for breakfast, picnic-style lunches, and hearty dinners like curry or fajitas, all made with quality ingredients. We cater for all diets and us...
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Making the leap to trad climbing? Learn how to build your first rack without breaking the bank. This guide covers essential gear and what beginners actually need for Scottish summer climbing....
Ridges, rivers, or a winter day on the hill. Tell us the dates and the group, and a guide will reply with straight advice.
Gift vouchers
A voucher from £50, posted to you and valid for three years. It can go toward a course, a private day, or winter kit hired for that trip.
