Scotland Winter Skills Adventure Weekend | 30th Jan – 1st Feb 2026
- Janire
- Nov 11
- 5 min read
Winter in the UK transforms the hills and mountains into a breathtaking landscape of snow and ice. It’s a season that calls for adventure — one that tests your skills, lifts your spirit, and rewards you with moments you’ll never forget.
If you’ve ever dreamed of tackling Scotland’s snowy peaks with confidence, now’s your chance!
Join us for the Scotland Winter Skills Adventure Weekend from Friday 30th January to Sunday 1st February 2026 — an immersive winter retreat designed for beginners and those new to winter hiking.
This adventure, led by Gemma (a qualified Mountain Leader and Winter Mountain Leader) in partnership with Ray of Sun Adventures, blends skill-building, breathtaking mountain journeys, and that signature Ray of Sun community magic.
❄️ A Scottish Winter Skills Adventure Weekend Awaits
Surrounded by the majestic peaks of Glencoe on Scotland’s wild west coast, this weekend is your chance to embrace winter in all its beauty — learning essential snow and ice skills, summiting a Munro, and sharing an unforgettable experience with a supportive group of adventurers.
Why Winter Skills Matter
Winter in the mountains isn’t just colder—it’s a whole new ballgame. Navigating snow-covered trails, icy slopes, and unpredictable weather requires proper training. Without the right knowledge, winter walking can be daunting, and even dangerous.
This course will teach you everything you need to know to safely explore the winter wilderness, from essential gear use to advanced techniques like self-arrest with an ice axe. By the end of the two days, you’ll feel ready to take on the snowy peaks with confidence and excitement.
Course Highlights
This two-day course is packed with practical skills and essential knowledge:
Journey through the Scottish Highlands: Immerse yourself in the winter beauty of Fort William and Glencoe.
Learn essential gear techniques: How to select, organise, and use equipment like crampons and ice axes.
Avalanche awareness: Understand snowpack conditions and learn to assess risks.
Planning safe routes: Interpret weather and avalanche forecasts to map out your journey.
Movement skills: Master walking on snow and ice for both ascents and descents.
Emergency skills: Practice self-belay, self-arrest, and other critical procedures.
We’ll focus on teaching these techniques in a relaxed and inclusive setting, so you’ll have plenty of time to ask questions, practice, and build your confidence.
Who Should Join?
This course is designed for beginners and open to all. No prior winter mountaineering experience is required—just a good base level of fitness and a sense of adventure!
It’s perfect if you:
Want to safely explore snowy mountains.
Are planning future adventures in the UK’s mountains during winter.
Enjoy learning in a supportive, social environment.
📅 Event Details
Dates: Friday 30th January – Sunday 1st February 2026
Location: Glencoe, Scottish Highlands
Duration: 3 days / 2 nights
Level: Suitable for beginners and those new to winter hiking
Price: £349 per person
🌨️ What’s Included
Winter Skills Day – learn essential snow and ice techniques in a fun, social setting
Guided Mountain Journeys & Munro Summits
Two nights’ lakeside accommodation at Camus House, Onich
Two breakfasts & packed lunches
One evening meal
Expert instruction and guidance throughout the weekend
Our friendly guides will support you every step of the way, helping you build confidence in the snow — you’ll feel like a winter wizard in no time! 🧙♀️
🗺️ Retreat Itinerary
Day One – Welcome to Winter
4:00 pm: Kit rental pick-up (Ellis Brigham, Fort William)
5:00 pm: Arrive at Basecamp – Gemma will be there to greet you
6:30 pm: Let’s Talk Winter – gear, clothing, and safety chat (bring your boots and crampons!)
7:30 pm: Dinner & Social – relaxed evening of good food, laughter, and new friendships
Day Two – Learn & Explore
7:30 am: Breakfast & make your packed lunch
8:30 am: Morning briefing – safety, weather, and avalanche awareness
10:30 am: Mountain Journey – practice winter skills: boot/crampon use, ice axe techniques, and self-arrest
4:30 pm: Afternoon tea and warm-up back at base
7:00 pm: Evening meal (location TBC)
Day Three – Summit Success
7:30 am: Breakfast & packed lunch prep
8:00 am: Briefing and weather update
9:00 am: Mountain Journey – aim for a Munro summit and put your new skills into action
5:00 pm: Kit return (Ellis Brigham, Fort William)
Why Learn with Us?
Not only will you gain invaluable skills, but you’ll also be part of a supportive group of like-minded adventurers. Together, we’ll tackle the challenges of winter mountaineering in a fun and inclusive environment.
This isn’t just about technical skills—it’s about building confidence, exploring breathtaking landscapes, and creating unforgettable memories.
🎒 What You’ll Need
You’ll receive a full kit list with tips and advice before the trip — but here’s the gist:
Winter Clothing:
Layers are your best friend! A warm base layer, waterproof shell, and insulated mid-layers will keep you happy and toasty.
Winter Equipment:
B1 or B2 Mountaineering Boots
C1 or C2 Crampons
Walking Axe
Helmet
If you don’t have winter gear — no worries! Rentals are available through us or Ellis Brigham, Fort William (full kits available).
🏡 Accommodation
Camus House, Onich – 5★ Rated Victorian Guest House
Dating back to 1892, Camus House blends historic charm with modern comfort. You’ll enjoy:
Sweeping views over Loch Linnhe and the peaks of Glencoe
Cosy en-suite twin rooms with heated blankets, tea, coffee & biscuits, and all the comforts after a chilly day in the hills
Twin rooms are shared. Limited single rooms may be available at nearby hotels for an additional cost.
💬 FAQs
What’s not included?
Transport, rental equipment, and the evening meal on the second night.
How fit do I need to be?
A moderate level of fitness is ideal. We’ll walk at a relaxed, social pace — but winter conditions can be demanding, so expect a satisfying challenge!
Do I need transport?
Yes. You’ll need transport during your stay, but we’ll offer car-sharing options and friendly pick-ups from Fort William to make life easier.
Can I have my own room?
Yes, private rooms can be arranged nearby (subject to availability and extra cost).
Where is the accommodation and how do I get there?
Camus House is in Onich, 11 miles from Fort William.
Regular buses connect Fort William and Onich (around 20 minutes).
Fort William has train and bus stations (the Caledonian Sleeper from London is a great option!).
Nearest airports: Glasgow & Inverness (best connections via Glasgow).
What food is provided?
Continental breakfasts each morning
DIY packed lunches
Delicious vegetarian evening meal on the first night(Dietary needs? We’ve got you covered!)
🌨️ Ready to Embrace Winter?
This retreat is your chance to step into a true Highland adventure — to build confidence, gain winter skills, and fall in love with Scotland in its most dramatic season.
Led by Gemma, a qualified Winter Mountain Leader with extensive experience guiding in Scottish winter conditions, and supported by the Ray of Sun Adventures community, you’ll be in safe, inspiring hands every step of the way.
🔥 £349 per person – limited spaces available!
Whether you’re learning winter walking skills for the first time or chasing your next snowy summit, this weekend will leave you buzzing with confidence, laughter, and memories to last a lifetime.
Let’s make this winter your most adventurous yet.
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