As it's heading towards that time of year again.. Does anyone have any recommendations for companies providing winter skills training (2 or 5 day courses)? Remarks on value, quality of instruction, etc very welcome  Personally speaking, area isn't that important; but comments about how easy the location is to get to in normal winter weather would probably be useful! Thanks
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 Iain Gallagher from Kendal Mountaineering Services generally runs one through OM in February up in Aviemore(ish). They are excellent value. Do a search for OM Winter Skills.
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 I did an MC of S one at Glenmore Lodge years ago. Very good, just go to the GML web page for more. A smaller outfit will often have the advantage that more customisation (times, dates, venues, content) would be possible, but if something like GML fits what you want they are good and you've got accommodation sorted if you want right by the biggest winter playground in the country. Pete.
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 As stated the one run by Iain Gallagher is a very good course. Iain has a good 'local' knowledge of Scotland and runs them for OM members. Even this years course, where snow/ice conditions where awful. Iain knew where to find areas suitable for the course. You can also pick if you only want to do parts of the course or all of it. Iain's prices are very good, I couldn't find anything close to what he charged and I did look. Iain, normally runs the courses around end of Feb. start of March. I will be going on part of the next one if not all. I couldn't complete part of course, due to injuring myself. The course is run in the Avimore area, this year the snow and ice wasn't a problem as the roads where clear, but IIRC, the roads are well gritted, etc. As it's a major tourist area, with peeps wanting to use funicular, skiers and climbers, etc. Paul.
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| Edited: 16/08/11 19:51 |
Two places i would recommend if you want hassle free enjoyment. Plas Y Brenin in Wales or Glenmore Lodge in Scotland. I have done winter skills at both and thoroughly enjoyed both and found them good value for money. Glenmore Lodge was probably the best of the two just because of the snow conditions when i attended in January. The reason i say they are hassle free is if you forget some equipment or just haven't got it, they provide it free of charge. When you get there you haven't got to worry about cooking for yourself as its all done for you unlike some other course's where you are put up in holiday lets and expected to fend for yourself. ( sorry if my view upsets anyone that's just my experience ).
Plas Y Brenin is easy to get to and they keep the roads clear to Capel Curig pretty well most of the time. Glenmore Lodge is a little harder as its a long way into Scotland, Although i have to say when i was up there when snow threatened the ploughs sat the roadside ready to move. Because Glenmore is skiing country they tend to be quick in clearing any Snow when it comes. Both places give good value for money in terms of facilities, equipment and tuition. PS just check out their websites
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 I've done Iain's Winter Skills weekend, and his Snowholing and Winter Nav course. After the WS weekend (well 1.5 of them actually cos I retired hurt half way through the first attempt), I felt confident enough hillwalking in full-on winter conditions. Having done his Winter Nav stuff also, I've been quite happy doing a couple of winter munros solo. Great value for money, and great craic on the weekends too. I'm booking to do a day of winter climbing with him on his courses next year.
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| Edited: 17/08/11 15:10 |
 Done my winter skills with Iain, winter nav and a snowhole too. Not done the climbing but I hung around and soloed a few routes whilst they were up there, he takes him time, makes sure you fully understand what you're supposed to be doing and is there with you step by step.
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 I also recommend Iain's winter skills, snow holing and winter climbing. Fantastic value and i have the confidence to winter walk alone!
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 You obviously need to go where there is some snow and the best chance of that is the Cairngorms so I would suggest Glenmore Lodge. Don't know where you reside but you can get the Inverness bound train and get off at Aviemore Station. Lodge staff may collect you from there or it is a taxi ride up the glen. Slainte Lindsay
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Iain also works from Cairngorms area!
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 Another recommendation for either Glenmore Lodge or Iain Gallagher - both very good value for money.
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