Ben Nevis Trek, Scotland

Conquering Ben Nevis
Standing at 1,344 metres (4,406 feet) it may seem tame when compared to Kili, Toubkal or the Alps but make no mistake; Ben Nevis is a challenge for anyone! As the trek starts at sea level, Ben Nevis is always testing, but the rewards are simply spectacular with the Isle of Mull, Isle of Skye, Glencoe and the Cairngorms all visible on a clear day. Climbing steeply up, the landscape gradually transforms from verdant glen to a true wilderness, and you'll reach the highest point in Britain before returning, triumphant but tired, to our hotel.

Pure Adventure
Fort William boasts a wealth of adventurous activities which will put thoughts of sore legs to one side - Experience the beauty on countless other organised walks, or why not try your hand (and your feet) at some of the optional activities available. There's ice climbing in the biggest indoor ice wall in the world, mountain biking to explore the stunning Highlands scenery or canyoning to test your nerve. Alternatively, give your legs a rest and take to the loch on a sea kayaking expedition. The only time you'll want to be sitting down is on the bus back to the hotel.

Comment
A short and exhilarating adventure, packed with activity. You'll need to be in good shape for the long and challenging Ben Nevis walk but the sense of achievement will make it all worthwhile. A fantastic way to spend a weekend!

Detailed Itinerary:
Day 1 - Join tour at Fort William

Day 2 - Climb Ben Nevis
At 1,344m, Ben Nevis is Britain's highest peak. Follow a switchback trail up towards an old Victorian pony trail, which you'll follow until reaching the western and sounthern slopes, offering up the longest and steepest slopes in Britain.

Day 3 - Tour ends in Fort William
The morning involves an organised walk through the Highlands, or a selection of other activities including sea-kayaking through Scotland's island landscapes.

Is this trip for you?
In the Scottish Highlands, the weather is known to be highly unpredictable, so you'll need to be aware that weather conditions can change every hour, particularly on the higher slopes of Ben Nevis. Between April and September, the temperatures around Fort William hang at around 11-15°C, with 4-8 inches of rainfall. Warm clothing are essential on the mountain and you'll also need to be prepared for rain at any time of the year – Ben Nevis receives on average about 170 inches of rain every year, and snow exists on its upper slopes throughout the year. Please note, it may be the case that you'll not get the chance to reach the summit itself if weather conditions make it unsafe to reach the top of the mountain.

During the tour, you will not be accompanied by an Explore tour leader, but a tour representative. The representative will not join you for the entirety of the tour and will rarely join you at the accommodation at night or eat with the group in the evenings. However, they will be available for the group during the included activities and can help with any problems if they arise.

The trip is rated 'Moderate to Strenuous'

Moderate: Medium length walks of around 5 to 7 hours each day. You'll usually travel at low altitudes and along well-maintained trails, but there may be some fairly challenging ascents and descents, up to around 800m each day. You do not necessarily need previous experience, but a moderate level of fitness is required.

Strenuous: Extended and often challenging walks, around 6 to 8 hours per day in length. Expect some challenging terrain and sometimes high-altitude trekking. Ascents and descents are particularly demanding, up to about 1000m per day. High levels of fitness and stamina are necessary. Some previous trekking experience is recommended.