Get ready for the Alps!
A practical two-day course designed to prepare you for your first alpine mountaineering trip. Whether you're heading to Chamonix, Switzerland, or just starting to think about the Alps, this course builds essential skills, sharpens your mountain sense, and gives you time with experienced IFMGA guides who can help you plan and prepare. Set in the Northern Cairngorms, we’ll cover alpine ropework, crevasse rescue, movement in mixed terrain, and expedition planning. You’ll gain confidence, clarity, and a stronger foundation for future alpine adventures.
What's included
We handle the logistics so you can concentrate on the adventure.
Expert Guiding
2 days of expert guiding by IMFGA Guides.
Local Transport
Local transport throughout your course.
Participant Requirements
Fitness
Open to anyone with alpine ambitions. Able to walk in mountainous terrain for several hours.
Level
Some summer or winter hillwalking experience recommended. Basic rock climbing skills useful but not essential.
Equipment
Mountaineering clothing boots, harness, helmet, and a rucksack. Technical equipment such as crampons and ice axe can be hired.
Itinerary
Day 1
Skill Building
Technical instruction covering alpine ropework, glacier travel, ice axe/crampon use, and climbing movement. Afternoon session on maps, huts, and alpine planning.
Day 2
Mountain Day
Full mountain day with a ridge scramble or alpine-style route in the Northern Corries. Consolidation of ropework, navigation and movement skills. Course ends with review and future planning advice.
