Welsh Winter Scrambles

Overview

Using a rope, ice axe and crampons when necessary, you’ll overcome the complex challenges that winter brings to the adventure.

Kit: Don’t worry about having all the kit, as whilst you’ll need to bring your own personal essentials (like your toothbrush), you can use more technical, specialist kit like an ice axe, crampons, winter mountaineering boots and a helmet, from the Plas y Brenin equipment store.

Kit is included in the price shown, subject to availability, and is sourced from leading manufacturers and checked to the latest safety requirements. You’ll find a comprehensive equipment list below.

Included in the residential price: Two nights’ accommodation on a bed, breakfast and evening meal* basis, plus packed lunches on course days. Expert instruction, kit hire, in-course transport, use of the on-site facilities and the all-important Wi-Fi password.

Provision of accommodation begins on the night prior to the start of the course and is not included on the final evening. *Dinner is not provided on the evening prior to the start of the course, nor on the final day of the course. Subject to availability and at an additional cost, extra meals and accommodation can be provided.

We are hugely experienced in preparing delicious meals for a wide range of requirements. Please let us know if you have any dietary requirements at the time of booking.

Age restrictions: The minimum participation age for this course is 14 years. Details about the required consents, permissions and the legal responsibilities of parent/guardian(s) can be found here: https://www.pyb.co.uk/terms-conditions/

The Objectives  

This is a course for the more advanced, so we’ll tackle grade 1, 2 and 3 scrambles where the terrain gets tougher, steeper and more exposed.

You’ll be involved in the decision-making aspects of the day’s activity in discussion with your instructor and course buddy. Understand the logic around safety and kit needs, about weather considerations, and learn at first-hand how to challenge yourself safely

Experience Required

You should have a good level a hillwalking fitness, basic winter experience (such as ice axe and crampon skills), a head for heights, some scrambling experience and a thirst for adventure.

What To Expect

We’ll plan the itinerary in line with your needs and aspirations, depending on where the best conditions are to be found. There will be two good days ‘on the hill’. The Welsh winter can be fickle, and snow and ice conditions can’t be guaranteed. Throughout the weekend we’ll have a flexible approach to the programme to make the best possible use of the prevailing conditions. If there is no snow the course will still run. Plus, you’ll get all the fresh air and wellbeing that the great outdoors delivers naturally.

How Should I Prepare?

• You’ll need to be a more advanced scrambler to take on this course, and previous climbing experience will be very beneficial.
• You’ll need to be a fit summer hill walker who wants to take the challenge to the next level.
• Use the equipment list.
• If you don’t already have them, purchase personal items like sun block, lip salve to provide protection from UV radiation and the wind.
• Decide how you want to protect and make waterproof items like your camera and mobile phone.
• Check and pack basic clothing requirements which you’ll be comfortable to walk, stretch and climb in. Remember layers for warmth.
• If you have your own winter boots, make sure they are worn in and comfortable.