Mountain climbing, Munro bagging and mountain sports in Lochaber
Stronlossit Inn is close to the epicentre of the some of the finest mountain climbing, ice climbing, skiing and snowsports anywhere in the highlands of Scotland, notably the Nevis Range, Ben Nevis and Aonach Mor – but also to the west, the famous peaks and habitats of Creag Meagaidh
Climbing:
Glen Coe is a magnificent playground for the winter mountaineer, with the classic Aonach Eagach ridge on the north side, a good grade III when in condition, and the Bidean Massif on the South with the Buachaille Etive Mor standing guard over the desolate Rannoch Moor. These hills are lower than Ben Nevis but never-the-less provide some superb climbs and mountaineering routes of all standards
The North facing cliffs of Ben Nevis in winter provide serious mountaineering routes and climbs of an Alpine nature. Early starts, efficient climbing, fitness and careful navigation are the order of the day. You must take this mountain seriously as it is very unforgiving of mistakes
The classic Grade V routes - Point Five, Zero Gully, Smiths Route and the Orion Face are known throughout the world. Who would have thought that such unimaginatively named gullies like zero, point five, minus one, minus two would be able to conjure up so much passion, fear and dread and emotion in the very souls of those who have climbed them or are aspiring to
It is very important to note the way off the Ben; most the guide books give the exact bearings from the 'Trig' point on the top. Not all climbs finish at this point, so make sure you know exactly how to get off from where you finish your climb
45 minutes south, Glen Coe is a magnificent playground for the winter mountaineer, with the classic Aonach Eagach ridge on the north side, a good grade III when in condition, and the Bidean Massif on the South with the Buachaille Etive Mor standing guard over the desolate Rannoch Moor. These hills are lower than Ben Nevis but never-the-less provide some superb climbs and mountaineering routes of all standards
To the west, looking up at the rolling hills that lie on the north side of Glen Spean above Loch Laggan you could be forgiven for thinking that they hold little of interest to climbers compared with the mountains of Lochaber to the west and the Cairngorms to the east
From the perspective of the summer rock-climber this is certainly true, but for those who seek adventure in the winter months these hills conceal one of the greatest winter climbing venues in Scotland, the huge cliffs of Creag Meagaidh, Coire Ardair
Skiing:
Nevis Range offers the highest skiing in Scotland, with a great record for good snow conditions running late into the season
Situated beside Ben Nevis needless to say the pistes have a stunning backdrop!
The modern facilities at this well designed ski area offer outstanding opportunities for a wide range of abilities and a great deal of fun in the snow to be had by all!
