Plas y Brenin Brochure 2014

MOUNTAIN SPORTS HOLIDAYS AND OUTDOOR ACTIVITY COURSES AT

PLAS Y BRENIN

2014 THE NATIONAL MOUNTAIN SPORTS CENTRE

www.pyb.co.uk 1

SO SPECIAL SPECIAL WHAT MAKES PYB SO MARTIN DOYLE - CHIEF EXECUTIVE anD BRITISH MOUNTAIN GUIDE Welcome to our latest brochure and our plans for 2014. We’ve given things a facelift this year and we've done our best to include something for everyone. Whether you want to qualify as an outdoor leader, instructor or coach, improve your skills as an individual, join us as a club for a dinner or event or introduce your family or pupils to the outdoors, you should find just the thing here at the National Mountain Sports Centre. As you flick through the pages we hope you are inspired to call us up or call in for a chat and let us help turn your dreams into adventures. We hope to see you in 2014.

HOTEL STANDARD ACCOMMODATION Plas y Brenin is a long, long way from the outdoor centres you remember from your school days. Our guests are always pleasantly surprised at the high standard of food and accommodation we provide. All our bedrooms are en-suite, with a range of options available from cosy singles to large family rooms. The food we serve in our scenic dining room is the highlight of many of our customer reviews. Our meals are freshly prepared using locally sourced ingredients. We always have a range of options on offer and if you let us know in advance we are more than happy to cater for any dietary requirements.

THE LATEST GEAR As a world class sporting facility we are committed to making sure everything about your course or holiday at Plas y Brenin is absolutely first rate. Our equipment

As an outdoor centre, Plas y Brenin is truly unique. Aside from being one of Sport England’s three National Sports Centres, Plas y Brenin has a unique management structure. Managed by the Mountain Training Trust, a charity set up

by Mountaineering’s key National Governing Bodies, The National Mountain Sports Centre is focused on providing opportunities that allow every individual to achieve their goals and realise their potential in mountain sports.

Since it’s inception, The Mountain Training Trust has developed to embrace a wider range of mountain sports and their representing bodies. Aside form it’s founder organisations, The British Mountaineering Council, Mountain Training UK and Mountain Training England, The Mountain Training Trust now has very close partnerships with British Cycling, Canoe England, British Orienteering, The Duke Of Edinburgh’s Award and The Ramblers Association.

Their strong involvement allows Plas y Brenin to develop facilities, courses, holidays and many other opportunities that are great news for not only you, but also great news for outdoor sports.

AN UNRIVALLED LOCATION Tucked away in the heart of Snowdonia on the banks of Llyn Mymbyr with unspoiled mountains all around, a place doesn’t come much more beautiful. But it’s not just the tranquil beauty that makes Plas y Brenin such a great venue for mountain sports, the location brings many more benefits. For rock climbing and scrambling, the variety of rock types, grades aspects and challenges on offer is completely unrivalled in the UK. For mountain biking, mountaineering and hillwalking the variety of terrain at your fingertips is hard to beat an the views in store have sold a million postcards. For paddling, again variety is our strength, with lakes, rivers, estuaries, surf beaches and rugged coastal water to choose from, depending on the weather, condidtions and water levels. Whichever way you turn there is always an adventure waiting to be had.

stores only use the best equipment and the stores team are passionate about maintaining every piece of kit in perfect working order. But the good news for you is that all your equipment hire is included in the course fee. So you can borrow anything you need at no extra cost.

UNBEATABLE FACILITIES No other outdoor centre can match our on-site facilities.

A beautiful lake and river at the bottom of the garden, two indoor climbing walls, a purpose built abseil tower, an indoor heated kayak rolling pool, a mountain bike skills course and pump track, a low ropes course and twenty digitally mapped orienteering courses. Not to mention countless AV equipped classrooms and a 130 seat lecture room with 18ft PC screen.

THE HIGHEST STANDARDS OF COACHING AND LEADERSHIP Our coaches are amongst the most highly qualified and most experienced in the world. But it’s not just their knowledge and experience that secures the coveted position of instructor at The National Mountain Centre. We look for far more than sporting prowess. As well as being world class climbers, mountaineers, riders or paddlers, our staff are skilled and dedicated coaches. Each one is dedicated to making sure you get the most out of your sport, whatever your goals.

Throughout this brochure we’ve tried to highlight the unique depth and diversity of knowledge, experience and commitment our staff posses. You’ll find bitesize stories of their achievements in the UK and around the world from cover to cover. But as you can imagine, their stories are too many to tell in full here. If you’d like to find out what they’ve been up to recently, keep an eye on our Facebook page or better still, pay us a visit.

2

4

Sport England is focused on the creation of a world-leading community sport system. We are committed to growing and sustaining participation in sport and helping more people to excel and fulfil their potential.

In 2011 Sport England awarded a 15 year contract to the Mountain Training Trust to manage Plas y Brenin. This renewed partnership provides the long term security for the centre and provides even greater opportunities for adventure sports to contribute to Sport England’s participation and growth targets as well as enabling Plas y Brenin to support the whole sport plans of key NGBs such as BMC, BC and BCU. In our continued excellent partnership we have used our support and expertise to help Plas y Brenin provide a wide range of sporting opportunities including new initiatives such as cycling. We take some of you into the mountains for the first time and others further than you ever thought possible.

Sport England, 3rd Floor Victoria House, Bloomsbury Square, London WC1B 4SE Tel: 020 7273 1500 Fax: 020 7383 5740 Web: www.sportengland.org

WHAT’S NEW IN 2014 As always, there’s plenty going on at Plas y Brenin. Most noticeably this year, we’ve refurbished all our in-house bedrooms to an incredibly high standard. We know you’ll love the modern, cosy new look. But it’s not all about comfort, it’s about convenience for you as a guest too.

GET STARTED MOUNTAIN BIKING

9

HILLWALKING

10-11 13

ROCK CLIMBING

14-17

WINTER WALKING, MOUNTAINEERING & CLIMBING

20-23

OFF PISTE SKIING

24-25

ALPINE MOUNTAINEERING

26-27

MOUNTAIN QUALIFICATIONS

29-35

RAPID DEVELOPMENT

36

FAST TRACK INSTRUCTOR

37

FIRST AID

41

KAYAKING & SEA KAYAKING

along with the old favourites. We’ve reviewed our prices and held course-prices where we possibly can. In quite a few cases we’ve brought prices down, making it more affordable for you to visit The National Mountain Sports Centre.

If you are a volunteer looking for vital National Governing Body training courses, the Future Leaders Fund (see page 31), is now firmly established and can help you save up to 75% on your training or assessment fees.

If you are currently serving in the joint services, we are a registered ELCAS Provider and many of our top-level courses are recognised as appropriate for funding as part of the Enhanced Learning Credit Scheme (see page 64).

We’ve reacted to your requests, programming more courses at the times you asked for including Easter weekend family specials and a ‘Super Rapid Development Clinic’ that fits inside the school holidays. And for those looking for a last minute bargain we continue to run our Packed and Ready discounts page on our website. (www.pyb.co.uk).

