Elite Guides Blog - Climbing Conditions and tips

Climbing Conditions in Scotland - Climbing tips, information and useful resources.


Elite Guides Blog | A Guide to Mobile Phone Navigation and Safety in the British Mountains

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Elite Guides Blog | Five Must-do Routes in Scotland

Scotland's Highlands offer a thrilling playground for adventure seekers, enticing climbers and mountaineers worldwide with its stunning natural beauty. With its dramatic summits and breath taking views, the Highlands provide an unmatched backdrop for rock climbing and mountaineering enthusiasts.


From the iconic ridges of the Isle of Skye to the grandeur of Ben Nevis, these climbing routes are not just about exhilarating experiences; they connect adventurers to Scotland’s rich heritage and splendid landscapes. Find out more

Clach Glas - Bla Bheinn traverse

Elite Guides | Blog - Skye Cuillin Traverse tips

Skey Cuillin ridge traverse

Embarking on the exhilarating adventure of a Skye Cuillin Ridge traverse is a dream for many outdoor enthusiasts, offering a unique blend of breath taking views and challenging climbs.


To conquer this iconic Scottish ridge, a thorough mountaineering preparation is essential, combining climbing fitness, strategic tactics, and precise route reading techniques.


Whether you're a seasoned rock climber or an aspiring mountaineer, understanding the intricacies of the Skye Cuillin Ridge will make your journey both safer and more enjoyable. In this guide, we’ll provide you with essential tips to enhance your climbing ability and experience, identify crucial water sources on Skye, and equip you with the confidence of a trusted adventure companion. Read More...


Elite Guides | Blog - Climbing Ben Nevis in winter

Embarking on a winter walking journey to the top of Scotland's highest and most majestic peak, Ben Nevis, requires more than just a spirit of adventure; it demands the right hiking kit to ensure both safety and enjoyment. As temperatures plummet and snow blankets the rugged landscape, the correct winter walking gear becomes indispensable for any outdoor explorer.


Read more...

Climb Ben Nevis in Winter

Elite Guides | Blog - Scottish Winter Courses explained.

As winter casts its spell over Scotland's rugged terrain, the country becomes a wonderland for adventure seekers ready to embrace the season's excitement. Scottish winter activities are an array of thrilling experiences, from the refreshing joy of winter walking to the heart-racing challenges of winter mountaineering and climbing.


Each offers distinct thrills and unique demands, making the right choice in an Elite Guides course crucial for ensuring a safe and enjoyable adventure. Read more...


Elite Guides Blog   Skye Cuillin Munros in order of difficulty - Cuillin Munro Guide

In Pinn Guides - Skye Cuillin Munro Guides

Exploring the Skye Cuillin Munros promises an unforgettable adventure in Scotland's most challenging and impressive landscapes. These peaks boast a mix of accessible paths, technical scrambles, and exposed ridges, posing varied challenges for climbers and mountaineers.


Proper preparation and guidance can turn these challenges into rewarding achievements. This guide offers key mountain climbing tips, route options and information on each peak. Read more..


Elite Guides Blog | A Winter Cuillin Ridge Traverse

A Winter Cuillin Ridge Traverse is probably one of the most sort after Winter Mountaineering objectives in the UK, thankfully it is one I managed to tick off a few years ago with a good friend. Below is a short Write up of the trip along with a few tips on tactics etc.


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Skye Cuillin Winter Traverse

Elite Guides | A new name, the same level of high-quality service and experience.

Elite Guides Logo

Elite Guides is the new name and direction for our business. Previously called Kirkhope Mountaineering, things have grown and changed and so it was time for the business to do the same. Read more...


Elite Guides | Mountain Guide Ratios in the Mountains and what it really means for you, the customer.


How many people can a guide/instructor/leader look after safely whilst in mountaineering terrain? What do I mean by mountaineering terrain? Scrambles and easy rock climbs, somewhere that your guide/Instructor may choose to or be expected to use a rope at times to safeguard you. Read more..


Guiding ratios in the mountains

Skye Cuillin Ridge traverse - tips and tactics


The Cuillin Ridge traverse is high on many a British climbers tick list and is becoming more and more known around the world as a great adventure. The Isle of Skye isn't exactly on most peoples doorsteps though and coming up for a traverse attempt takes time, money and commitment. Read More..


Cuillin Ridge traverse rack

PLB's, SPOT and the Garmin inReach comparison.

PLB, SPOT, Garmin comparison

I bought myself an emergency communication device this summer for personal and professional use and after lots of discussions with people, I thought it would be useful for others if I shared my findings/thoughts to help others decide if a device is for them, or which one might suit them best. Read more...