As Scottish Sliding seems to be on hold for the foreseeable future, me and the Mrs are looking for some winter skills courses while we have the use of a campervan for the weekend of roundabout the end of March (probably end up a powder fest by that time once weve booked something!)Prices range dramactically for the 2 days offered and alot of them seem to land on or about the 10th March which Im not available for anyway. No preference as to where they are held but would appreciate any info on value for money/general overall experience from whichever courses any of you may have done cheers!

Looked at this before for this winter, but ended up on a BASI course instead. But might come back to it next year.

Cant talk from peronal experience. But I've heard allot of people talk highly of Glenmore Lodge at Aviemore regarding Winter Skills.

Their 3 upcoming 5 day Winter Skills courses start on 12th, 19th & 26th of March. Mon-Fri.

The cost being £575 for the 5 days per person.

Glenmore website with more info. [www.glenmorelodge.org.uk]

If Fort William takes your fancy then another one to check out is Rob Johnson, he costs a slightly friendlier £350 per person for what I beleive is the same course. And I beleive they head up Nevis Range if its open for segments of the course. Not sure on dates though.

His website: [www.expeditionguide.com]

Im sure theres more knowledgeable folk on here but hope that helps.

I've just had my steep skiing course cancelled at Glenmore lodge unfortunately but for pretty obvious reasons. I've been on a few courses up their and they're great. Costs include accommodation and full board. Tuition is excellent and a great experience from skilled mountaineers. So I'd recommend them.

Yup, cant fault Glemore for there enthusiam and professiionalism. Was there for an open canoe day in October, but want to take the accomodation and food out the equation as we'll be self sufficient anyway. Anyone used Tarmachan mountaineering?
Only really after the two days Cammy

^ If you are looking for a custom course try Dave Virdee at Mountain Active.

[www.mountainactive.co.uk]

He would be able to run a 2 day course specifically tailored to your requirements, at a location of your choice. Nice guy, strong climber, qualified Winter ML, good teacher. His prices are also very reasonable. Plus he is also into a little ski touring - so would be able to teach a course from snowsports perspective.

Should disclose that he is a friend of mine (hence the link) - but you would learn lots.





Edited 2 times. Last edit at 09.58hrs Wed 29 Feb 12 by Doug_Bryce.

Yes, we know Davy too and can add to Dougs recommendation.
2 days is fine if you are just winter walking.

Mike in Edinburgh
Assorted scottish pics - www.prog99.com

If you're in the Aviemore area on the 24th March, the Scottish Backcountry Ski, Snowboard & Film Festival is running.

If you buy a ticket for the eveing film festival/party (£7 each) that gets you a place on the Backcountry Skills clinic during the day - no snow options will be lined up in the event that there's no snow (still optimistic for March?!).

Not a bad deal for £7 I think you'll agree?

Details at the website; www.scottishbackcountry.co.uk

Cheers,
Craig