You’ll notice we’ve made a few changes to our brochure too, making it easier for you to compare courses and prices and for anyone who lives locally, you can simply knock £30 per night of any of our courses and book on a nonresidential basis.

Have a look through and don’t forget to keep an eye on our social media networks for up-to-date information and offers.

6-8

ROAD CYCLING

SCRAMBLING & MOUNTAINEERING

We’ve made sure every room has a modern en-suite bathroom with hot water on-demand to help wash away the mud, salt and sweat from your tired limbs. We’ve improved our insulation and fitted secondary glazing to keep you warm in winter, whilst saving vital energy into the bargain. We have improved our green credentials across the board too, recycling more, conserving more energy and using green transport alternatives wherever possible.

We’ve installed personal safes in every room so you can rest assured your valuables are completely secure whilst you are out of your room and in 2014 each room will also be installed with a flat screen TV & WiFi enabled, so you’ll be able to enjoy down-time in your room at the end of the day.

We now have a well-equipped fitness and conditioning suite where you’ll be able do a little extra training or rehabilitation.

We’ve introduced a regular physiotherapy clinic and a sports massage service, to help you sooth any aches or pains.

As usual, this year have all kinds of new courses on offer,

5

42-47

CANOEING

50

SAFETY & RESCUE

51

PADDLESPORT QUALIFICATIONS

52-55

FAMILY ADVENTURE

56-57

SUMMER CAMPS FOR 12-17 YEAR OLDS

58-59

THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH’S AWARD ADVENTURES FOR GROUPS AND SCHOOLS

60 61-63

AWARDS AND BURSARIES

64

BUSINESSES AND ORGANISATIONS

65

SELF CATERING COTTAGES CLUB EVENTS

66-67 69

FACILITIES & USEFUL INFORMATION

72-73

BOOKING FORM/TERMS & CONDITIONS

74-75

ENGINEERED FOR THE EXTREME

TTrusted rusted by extreme mountain climbers and mountain guides guides,, the new GORETEX® Pro product technology redefines the standard GORE-TEX comfor t and protection: delivering for comfort delivering more ruggedness* and up to breathability* with uncompromised durable, waterproof, 28 % more breathability* waterproof, windproof protection. The new GORE-TEX GORE-TEX® Pro product technology gear.

– the choice for leading brands of outdoor gear.

THE NEW GORE-TEX GORE-TEX® P PRO RO PRODUC PRODUCTS TS

* Compared to previous GORE-TEX GORE-TEX ® Pro products

gore-tex.com

© 2012 W. W. L. Gore & Associates Associates GmbH. GORE-TEX, GORE-TEX, GUARANTEED GUARANTEED TO TO KEEP KEEP Y YOU OU DRY DRY,, GORE and designs are trademarks of W W.. L. Gore & Associa Associates tes

GEt GETStartED STARTED

Exciting, breathtaking, invigorating, eye-opening, enlightening. Words can’t begin to explain the appeal of our action-packed, fun-filled multi-activity courses. Whether you stay for a weekend or a full five days you’re sure to have the time of your life trying out a variety of adventure sports including rock climbing, abseiling, canoeing, kayaking, orienteering and mountain walking. You’ll have a chance to feel what it’s like to plunge through foaming rapids in a canoe, abseil effortlessly down a cliff face, and work against the clock as you search for hidden markers using only a finely detailed map and compass. But don’t worry, you’ll always have one of our expert instructors keeping a careful eye on your progress and you’ll never be more than a short stroll away from a hot shower and the welcome comfort of our scenic bar.

So join us on the adventure of a lifetime and who knows, it may even be the start of a new pastime.

DISCOVER ADVENTURE SPORTS

2 DAYS

If you've never tried any of the increasingly popular adventure sports this is a perfect way to have a go. A fast moving weekend takes you on a whirlwind tour of canoeing, kayaking, climbing and abseiling. It's fast, fun and exciting and you'll always be in safe hands with some of the best outdoor instructors in Britain keeping an eye on you.

We supply all the necessary technical equipment so all you need to bring with you is enthusiasm.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none required.

17-18 MAY

14-15 JUN

12-13 JUL

30-31 AUG

27-28 SEP

EXPLORE ADVENTURE SPORTS

£190

3 DAYS

An extended weekend allowing you to try out a little more than is possible on our Discover Adventure Sports weekend. As well as getting to grips with rock climbing and learning to abseil safely, you’ll have a go at kayaking and canoeing, trying out all kinds of boats including stand up paddle boards. You’ll also get the chance to go on a watery adventure journey using ropes, harnesses and other safety gear to negotiate your way around a rocky sea level traverse or up a steep river gorge. All exciting outdoor stuff and all great fun.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none required.

19-21 APR

3-5 MAY

24-26 MAY

£305

23-25 AUG

INTRODUCTION TO ADVENTURE SPORTS

5 DAYS

You'll need some energy to keep up with the pace on this one. During the week you will have a go at a range of adventure sports including canoeing, kayaking, climbing, abseiling, gorge-walking, orienteering, and mountain walking. Each day you’ll enjoy coaching from our vastly experienced and highly qualified coaches, keeping you safe and making sure you enjoy each challenge to the full.

So why not join us this year and open your eyes to a new world of adventure.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none required.

31 MAR-4 APR 14-18 APR

5-9 MAY 23-27 JUN

30 JUN-4 JUL 25-29 AUG

22-26 SEP 6-10 OCT

13-17 OCT

£405

5

Mountain Biking Mountain Biking

Here at Plas y Brenin we are surrounded by some of the finest mountain biking routes in Europe. We have world class single track routes like the Marin Trail in the Gwydyr forest and Penmachno Trail right outside the back door and other classic trails at Coed y Brenin and Coed Llandegla only a few minutes away. And this year we even have our own purpose built Mountain Bike Skills Course and Pump Track - perfect for developing your riding.

As the National Mountain Centre we’re keen to make sure that people enjoy the mountains in a safe and responsible way, allowing them to have even more fun. That’s why we are offering an extended list of both recreational and vocational mountain bike courses. If you want to improve your skills, or simply ride in good company we have some great weeklong and weekend courses on these pages.

As part of any of our mountain bike courses you will be expected to bring your own bike, helmet and cycling equipment. Please make sure your bike is safe, roadworthy and well maintained. If it is not, you may be unable to take part in the course.

2 DAYS

DISCOVER MOUNTAIN BIKING

Got a mountain bike but never really use it? Ride on the road but find the off-road stuff a bit scary?

