Classic rock climbing courses

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Course Overview

Classic rock is the next step for people with some rock climbing knowledge who would like to experience the best that Scotland has to offer at an intermediate grade. Also, participants on the Easy Rock course, often find this level to suit them. The two courses can be very similar, although absolute novices should choose Easy Rock.

Climbing will be in the V.Diff to V.S grades (up to 4c). A chance to try leading under instruction will be offered on the cliffs of Glen Nevis, Ben Nevis, Binnein Shuas and Glen Coe. The term 'Classic Rock' describes a route which has excellent position, purity of line and generally good quality rock (not too loose!)

Course Details

Costs: £450 for five days

Ratio: 1:2

Dates

The choice is yours, but please check before making a booking. Courses are normally five days in length.

Sample Programme

This depends to a large extent on the experience and needs of those taking part.. Participants will be taught a great deal about choosing and using the correct, modern gear in a safe and sensible fashion. Obviously the weather and rock conditions will dictate what can be achieved.

Generally speaking every day is spent out of doors looking at the traditional skills of placing gear and building anchors, whilst ascending routes. In this era of indoor climbing and bouldering walls, this course provides an opportunity to get out and about into the fresh air on proper crags..

Leave the plastic holds behind and experience some real rock for a change.

Kit Requirements

Rock Climbing Kit List

Boots
A fairly flexible pair of boots with good lateral stiffness and well kept ‘Vibram’ sole are adequate for approaching the climbs. They should have a high ankle to give support in that area and should not be smooth-soled.

Rock climbing ("Sticky boots") are essential and can be hired in Fort William (£4 a day)

Harness
A sit harness is essential for rock climbing

Helmet
Essential for rock climbing

Belay Plate & screwgate carabiner * chalk bag for harder climbs

Rucsac
A small to medium volume rucsac is necessary (50 litres) for all courses.

First Aid Kit
For blisters, insect bites, headaches or stomach upsets. Sun screen cream will also be useful from April to September hopefully!!

Waterproof jacket and trousers
Essential

Sheet sleeping bag liner
This should be brought if you have one and are using a Youth Hostel (can be hired)

Personal Clothing
This should cover both cold and warm situations. Shorts and T-Shirts for the hot days, plus fleeces or woolly jumpers and windproofs for colder weather. Track suit trousers are perfectly adequate for summer rock climbing courses. Please bring woolly hat and gloves as well.

Flask and/or water-bottle and Packed Lunch food

Accommodation

Accommodation in Fort William is extra to instruction unless shown and a choice is offered as follows:

Camping
A good site with all facilities is located in Glen Nevis. Phone for details of current prices. (01397) 702191.

Self-Catering
from £16.00 per night Calluna Bunkhouse or SYHA.

Guest House
From £150.00 B&B for six nights

B&B is available for people who wish to eat out in the evenings. Please state your preference on the booking form and it will be pre-booked. Accommodation costs are payable on arrival and full details are sent in advance.