3 Day Cuillin Ridge Traverse

Two mountaineers stand atop a rocky mountain ridge at sunrise, wearing helmets and climbing gear, with a mountain landscape and sunrise in the background.

What's Involved:

  • Scrambling, rock climbing, and abseiling

  • All technical sections led by a fully qualified mountaineering and climbing instructor

  • Private guiding ensures the experience is tailored to your pace and goals

  • Flexible dates to match your availability and maximise the chance of success

  • Kit and food advice provided in advance to help you prepare

Important Notes:

  • Good fitness and confidence in mountainous terrain are essential

  • If weather prevents an overnight traverse, we offer 3 single-day alternatives, possibly venturing off-island to find optimal conditions. Your guide may offer alternative dates if there is availability to do this, but this is not a guarantee.

  • Our ridge experiences are offered on a private guiding basis, built around your availability and goals. This is a 3-day booking: two days dedicated to the traverse itself, with an extra day held in reserve to work around bad weather— because in the mountains, flexibility is key.

  • PRICE

    (Guide : Client ratio)

    • 1:1 – £990

    • 1:2 – £1080(both participants must know each other, have similar fitness levels and objectives)

    LOCATION

    Meeting at Sligachan Hotel before driving a shuttle around to Glenbrittle.

    Click here for directions

    Meeting time: Will vary. Your guide will discuss timings closer to departure date.

    ACCOMODATION

    Air bnb

    The island fills up with accommodation bookings very quickly in the summer months, it is recommended to book in advance.

  • PERSONAL KIT TO BRING

    Overnight Kit

    • Bivy Bag – Lightweight, breathable (Gore-Tex or similar recommended)

    • Sleeping Bag – Lightweight 2- or 3-season sleeping bag

    • Sleeping Mat – Closed cell foam mat (e.g. Karrimat) or small inflatable (beware of punctures on sharp Skye rock)

    Food & Eating Gear

    • Meals – Dehydrated breakfast and dinner packets (avoid heavy pre-hydrated meals)

    • Lunch & Snacks – Two days' worth (energy bars, dried fruit, etc.)

    • Spoon & Mug – As lightweight as possible

    Footwear:

    • Approach shoes or B1 lightweight summer walking boots

      (ask Jack or Ella for advice if you are unsure)

    Clothing

    Base & Mid Layers

    • Socks – Medium to thick synthetic or wool/synthetic blend

    • Base Layers – Thermal or moisture-wicking (avoid cotton)

    • Fleece – At least one; consider adding a fleece vest/gilet for extra warmth

    • Extra Layer – Pack an additional fleece or synthetic insulation layer in a waterproof bag

    Outerwear

    • Wind shirt or Softshell Jacket – Ideal for dry conditions

    • Walking Trousers – Polycotton, polyester, or softshell

    • Warm Hat & Gloves – Essential, even in summer
      (Leather gardening/work gloves are durable and ideal for Skye)

    • Waterproof Jacket & Over trousers – Lightweight shell; trousers should have at least knee-length zips for fitting over boots

    Packing

    • Rucksack – 40–50L capacity, suitable for an overnight bivy

    • Rucksack Liner – Use a strong plastic liner to keep contents dry (avoid external rain covers)

    Extra Essentials

    • Head Torch – With spare batteries

    • First Aid Kit – Small personal kit with blister treatment, medications, suncream, and sunglasses

    • Water Bottles – 1–2L total (consider one bladder + one solid bottle for versatility)

    • Trekking Pole(s) – Optional, but helpful for descents
      (Bring one lightweight, collapsible pole to save space)

    KIT PROVIDED FOR YOUR USE

    • Harness

    • Helmet

    • Karabiner and Sling

    • Belay device and karabiner

    • (sleeping bag and mat can be provided if available)

    • Stove & Gas – Provided by your guide (you may need to carry it)

    All technical climbing equipment—such as ropes and protective gear—is provided by the guide.

Three climbers with helmets and backpacks smiling outdoors with mountains and a clear blue sky in the background.
Two hikers walking along a rocky mountain ridge with a scenic view of mountains and water in the background.
Two climbers with backpacks and helmets ascending a rocky mountain ridge, with rugged mountain peaks and a lake in the background under a partly cloudy sky.