Don’t worry you are not alone. Loads of people lack the confidence to ride off road and the thought of riding on those rocky, narrow, mud splattered trails fills them with dread. A weekend spent with our coaches will boost your confidence, improve your balance and develop your riding technique, leaving you eager to get out there and explore the trails with your friends. Starting with gentle terrain our coaches will help you smoothly progress onto more difficult tracks. You’ll be amazed at what you can achieve with the right skills and a little confidence.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - you should have your own bike and kit and be capable of riding for 4-5 hours each day 29-30 MAR 26-27 APR

24-25 MAY 7-8 JUN

28-29 JUN 5-6 JUL

11-12 OCT

8-9 NOV

£175

2 DAYS

MOUNTAIN BIKE IMPROVER

Want to get more out of your mountain biking? Let us improve your riding skills and build your confidence. Find out all about the attack position, better braking, slick gear changing, cornering, weight shift for up hills and down hills, line choice and front and rear wheel lifts. This fun weekend will take you along a mixture of the natural and man made tracks that surround Plas y Brenin, giving you a varied experience that will help you to develop all round skills.

An ideal choice for anyone who is reasonably fit but lacks confidence riding on rocky, steep or unpredictable ground.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - you should have your own bike and kit. You will have completed a few rides already and be capable of riding for 4-5 hours on rugged terrain 18-19 JAN 12-13 APR

3-4 MAY 31 MAY-1 JUN

16-17 AUG 30-31 AUG

27-28 OCT

22-23 NOV

£195

2 DAYS

PERFORMANCE MOUNTAIN BIKE COACHING

The perfect way for Intermediate mountain bikers to develop their riding skills. High staff to student ratios combined with top level coaching give maximum opportunity for improvement on this two-day personal improvement programme based at our own skills track and out on the local top class mountain bike trails.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - Happy on blue graded and red graded trails.

1-2 FEB 8-9 FEB

6

12-13 APR 10-11 MAY

19-20 JUL

23-24 AUG

11-12 OCT

£235

3 DAYS

GUIDED CLASSIC RIDES

Over three days, our mountain bike guides will take you on a tour of some of the finest natural and man made mountain bike trails in Europe including some hidden gems not to be found in any guide book.

From technical single track to rolling remote mountain routes, you’ll see it all as each day you set out on a new adventure.

Apart from enjoying the varied riding and beautiful scenery, you’ll also benefit from sessions on technical riding skills, navigation, running repairs and learn plenty about the mountain environment too.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - fit enough to ride for 4-5 hours a day for three continuous days.

28-30 MAR 3-5 MAY

16-18 MAY

31 MAY-2 JUN

23-25 AUG

25-27 OCT

£255

2 DAYS

BIG MOUNTAIN RIDES

Two days of big off-road routes. Each day you’ll travel off into the high mountains with our mountain bike coaches looking for adventure. No trail centres on the list on this weekend, just hard-won peaks and rapid-fire descents. Big uphills, big downhills and big smiles all round. This is the stuff mountain bikes were made for.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - fit enough to ride for 4-5 hours for two days running.

19-20 APR

12-13 JUL

13-14 SEP

8-9 NOV

6-7 DEC

£195

2 DAYS

DOWNHILL SKILLS

Get a lift up and ride down on this weekend spent enjoying the best bits of mountain biking - the downhills. We’ll provide a vehicle to ferry you up to the top of the hills, minimizing the uphill pedalling. You’ll be able to enjoy close technique coaching from our mountain bike coaches and get lots and lots of downhill practice. And every time you reach the bottom, a vehicle will be wating to speed you back up to the top.

You are sure to learn plenty, but above all, you’ll have lots of fun on the kind of weekend that makes you remember what it was like to be a kid.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - Red Trail Centre Rider 11-12 JAN 8-9 MAR 17-18 MAY 15-16 FEB 15-16 MAR 12-13 JUL

27-28 SEP

15-16 NOV

£235

2 DAYS

THE SNOWDON CHALLENGE

A weekend that includes an attempt to ride up and down Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales.

Day one is an intense ‘shake down’ day where, on a long ride in the mountains, your coach will assess your skills, offering valuable input to help you get the most out of day two - the summit bid!

On day two you’ll attempt to ride (and occasionally carry) your bike to the summit of Snowdon. The epic ascent is followed by an equally epic descent. You’ll need to be fit, with nerves of steel too as the descent is Scottish black run standard loose scree, large boulders, rocky steps, steep drop offs and winding technical trails - tough but rideable all the way. Are you up to the challenge?

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - a high level of biking fitness, reasonable technical skills and a cool head.

22-23 MAR

4-5 OCT

GREAT WELSH RIDES

18-19 OCT

1-2 NOV

£225

3 DAYS

The mountain biking in North Wales is superb and varied. Although a few centres are well publicised, the average rider doesn’t even know about most of the routes that exist . Why not join us on this three day course designed to showcase the very best that North Wales can offer. From rolling mountain sides and green valleys to eerie slate quarrys and deep, dark forests, North wales has it all on offer and once you’ve experienced it with us you’ll know where to take your mates next time you visit.

So why not join our coaches as they take you on a tour of their greatest Welsh rides, featuring a combination of man-made and natural trails.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - regular trail centre rider who wants to spread their wings and uncover more in North Wales.

9-11 APR 4-6 JUN 9-11 JUL 10-12 SEP 5-7 NOV £255 30 APR-2 MAY

ROB SPENCER - MTB COACH anD MOUNTAIN GUIDE As Operations manager at Plas y Brenin Rob has been a committed outdoor enthusiast all his life, focused on achieving the highest level of performance possible at every sport he takes up. Most recently Rob turned his sporting talents to downhill mountain biking with impressive results. Here are his thoughts on the process.

“Plas y Brenin is an amazing place to broaden your horizons whether you are a guest or a member of staff. I first came to the Brenin to work as a Mountain Guide but soon found that I developed a love for kayaking and became a sea kayak and white water coach. An aging body slowed down my progress and I realised it was time for a new challenge. Already a regular mountain biker, I soon came up with a plan to improve my knowledge and skills to compete in the biggest and maddest bike race in the world – ‘The Megavalanche’. The two year plan involved a lot of hard training, coaching, planning and preparation but ultimately lead to success and I now compete regularly in mass start races.

It’s great to have a goal and a challenge. I have no idea what my next challenge will be - all I know is that there will be one - of that I have absolutely no doubt.”

7

MOUNTAIN BIKE LEADERSHIP QUALIFICATIONS

If you lead groups in the outdoors whether as a professional or on a voluntary basis, the mountain bike qualifications listed here may be of use to you. We have joined forces with British Cycling to develop and deliver their Level 2 and Level 3 Mountain Bike Leadership Awards. We are convinced these awards will ensure that leaders and riders enjoy safer, more enjoyable and more challenging rides in more adventurous places.

LEVEL 2 BRITISH CYCLING MOUNTAIN BIKE LEADERSHIP TRAINING

2 DAYS

British Cycling's Level 2 Mountain Bike Leadership Award enables experienced mountain bikers to safely guide riders in the mountains and make sure they have a great day out.

When operating in the great outdoors it is crucial that a mountain bike leader is properly trained and qualified to deal with all eventualities. The Level 2 qualification builds your confidence as a leader in a variety of terrain, while allowing you the freedom to tailor rides to suit you and your group's needs.

