Whether you’re after a big hill day out, an expedition or something more relaxed, these guided walks are designed to give you a brilliant experience in the Scottish hills. From first-time walkers to seasoned hikers, each route is thoughtfully planned to be extra memorable!
Explore the Scottish Hills
“Will’s expertise and calming energy meant I felt safe throughout, even when the weather turned dramatic — an unforgettable day on the Munros. By the end of the day I felt like I was with a friend of many years" — Lila
Our Guided two-day Cairngorm Expedition
Do you want to experience a fully supported and guided expedition in the wild Cairngorms?
Our Mountain Skills Course is designed to build your confidence in the mountains. Whether you’re a hillwalker wanting to improve your navigation, boost your safety skills or take your first steps into wild camping, this is a supportive, practical and fun expedition.
Based among some of the highest mountains in Scotland, we’ll journey through valleys and across rough ground (walking not climbing) and spend time on the wide open Cairngorm plateau. We’ll head into the hills to cook dinner together and wild camp under big skies.
More importantly, you’ll build the confidence to plan your own mountain days and overnight trips. You’ll navigate using map and compass in real conditions, make thoughtful route choices and understand how to move safely and responsibly through mountain terrain.
We’ll cover weather, hazards, camp craft and decision making as part of a proper hands-on expedition. You’ll get to take ownership of your journey and steadily refine your judgement.
Some prior hillwalking experience and a reasonable level of fitness are required, but we’re not here to beast you! This isn’t a Munro bagging mission. We’ll move with purpose, slow down when it matters and make sure it all sinks in..
This is two days of journeying through the hills, carrying what we need and spending a night wild camping. We’ll learn by doing, support each other, and have a good laugh. We guarantee you’ll leave feeling more capable, more independent and ready to plan your own adventures!
What will it look like?
This is a practical and fully supported two-day mountain expedition based in the heart of the Cairngorms.
We meet in Aviemore on Saturday morning before travelling to the hills together. We’ll get straight into it and wind our way onto the Cairngorm plateau, navigating with our maps and compasses. You’ll climb some big hills and take in the huge landscapes all around.
Across the weekend we’ll cover:
Mountain hazards, including safe route choice, interpreting weather forecasts, moving confidently on steep or rocky ground and responding to an emergency
The mountain environment, including access rights and responsible wild camping
Maps, including reading different map types, understanding scale and interpreting key features
Navigation strategy, including reading the landscape, using map and compass effectively and planning routes as a group
Planning safe and rewarding mountain days, including adapting for poor weather
Wild camping skills and camp craft, including choosing a good spot and making the most of a night in the hills
Personal equipment for hillwalking, understanding what kit is needed for different seasons and objectives
You’ll get to talk through decisions, test ideas in real terrain and learn from what works. As the days unfold, you’ll take increasing ownership of the navigation (co-planing day two’s route) and steadily refine your mountain skills.
You’ll leave with stronger skills, clearer thinking and the confidence to plan and lead your own mountain adventures!
Who is it for?
This weekend is ideal if you:
Have some prior hillwalking experience
Are up for a supported adventure from a fully qualified Mountain Leader (Will)
Want to boost your hills skills e.g. moving though rough ground, building confidence with your map and compass and improving your navigation
Would like to experience wild camping in a supportive environment
Are ready to take more ownership of your mountain days
You don’t need much experience, but you should feel comfortable walking for a full day in mountain terrain and carrying an overnight pack.
Groups are kept small and friendly, so everyone has space to practise, ask questions and take part. We work collaboratively, share ideas and support each other throughout the weekend.
How much does it cost?
£195 per person
£185 if you’ve previously attended a Mountain Buddies course
£225 Pay It Forward
The Pay It Forward rate helps fund supported places for people who experience barriers to accessing the outdoors. It allows us to offer reduced cost spaces on our courses and keep Mountain Buddies accessible to a wider community.
If cost is a barrier for you, please get in touch.
When are they running?
