Cuillin Ridge Traverse – Guided Adventure
Embark on the UK’s most iconic mountaineering challenge – the Cuillin Ridge Traverse on the Isle of Skye. At 13km in length, with an additional 7km approach and descent, and over 3,000m of total ascent, this is a serious test of endurance, skill, and determination. Spanning two long days, each up to 12 hours on foot, this traverse demands strong hill fitness and a resilient mindset.
Carrying a lightweight rucksack (no more than 9kg), including your overnight kit, food, and technical equipment, you’ll be guided through one of the most dramatic and remote mountain landscapes in the UK.
What's Involved:
Scrambling, rock climbing, and abseiling, both with and without ropes
All technical sections led by a fully qualified mountain guide
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
Best attempted solo or in a pair with similar fitness and objectives
If weather prevents an overnight traverse, we offer 3 flexible single-day alternatives, possibly venturing off-island to find optimal conditions
Whether you're chasing a lifelong goal or seeking the ultimate mountaineering experience in the UK, the Cuillin Ridge Traverse is a bucket-list adventure for committed climbers and scramblers.
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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 — because in the mountains, flexibility is key.
We keep ratios low for safety and quality:
1:1 – £1020
1:2 – £1140 (both participants must know each other, have similar fitness levels and objectives)
Should the weather turn, we won’t waste your time. Instead, we’ll switch to three single climbing days, with the option to travel off the island in search of the best conditions.
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Location: Meeting at Sligachan Hotel before driving a shuttle around to Glenbrittle.
Meeting time: Will vary. Your guide will discuss timings closer to departure date.
Accommodation options:
The island fills up with accommodation bookings very quickly in the summer months, it is recommended to book in advance.
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🏕️ Overnight Kit
Bivouac Equipment
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.)
Stove & Gas – Provided by your guide (you may need to carry it)
Spoon & Mug – As lightweight as possible
🧥 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 & Storage
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)Boots – Sturdy scrambling boots with good lateral stiffness (B1-rated recommended)
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🧭 Why Go Guided? More Than Just a Safety Net
In the mountains, a good guide does more than just lead the way — they bring the landscape to life.
Your guide isn't just someone who knows the route. They know the land’s story — its geology, history, and hidden features you'd likely pass by unnoticed. With deep local knowledge, they unlock the mountain in a way maps and apps never could.
But first and foremost? Safety.
Especially on complex ridges, where navigation becomes a serious challenge under cloud, a guide makes the difference between second-guessing and success.They know where to find water when the ground looks bone dry, how to choose the best line for your ability, and when to adjust plans based on real-time conditions.
Because when the terrain gets tough, it’s not just about reaching the summit — it’s about doing it smartly, safely, and with a deeper connection to the mountain under your feet.