You are also required to submit a written assignment which is an open-book, home-study task and comprises of a range of short answer questions. This task is based on the information included in the British Cycling Level 2 Mountain Bike Leadership Handbook and other resources provided on the course.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE 18 years old or over with a current 2 Day Outdoor First Aid Certificate, regsitered with British Cycling and have filled in your logbook (supplied when you register with British Cycling).

3-4 MAY 25-26 SEP 9-10 OCT 30-31 OCT 13-14 DEC £250 14-15 JUN

LEVEL 2 BRITISH CYCLING MOUNTAIN BIKE LEADERSHIP ASESSMENT 1 DAY This practical assessment consists of an all-day mountain bike journey during which each candidate will be assigned to lead a section of the assessment route of up to 10km working with a ratio of 1:5. You will be expected to deliver a flowing journey whilst demonstrating good leadership and navigational skills.

The assessment procedure is informal and is designed to help you develop your skills as a mountain bike leader. The group you lead can consist of other riders who are also being assessed on the same day and/ or riders who are there, simply to fulfil the role as participants on the ride.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE Must have successfully attended a Level 2 Mountain Bike Leadership Training Course.

5 APR

10 MAY

19 JUL

18 OCT

RESISDENTIAL NON-RES

£125

£95

LEVEL 3 BRITISH CYCLING MOUNTAIN BIKE LEADERSHIP TRAINING 3 DAYS The Level 3 Certificate in Coaching Mountain Bike is aimed at those qualified at Level 2 Mountain Bike who wish to develop their knowledge of the unique challenges of the sport and begin to prescribe training for individual riders.

The qualification will give you the ability and knowledge to plan, deliver and evaluate detailed personalised training programmes and introduce you to a number of advanced techniques and tactics to further enhance your coaching sessions.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE Must have successfully attended a Level 2 Mountain Bike Leadership Assessment Course.

PLEASE SEE WWW.PYB.CO.UK FOR DATES AND MORE DETAILS

8

£300

ROAD CYCLING

The cycling in Snowdonia is simply breathtaking. We have it all, long sweeping valleys, winding alpine style climbs, narrow isolated lanes, towering cliff top coastal roads and tranquil riverside b-roads. All you need is to know where to find these hidden gems and how to link one to the other. That’s where our cycling guides come in.

Our road cycling guides know the area like the back of their hand so they can make sure you get the most from your cycling holiday, they will help you make the most of the weather, seek out the best scenery, tailor the ride to your group’s ability and even find the best ice cream shop.

Whether you’re looking for a week of energetic sightseeing on two wheels or an intense weekend of ‘lung-busting’ climbs, we have just the thing. Take a look and see what suits you best.

As part of any of our cycling holidays you will be expected to bring your own bike which we will provide a safe and secure storage facility for. Please ensure your bike is roadworthy and well maintained. If it is not, you may be unable to take part in the ride.

2 DAYS

DISCOVER SNOWDONIA

Two sightseeing rides through the mountains of Snowdonia. Let our guides take you along some of the most beautiful countryside in the UK, using roads that you’d be unlikely to find on your own.

Great riding in good company at a sociable pace.

MILEAGE - Covering up to 40 miles each day, taking in some steep hills.

IDEAL FOR - Regular touring cyclists who are looking for something slightly more demanding.

5-6 APR

24-25 MAY

7-8 JUN

6-7 SEP

£195

2 DAYS

‘THE MONSTER’

Not for the feint hearted, this weekend takes you on two big guided rides through the mountains of Snowdonia, taking as many steep climbs as our guides can find on the map. Lots of miles, lots of climbs, lots of sweat - and if that’s what you are into, lots of fun.

MILEAGE - Covering up to 80 miles each day, with numerous steep climbs.

IDEAL FOR - Regular, committed road cyclists, triathletes, or adventure racers. Ideal preparation for anyone training for an etape, sportive or other big cycling event.

3-4 MAY

16-17 AUG

£195

13-14 SEP

2 DAYS

SPORTIF PREPARATION WEEKEND

Preparing for a Sportif? What better place to do it in than North Wales with quiet roads and a mixture of flat riding, gentle hills and big climbs to ensure you are fully prepared for any terrain a Sportif could throw at you. Including sessions on kit, nutrition, strength and conditioning.

MILEAGE - Covering around 40-60 miles or possibly more if you fancy it on the day.

IDEAL FOR - Anyone training for their first major cycling event.

29-30 MAR

17-18 MAY

19-20 JUL

6-7 SEP

£195

20% Member discount on our self catering bunkhouses or farmhouse for your group, club or team. The ideal base to ride Snowdonia’s mountains from (see p 66-67).

9

HILLWALKING HILLWALKING

Whether you want to walk through peaceful, unspoilt hillsides and paths or you’d rather scramble up exposed rocky ridges, Snowdonia has everything on offer. The towering peaks of Tryfan, Snowdon and the surrounding mountains are riddled with technical scrambling and mountaineering challenges whilst the beautiful lakes and rolling hills below provide a tranquil setting for more relaxing walks.

On our summer hillwalking courses our highly skilled instructors help you gain all the skills, techniques and, most of all, the confidence you need to travel further in the hills under your own steam. So whatever you’re looking for, from a weekend of breathtaking ridges to a relaxing week strolling through the hills, you’re sure to find just the thing at Plas y Brenin.

2 DAYS

CLASSIC WEEKEND WALKS

Walking alongside our experienced and knowledgeable instructors, you’ll enjoy two days of beautiful mountain scenery.

Taking a comfortable pace through remote rugged countryside you’ll also have a chance to see a wide range of flora and fauna and some of the most impressive views Snowdonia has to offer. You are bound to go home with some great memories and plenty of photos.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none required.

1-2 FEB 5-6 APR 2-3 AUG 27-28 SEP 15-16 NOV £195 15-16 MAR 14-15 JUN 6-7 SEP 18-19 OCT

5 DAYS

SNOWDONIA’S CLASSIC WALKS

Why not explore the picturesque hills of Snowdonia with our experienced instructors? On each of the five days you’ll walk at your own, comfortable pace through remote, beautiful countryside taking in views from classic mountains like Snowdon, Tryfan, the Carneddau, and the Glyders.

You’ll also have a chance to study the mountain flora and fauna that thrive in these isolated areas so don’t forget to bring your camera.

In the evenings you can attend talks on subjects like mountain clothing and equipment, navigation and emergency procedures, or simply relax and enjoy a chat in the bar whilst absorbing the mountain atmosphere.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none required.

24-28 FEB 2-6 JUN 21-25 JUL 17-21 MAR 30 JUN-4 JUL 18-22 AUG 5-9 MAY

HILLWALKING WEEKEND

8-12 SEP 29 SEP-3 OCT

3-7 NOV 10-14 NOV

£460

2 DAYS

For most people the breathtaking views Snowdonia has to offer are only seen on postcards. If you’re one of those people here’s your opportunity to see that scenery first hand on two guided walks in some of Snowdonia's most iconic landscapes. Throughout the weekend our local instructors will be on hand to offer advice on how you can enjoy the hills under your own steam, making sure you get to know the area and pick up some basic hillwalking skills in the process.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none required.