Sat 11 April - Sun 12 April
Sat 13 June - Sun 14 June
Sat 5 September - Sun 6 September
mountain skills
Where does the course take place?
Yes, you should have some hillwalking experience and be comfortable walking for several hours on uneven ground while carrying a backpack. This is not a beginner introduction to walking, but you do not need advanced navigation skills.
Is this assessed?
No! It’s designed to be a fun and practical learning experience which will boost your confidence, competence and independence in the hills.
How fit do I need to be?
You should be able to walk for two full days in mountain terrain while carrying your overnight kit. We move steadily, but it’s not a race. There’ll be time to pause, learn and take in the landscape.
Do I need any experience?
It takes place in the Aviemore area and begins on Saturday morning. The meet location will be confirmed once you've booked on.
Can I get there via public transport?
Aviemore is reachable via train and bus with links to all major Scottish cities.
What happens if the weather is bad?
We go ahead in most conditions, as learning to make safe decisions in real mountain weather is part of the experience. However, your safety is always the priority. If conditions are unsuitable e.g. there’s snow and ice on the ground, then we’ll adapt the plan accordingly.
How big will the group be?
What kit do I need? Do I need my own tent?
You’ll carry your own kit including your backpack, warm and waterproof clothing, food and overnight camping gear. A full kit list will be sent in advance so you can prepare properly. We also have access to some kit (e.g. Tent, waterproof) which you can rent - please mention this when you register interest.
Absolutely! Lots of people book solo, the course is very friendly.
Can I come on my own?
We run with minimum two, maximum five. Keeping numbers low is important, so everyone gets the right support.
I'm unsure I can walk for two days
Our mantra is “here for a good time, not a quick one” which applies to Mountain Skills. I’m always happy to have a chat about the course and help you decide if it's a good fit for your current experience and goals.
What does it cost and what’s included for that price?
The cost is £195 per person, £185 if you’ve previously attended a Mountain Buddies course, and a £225 Pay It Forward Rate (see details above)
This includes a fully guided 2-day expedition from a qualified Mountain Leader, Will, whose very experienced guiding groups in the hills. He holds an Outdoor First Aid certificate plus the relevant insurance to guide you safely. He'll probably have a few snacks to share as we go, too!
Personal equipment, food and drink are not included. A full kit list will be provided in advance, and if you would like support sourcing or hiring equipment, we’re happy to help arrange this.
How do I book a place?
To book your place please Register Interest below
We'll then be in touch to confirm your place
The final step is to make your payment to the following account:
William Hall | 94184640 | 04-00-03
mountain skills - some faq's
SOME OF THE WALKS WE OFFER
Bidean nam Bian, Glencoe
• Distance: 16 km
• Elevation gain: 1,316 m
• Effort level: 5/5
One of the most dramatic peaks in the Highlands, Bidean nam Bian (known as the Three Sisters) offers stunning views, steep ridges, and a true sense of achievement. Perfect for adventurous walkers looking for a challenging yet hugely rewarding day.
Ben Vrackie, Perthshire
• Distance: 10 km
• Elevation gain: 780 m
• Effort level: 3/5
A favourite in Perthshire, Ben Vrackie gives incredible views across the Tay Valley. A great choice for walkers seeking a satisfying challenge with beautiful scenery, and only 1.5 hours from Edinburgh & Glasgow.
Ben Nevis, Lochaber
• Distance: 17 km
• Elevation gain: 1,345 m
• Effort level: 4/5
Scotland’s highest mountain offers a full-on hill adventure with dramatic views and rugged terrain. Part of the National Three Peaks Challenge!
Ben Ledi, Trossachs
• Distance: 8 km
• Elevation gain: 879 m
• Effort level: 3/5
A shorter, rewarding hill in the Loch Lubnaig area. Ben Ledi offers open ridges and stunning views. It's perfect for walkers looking for a fulfilling day without tackling a giant peak.
There are hundreds more brilliant options for a hill day. Bespoke Hill Days are tailored around your goals, abilities and interests. Get in touch for more info and we can plan something epic.
bespoke hill days
