We will meet and chat through people's aims for the next few days. We will also look at the avalanche and weather forecasts and chat about where we are going and why. If conditions allow, we will head into Coire an t-Sneachda to recap some core skills; route finding, movement, gear selection building belays and bringing your second up.
Creag an Chano this gives us the opportunity to abseil 'for real' as we start at the top of the routes. Today we will look at a 'mixed' style of climbing where we may encounter, ice, frozen turf and iced up rock. The routes here offer us a the opportunity if appropriate to allow you the chance to get your first lead on an easy grade route. We will chat about this in depth to make sure all parties are happy to let you on the sharp end.
Welcome to Ardlogie, a friendly, relaxed guest house situated in a peaceful location close to the centre of Aviemore, with views towards the...
Surrounded by woodland, Aviemore Youth Hostel sits on the edge of the Cairngorms National Park and is just a short walk from Aviemore town c...
Aviemore’s premier independent hotel, situated directly opposite the railway station in the heart of Aviemore offers a warm and friendly wel...
Ideal for those looking to experience the challenges and excitement of winter climbing while building confidence in snowy and icy conditions. Days may focus on guided climbing or skill development, with routes selected to suit your experience and goals. This is a perfect opportunity to explore Scotland’s winter landscapes with the support of an experienced guide.
Previous experience using crampons is essential, and a background in rock climbing or scrambling is highly beneficial. Depending on the day, you may focus on guided climbs or refining techniques such as moving on mixed terrain, placing protection in winter conditions, and ropework. A good level of fitness is required, as the terrain and conditions can be physically demanding.
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 winter lead climbing intro? Choose your target dates, customize the daily objectives, and enjoy 100% guide focus.
Winter climbing instructors, classic Scottish venues, and a ratio that leaves time to teach.
All of our courses take place in the Cairngorms, a breathtaking location known for its rugged beauty and dramatic landscapes. This stunning environment offers the perfect backdrop for your winter adventures, allowing you to challenge yourself while surrounded by some of Scotland's most iconic and awe-inspiring scenery.
We live and work in the Cairngorms—and have for over 16 years! Our deep connection to this stunning area means we know it inside and out. From hidden gems to the best winter routes, you’ll benefit from our local knowledge and passion for the place we call home. Whether you’re new to the area or a returning adventurer, we’re here to share the very best of the Cairngorms with you.
All of our courses come fully equipped with leading providers of winter hardware inc our new range of Grivel axes and crampons, world-renowned for their excellence. These industry-leading tools are included as part of your course fee, ensuring that you're using the best equipment available to safely tackle the challenging Scottish winter conditions.
All of our courses are led by dedicated and passionate instructors who bring their expertise and love for the outdoors to every session. They will take the time to tailor the course to your abilities, at pace that suits you while helping you gain the skills and confidence needed to excel in the challenging Scottish winter conditions.
How other climbers found the teaching, the ice, and the step up from summer rock.
Grades, tools, and how to prepare for a Scottish winter climb.
Winter SkillsStephen McCall
A blog to help people plan their winter days with a framework to have safer and more enjoyable days in the winter months....
WinterLou Reynolds
You may be relatively new to winter walking or an expert winter climber, but avalanche awareness applies to us all and unfortunately, I don't think we can ever sit back and say we have it all sorted. It needs constant aw...
WinterLou Reynolds
Keeping our hands warm in winter is a common topic of conversation and an area of confusion for some. The idea of needing the most expensive gloves on the market, or buying the thickest pair possible, is not necessarily...
Not sure if your summer leading is enough, or which winter grade to start on? Talk to the instructors who teach these routes.
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.