22-23 FEB 7-8 JUN 9-10 AUG 11-12 OCT 1-2 NOV £195 10-11 MAY 19-20 JUL 20-21 SEP

10

20% Member discount on our self catering bunkhouses or farmhouse for your group or club. The ideal base to walk Snowdonia’s beautiful mountains from (see p 66-67).

5 DAYS

HILLWALKING SKILLS

If you’re a regular hillwalker but lack the confidence to stray off the beaten track, then this five-day course will help to improve your navigation, route planning, and knowledge of both emergency procedures and the mountain environment.

Throughout this practical course you will have the opportunity to explore the dramatic higher peaks of Snowdonia, and travel over some of its wilder terrain.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - an interest in hillwalking rather than experience is important.

24-28 FEB 24-28 MAR 14-18 APR

28 APR-2 MAY 26-30 MAY

23-27 JUN 7-11 JUL

25-29 AUG 22-26 SEP

24-28 NOV 1-5 DEC

£460

2 DAYS

DISCOVER NAVIGATION

Let our instructors take you through every aspect of basic navigation from symbols, scales and grid references to ground shape, measuring distance, taking bearings and using a compass. The perfect course to equip you with the basic skills to explore the mountains with confidence.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - no navigation experience required.

22-23 FEB 15-16 MAR 5-6 APR

3-4 MAY 31 MAY-1 JUN 14-15 JUN

5-6 JUL 26 -27 JUL 30-31 AUG

13-14 SEP 27-28 SEP

25-26 OCT 1-2 NOV

COMPLETE NAVIGATION

£215

5 DAYS

Over the course of these five days you’ll develop from having little or no navigational experience to having a firm understanding of mountain navigation techniques. You’ll look at the traditional methods of navigation, using a map and compass before moving on to examine the benefits that modern technology can bring, using a handheld GPS system.

All of this will, of course, be wrapped up with plenty of walking in the hills, putting everything into practice in real situations to further your understanding.

A great way to rapidly develop a well rounded knowledge of mountain navigation or to consolidate and expand a basic grasp of traditional techniques.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - no navigation experience required.

13-17 JAN 21-25 APR 1-5 SEP 3-7 NOV 24-28 NOV 10-14 FEB 2-6 JUN 20-24 OCT 17-21 NOV 8-12 DEC £460 10-14 MAR

2 DAYS

NAVIGATION SKILLS

If you need to develop your navigation skills or your navigation is not as good as you would like, then this two day course provides an ideal opportunity to refine your technique. You will cover all aspects of advanced navigation and leave capable of finding your way confidently day or night and in bad weather. A practical night navigation exercise will be included on dates between the beginning of September and the end of March.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE- basic navigation skills.

8-9 FEB 12-13 APR

14-15 JUN 2-3 AUG

6-7 SEP 27-28 SEP

18-19 OCT 8-9 NOV

15-16 NOV 6-7 DEC

£215

2 DAYS

RELOCATION, RELOCATION, RELOCATION

An enlightening weekend designed for accomplished mountain navigators. Spend two days developing a set of reliable and effective techniques to get you back on track if you find yourself unsure of where you are. Learn how to take control of the situation and use the information you can gather from what is around you to establish your location and to work out your best and safest onward strategy.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - reliable navigation skills.

25-26 JAN 29-30 MAR 12-13 JUL 23-24 AUG 4-5 OCT 15-16 FEB 14-15 JUN 16-17 AUG 13-14 SEP 25-26 OCT £215 8-9 MAR

5 DAYS

THE PADDY BUCKLEY CHALLENGE

Join us on this five-day guided circuit of ‘The Paddy Buckley Round’. 61 miles of mountainous terrain which takes you up 28,000 feet of ascent to reach 47 peaks across many of the National Park's most beautiful mountains. Five days hill walking allows for a more enjoyable way to experience this traditional fell runner’s route (the record for running the Paddy Buckley Round’s is under 18 hrs).

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - summer hillwalking.

24-28 MAR 28 APR-2 MAY 7-11 JUL

15-19 SEP

20-24 OCT

£460

5 DAYS

FOURTEEN PEAKS CHALLENGE

Join us on this five-day guided traverse attempting to take in all 14 of Snowdonia's highest peaks. Admire the view from the top of some of the National Park's finest mountains on this exciting week-long adventure. Snowdon, Crib Goch, Tryfan, the Glyders, Y Garn and all the Carneddau peaks. Are you up to the challenge?

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - summer hillwalking.

10-14 MAR 31 MAR-4 APR

14-18 APR 5-9 MAY

12-16 MAY 9-13 JUN

14-18 JUL 1-5 SEP

27-31 OCT

£460

20% Member discount on our self catering bunkhouses or farmhouse for your group or club. The ideal base to walk Snowdonia’s mountains from (see p 66-67).

11

CERRO TORRE STU MCALEESE - PYB INSTUCTOR anD BRITISH MOUNTAIN GUIDE On the 13th January 2013 Dave Turnbull, Dan Donovan and Stu McAleese climbed Cerro Torre in Patagonia.

The climb involved a 5 day round trip from Chalten, Argentina. After a patient wait, they took advantage of a four-day weather window, allowing them just enough time to climb the Mountain and get out safely.

Here’s the full story as Stu tells it.

vertical ice to the top. Putting the enemies of doubt and indecision to the back of our minds we moved stealthily upwards, climbing the final 90 degree wall to the summit in impressive time enjoying the amazing experience of approaching the summit mushroom through an ice tunnel.

After a few moments to savour our victory and take photos we knew would be treasured til the end of our days, we began our descent.

Knowing the temperature was rising fast making the ice conditions more unpredictable by the second, we knew we had to move quickly.

Abseiling the whole route almost entirely on ice threads, we arrived back at the bivouac at around seven that evening.

On day four, we began the arduous trek home via the Ice cap, where the complex route finding down the glacier proved a tough test for our tired Our goal, the Ragni route on the West face of Cerro Torre, was in great condition, having been climbed by several climbing teams on Christmas Day, who all reported good climbing ice.

Arriving at Chalten we were faced with three days of poor weather, something I’ve come to expect from Patagonia. This allowed us to carry out some important preparation and ground-research into the mountain conditions. It also gave us an opportunity to shake off the flight fatigue and to top up our fitness with a few amazing treks and a little valley rock climbing on some smaller bolted crags near to the village. We familiarised ourselves with the area and spent valuable time talking to other climbers about the mountain conditions, which is always hugely beneficial in such big terrain.

Day one arrived and we set off, carrying the absolute minimum. It felt like a bit of a gamble, calculating exactly what we would need to eat and what clothing could be required according to the forecast. A calculated gamble that was entirely necessary, if we were to achieve our goal.

We decided to head out into the bad weather, knowing it would ease off as we moved on and give way to good weather that was forecast for the next few days. The terrain ahead was not likely to cause us any problems and using one of the days outside the weather window would allow us to maximise the good conditions when they arrived.

The first day was spent hiking into the Torre Valley up a huge dry glacier between the Fitzroy Massif and the peaks of Cerro Standhardt, Torre Egger and Cerro Torre, ending at a bivouac at Niponeno. We battled against strong winds and driving rain, eventually arriving at the boulder bivi at about five in the evening.

After a welcome sleep in a fairly unwelcoming spot, our second day started at one in the morning. We headed up climbing over Col Standhardt and down to the West Face of Cerro Torre above the Patagonian Ice Cap. We had to climb up through snow and mixed climbing terrain to another bivouac just under the Col Esperanza (Col of Hope). Things were becoming much more difficult now on tricky alpine terrain with some serious rock climbing to be done, all carrying huge rucksacks on our backs.

The sun beating down on us, we arrived at the bivi just under the Col of Hope around 4:30 that afternoon. The long and very physical day had left us drained and more than a little apprehensive about the task that lay ahead. A huge expanse of steep ice and mixed climbing stretched out ahead of us to a long distant summit.

Leaving most of our equipment at the bivi site, we set off at one in the morning carrying nothing but the absolute essentials. One rucksack and a stove meant we could stay light and move as fast as possible.

Whilst we welcomed the freedom and agility this gave us, we were all painfully aware how committed this made us and how much we now relied on the weather holding up it’s promise.

Climbing on steep ice, reaching 90 degree angles on more than a few sections, we clawed our way upwards, thankful of our featherweight status on the mixed climbing through the middle section. Even as we battled we were all enthralled by the natural beauty of this incredible place, in awe of the massive snow flutings and huge vertical sheets of ice and stunning ice formations everywhere.

The weather held and the temperature remained reassuringly cold. As we approached the summit on the final section our minds weighed heavy with concern for the effects of the sun on the final wall of

12

minds and bodies. After safely negotiating the glacier, we decided to spend the fourth night in the warmth and comfort of a little Mountain hut called Piedra de Fraile, returning to Chalten in the morning of day five.

We all felt the effort and difficulty of the last four days. Whilst thankful we’d had the sense to pack in loads of training before the trip, we were all still utterly mentally and physically exhausted and more than a little weathered.

This was just one of those rare trips where everything seemed to fall into place. A strong team, up-to-date beta, a great weather forecast and excellent conditions on the climb, all came together to make climbing Cerro Torre a completely amazing experience.

SCRAMBLING AND MOUNTAINEERING

For the experienced hillwalker, scrambling and mountaineering offers the obvious next step, bridging the gap for many between walking and climbing. Scrambling up to familiar summits by a route too steep and exposed for most to even consider calls for the right mix of careful judgement, delicate footwork and calm determination. Reaching the top brings it’s own unique rewards and is an experience most keen hillwalkers will revel in. So why not give it a try and enjoy learning how to do it for yourself with our mountaineering instructors.

5 DAYS

MOUNTAINEERING SKILLS

Covering the more advanced skills of summer hillwalking and mountaineering, this five day course concentrates on the techniques required for multi-day journeys and travel in the sometimes hostile conditions and rocky terrain encountered in the British mountains. Perfect if you are an experienced hillwalker who wants to develop the necessary techniques of navigation, route finding, expedition camping, basic ropework and hazard awareness needed to look after yourself and your friends or family in the mountains. The course includes a two day expedition with an overnight camp.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - summer hillwalking.

17-21 FEB 17-21 MAR 31 MAR-4 APR

12-16 MAY 2-6 JUN 30 JUN-4 JUL

21-25 JUL 11 -15 AUG

8-12 SEP 6-10 OCT

13-17 OCT 17-21 NOV

£545

2 DAYS

DISCOVER SCRAMBLING

As a summer hillwalker you will often want to go to places which require more specialist techniques than you possess. If you are interested in learning how to move over steep ground safely, perhaps using a rope, then this is the ideal course for you. By the end of the weekend you will have traversed some of Snowdonia’s classic rocky ridges.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - summer hillwalking.

1-2 MAR 17-18 MAY 26-27 JUL 30-31 AUG 4-5 OCT 29-30 MAR 31 MAY-1 JUN 2-3 AUG 13-14 SEP 11-12 OCT 19-20 APR 28-29 JUN 16-17 AUG 27-28 SEP 18-19 OCT £230 10-11 MAY 12-13 JUL 23-24 AUG

5 DAYS

INTRODUCTION TO SCRAMBLING

If you want to develop your hillwalking skills to take you over steeper and more adventurous ground, come with us on this week long scramble through Snowdonia’s highest peaks.

Staying each night at Plas y Brenin, you’ll spend five days far from the beaten track, exploring exciting and demanding classic scrambles, whilst learning everything you need to know about route finding, simple ropework, navigation, equipment selection and how to interpret mountain weather. You’ll cover lots of ground too, helping you get to know the area and unlocking Snowdonia for your future trips.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - summer hillwalking 17-21 FEB 9-13 JUN 30 JUN-4 JUL 15-19 SEP 20-24 OCT £555 10-14 MAR 23-27 JUN 18-22 AUG 22-26 SEP 10-14 NOV

5 DAYS

ADVANCED SCRAMBLING

An introduction to the higher grade scrambles, looking at personal skills and techniques for the safe ascent of grade 2 and 3 scrambles. For those who have done some of the classic grade 1 routes and want to venture onto more challenging terrain, learning the ropework skills necessary for safe travel on grade 3 routes.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - some scrambling experience and a good level of hillwalking fitness 14-18 APR 2-6 JUN

30 JUN-4 JUL

18-22 AUG

15-19 SEP

20-24 OCT

£575

13

ROCKCLIMBING

Rock climbing’s special combination of mental and physical challenges make it a unique experience. Once you’ve tried it, you’re hooked. The intrinsic rewards that come from combining concentration, agility, balance, strength and judgement are unequalled in any other sport. Nothing heightens the senses more than the combination of delight and relief that comes from reaching the top of a demanding route. Whatever standard you climb at, from novice to expert, these feelings remain the same.

The key lies in seeking out new and exciting challenges. That’s where Plas y Brenin comes into its own. Based in Snowdonia we’re surrounded by some of the finest rock routes in Britain, from the towering sea cliffs of Gogarth and exposed mountain crags of the Llanberis Pass to the inviting slabs of Cwm Idwal and the sheltered walls of Tremadog. There’s even a choice of rock too with limestone, rhyolite, quarzite, dolerite and slate all within easy reach. This unique position not only allows us to conjure up great variety, it also means we can be flexible, adapting our course location and content to suit both the weather pattern and your ability. Which ultimately means you get the most from your time with us.

FIRST MOVES

2 DAYS

Become a rock climber! This introductory course gives you the best foundation in the skills you need to become a safe rock climber. During the weekend you’ll do lots of climbing outside, discover fundamental climbing techniques, take a close look at climbing equipment, and get to grips with ropework and safety skills.

This course gives you a taste of what rock climbing is all about. Using the excellent local cliffs our instructors will get you climbing, show you what gear you need and how to use it and put you on the right route to becoming a rock climber.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none required.

1-2 MAR 19-20 APR 31 MAY-1 JUN 22-23 MAR 17-18 MAY 14-15 JUN 5-6 APR 24-25 MAY 28-29 JUN

12-13 JUL 19-20 JUL 2-3 AUG

16-17 AUG 13-14 SEP 27-28 SEP

£185

5 DAYS

GET STARTED ROCK CLIMBING

Become a rock climber on this five-day version of ‘First Moves’. The same content with much more time to consolidate all the new skills and techniques.

This introductory course gives you the best foundation in the skills you need to become a safe rock climber. During the week you’ll visit a variety of single pitch crags, develop your climbing technique, learn what equipment is right for you and how you should use it. Giving you the perfect foundation to enjoy a lifetime of rock climbing.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none required.

24-28 FEB 24-28 MAR 31 MAR-4 APR

7-11 APR 21-25 APR 5-9 MAY

26-30 MAY 2-6 JUN 30 JUN-4 JUL

14-18 JUL 11-15 AUG 18-22 AUG

25-29 AUG 8-12 SEP 29 SEP-3 OCT

£580

2 DAYS

MOVING OUT!

If you’re experienced on the indoor wall but not too confident about the transition to outdoor climbing then this twoday course is a perfect start. By the end of the weekend you’ll have an in-depth understanding of anchor selection and belay techniques and knowledge of single and multi pitch climbing.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - some indoor climbing.

22-23 FEB 8-9 MAR 29-30 MAR 19-20 APR

14

10-11 MAY 24-25 MAY 7-8 JUN 14-15 JUN

28-29 JUN 12-13 JUL 26-27 JUL 2-3 AUG

9-10 AUG 23-24 AUG 30-31 AUG

20-21 SEP 11-12 OCT 18-19 OCT

£240

20% Member discount on our self catering bunkhouses or farmhouse for your group or club. The ideal base for a rock climbing holiday in North Wales (see p 66-67).

77

TOUCHING STONE

5 DAYS

This is the five day version of our ‘Moving Out’ course. Designed specifically for the growing number of people who climb regularly on an indoor wall and are not sure how to develop their skills to help them climb confidently outside at the crag. The course is structured to help you become self sufficient as quickly as possible, covering anchor selection and construction, rope handling, abseiling, self protection along with a host of other skills unique to outdoor climbing.

In the evenings you’ll pick up tips on equipment selection, training and mental preparation techniques.

This week of single and multi pitch climbing will leave you ready to take to the crag with confidence and enthusiasm.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - some indoor climbing.

3-7 MAR 12-16 MAY 7-11 JUL 11-15 AUG 22-26 SEP 17-21 MAR 26-30 MAY 14-18 JUL 18-22 AUG 6-10 OCT 7-11 APR 9-13 JUN 21-25 JUL 15-19 SEP 20-24 OCT £615 28 APR-2 MAY 30 JUN-4 JUL

ROCK IMPROVER

2 DAYS

If you climb with a mate and it feels like they do absolutely everything, this could be just what you need. If you are not interested in leading yet, this weekend could turn you into a reliable and able second out on the crags.

Over two days you’ll develop good climbing technique, discover how to belay and hold lead falls effectively, look closely at gear, develop your abseil technique and confidence, climb on various rock types, develop strategies for solving simple problems like stuck gear or falling off into overhanging ground.

This weekend of climbing will cover all the common situations you are likely to come across as a climber on single and multi-pitch crags in the UK, giving you the confidence to climb and make decisions as a dependable climbing partner.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - basic climbing skills.

5-6 APR 17-18 MAY

7-8 JUN

5-6 JUL

23-24 AUG

6-7 SEP

DISCOVER SPORT CLIMBING

£260

2 DAYS

Welcome to the world of sport climbing. A two-day taste of sport climbing, learning the essential skills you need to know to head out and do it yourself. If you want to try sport climbing, you climb in the wall and would like to climb outside or you’re off climbing in Spain and want to know what to do, this weekend is the right choice for you.

During two action packed days you’ll cover technical skills like clipping, belaying and lowering off to keep you safe.

You’ll receive coaching on your movement skills to improve your performance. You’ll take time to consider the psychological skills to keep your ‘mojo’ working. And you’ll gather the skills and knowledge to help you warm up, perform at your best, and avoid injury. All whilst doing loads and loads of great climbing!

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE – whether you climb indoors or out – bolted routes start in ‘the 5’s’ so pop down to your local wall and make sure you can climb at least French grade 5 on a rope.

29-30 MAR 31 MAY-1 JUN 16-17 AUG 30-31 AUG 11-12 OCT £240 26-27 APR

W W W. D M MWALE S .CO M

ALPHA AL PHA TRAD TRAD [AVAILABLE IN [AVAILABLE IN 12cm, 12cm, 18cm 18cm or or 25cm dyneema dyneema lengths] lengths] 25cm The Alpha Trad excels in Summer and Winter, from cragging to expeditions and everything in between. The beautifully hot forged ergonomic back combines with the clean nose wire gate to provide an easy clipping, fumble-free, anti-snag biner.

The ultimate wire gate biner

F FEATURES EATURES > Full size clean nose wire gate b > Strong and lightweight I-Bea construction > Safer, deeper rope basket > Generous 8.5mm rope radius > Easy to handle, grippy shape > Clean nose profile to reduce s

S STRENGTH TRENGTH > Major axis; 24 kN > Minor axis; 7 kN > Gate open; 9 kN

IN WALE S

COMPLETE SPORT CLIMBER

5 DAYS

Immerse yourself into the world of sport climbing on the wide range of well bolted crags that are in easy reach of Plas y Brenin. This five day version of our ‘Discover Sport Climbing’ course will cover the essential skills you need to climb sport routes, you will climb on different crags and rock types and explore things like working routes, red pointing and equipping and removing gear from routes. Plus all the other sneaky tricks that make your climbing more successful.

Over five days our coaches will take you from indoor climbing or traditional climbing and open up the doors to sport climbing. Sport climbing is often about pushing yourself physically. Over the five days we take you through all the basic skills of clipping, belaying and lowering off. We will coach your movement skills to improve your performance, we will introduce the concept of bolt to bolt, clip and drop and the psychological preparation required to make the all important redpoint.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE – whether you climb indoors or out – bolted routes start in ‘the 5’s’ so pop down to your local wall and make sure you can climb at least French grade 5 on a rope.

14-18 APR

12-16 MAY

30 JUN-4 JUL

1-5 SEP

29 SEP-3 OCT

£580

2 DAYS

DISCOVER LEADING

This course is for climbers who already have the basic climbing skills and competent seconds who want to start lead climbing.

You’ll cover guidebook interpretation, route selection and grades, protection, clipping and ropework, building belays, single and multi-pitch climbing, climbing technique, abseiling, simple problem solving; retreating off routes, escaping the system, prussiking. You will make the first steps into lead climbing whilst learning the nuts and bolts of climbing including simple ropework and decision making to be a safe lead climber.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - must be a proficient second.

12-13 APR 26-27 APR 3-4 MAY

17-18 MAY 7-8 JUN 14-15 JUN

5-6 JUL 12-13 JUL 26-27 JUL

16-17 AUG 20-21 SEP

27-28 SEP 4-5 OCT

INTRODUCTION TO LEADING

£325

5 DAYS

This is the five day version of our ‘discover leading’ course. If you’ve started climbing and want to start leading, this is the ideal way to get the experience.

Over five days you’ll have more time to build up your technique and improve your knowledge of rope work and protection.

By the end of the course you’ll be better prepared to lead confidently and safely. All the time our expert instructors will be coaching your practical skills as well as your mental approach.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - must be a proficient second.

3-7 MAR 17-21 MAR

21-25 APR 9-13 JUN

7-11 JUL 14-18 JUL

25-29 AUG

22-26 SEP

£650

2 DAYS

LEAD CLIMBING DEVELOPER

Two days on the sharp end, consolidating and expanding your leading skills. Under the watchful eye of our expert coaches you’ll pick up tips and techniques from their extensive experience.

Whether you want to lead harder routes, or explore more adventurous places, this intensive course could take you further than you dreamt possible.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - competent lead climber 15-16 MAR 14-15 JUN 19-20 JUL 9-10 AUG 6-7 SEP £335 5-6 APR 5-6 JUL

2 DAYS

PERFORMANCE CLIMBING WEEKEND

This course is for competent lead climbers who would like to improve their performance. If you would like to push your grade, improve your technique and climb more confidently then this is the course for you. This course embraces all aspects of rock climbing, from bouldering to sport to trad. It looks at training and provides top level coaching. It’s a tried and tested formula, just look at Britain’s top level climbers.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - leading at VS or above. £335 5-6 APR 10-11 MAY 17-18 MAY 14-15 JUN

5 DAYS

PERFORMANCE CLIMBING WEEK

A five day version of our Performance Climbing Weekend, this course allows much more time to practice the new skills and techniques. This week is ideal for competent lead climbers who would like to improve. If you would like to climb harder, improve your technique and boost your confidence, this is the course for you. This week embraces all aspects of rock climbing, from bouldering to sport to trad. It covers training and explores the benefits of top level coaching. This is a tried and tested formula, that really works.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - leading at VS or above.

28 APR-2 MAY 23-27 JUN 18-22 AUG 2-6 JUN

16

15-19 SEP

6-10 OCT

£680

20% Member discount on our self catering bunkhouses or farmhouse for your group or club. The ideal base for a climbing holiday in North Wales (see p 66-67).

THE LONGHOPE DIRECT, ST JOHNS HEAD, HOY: THE WORLDS HARDEST SEA CLIFF JAMES ‘CaFF’ McHAFFIE - CLIMBING COACH AND MOUNTAINEERING INSTRUCTOR Caff is one of our leading climbing coaches, someone who understands what it takes to push the boundaries of our sport.

He’s been a tremendous source of inspiration in the staff room this year, with ground-breaking ascents of some of the hardest climbs in the country. But of all the first ascents and tough grades, it is this rarely climbed route on the remote island of Orkney that captured Caff's imagination as his finest achievement of the year.

Repeating this climb was the highlight for me in 2013. I’d read about Drummond and Hills week long epic first ascent in the 70s and Arrans and Turnbulls free ascent over several days in the 90s. When Dave Macleod freed the Direct in a day in 2011 the pictures showing him on the crux top pitch were mind-boggling. The Longhope DVD showed a great history surrounding the climb with Drummond on the top in 2011 wiping the Mariners Lichen away from his and Hills’ initials inscribed on the summit cairn decades before, Arran and Turnbull offering a roundup of the challenges of climbing on the cliff and Macleod showing his never ending vision in pushing the limits.

After a brief foray in 2012 with some friends to assess if it was doable, I returned May 2013 with Ben Bransby in tow knowing he’d love the top pitch. With a near constant cold wind blowing on it St. John’s Head is a tricky place to be hanging off your fingertips for long and the top pitch is one of the hardest trad pitches in the UK. We were both pretty knackered at the base but the weather window was set. Beneath the top pitch our hands were cramping, reaching the jugs above the top roofs was luxurious and when we topped out we celebrated by downing some Orkney Whiskey with Adam Long and walked back down to the Rackwick Bay Bothy euphoric under clear evening skies. A great experience with good friends.

2 DAYS

TROUBLESHOOTING TECHNIQUES

Self Rescue skills for climbers - the course that every rock climber should have been on. This two-day course will teach you how to get out of those tricky situations that should never arise but all too often do. If you have any doubt how you would react in an emergency, this weekend covering self rescue techniques and how to cope if it all goes wrong, is an ideal way to put you and your climbing partner’s minds at rest.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - some rock climbing outside.

11-12 JAN 15-16 FEB

22-23 MAR 17-18 MAY

14-15 JUN 9-10 AUG

BIG WALL CLIMBING

13-14 SEP 4-5 OCT

1-2 NOV 15-16 NOV

£250

2 DAYS

If you’re planning a Big Walling trip for the first time, or wanting to fine tune what you’ve already learnt on your first epic, this weekend is worth its weight in gold. This weekend course is crammed full of practical instruction and advice on aid climbing, bivouacking, hanging stances and hauling. Exactly what you need to help you get the most from your trip.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - competent multi pitch climber with your sights set on a big wall adventure.

12-13 APR

3-4 MAY

GUIDED CLIMBING

16-17 AUG

£280

1 DAY

Be guided on North Wales’ greatest climbs. Let our climbing guides show you some of the wildest routes on offer and take you on an amazing adventure. Mountains, sea cliffs, climbing from dusk till dawn? We provide a personal guiding experience so that your climbing dreams can come true. Equipment needed will be provided.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - whatever level you climb at, we can arrange the perfect day out for you.

NON-RES YOU CHOOSE THE DATE

£250

20% Member discount on our self catering bunkhouses or farmhouse for your group or club. The ideal base for a climbing holiday in North Wales (see p 66-67).

17

73°NORTH DAVE RUDKIN - HEAD OF ROCK CLIMBING AT PLAS Y BRENIN No stranger to big challenges, our man Dave Rudkin set off to climb an innaccessible, towering rock face in Greenland. A route that had never been climbed before. Teaming up with Plas y Brenin staff veterans Ollie Sanders and Lee Roberts, the three set off for the unforgiving wilderness of Greenland. Here is the story of that epic climb as Dave tells it.

the route will go, the crux is climbed but still my heartbeat builds with pace and power. Now… the slow drip of adrenaline hits my chest and throat, like when a heavy bass beat is dropped at 4 in the morning. I hold it back. Not yet. I clench my teeth and push my forefingers into the coarse crystal crack above, lock my elbows down tight.

“Get to the belay”.

Hands torn I stand shaking, one footed. I can feel the granite crumble under my toe but know its solid underneath. Ignore it. Behind me, down to my left is the crux; a long reach right from a wet, loose flake, rocking over on a skrittly smear, one poor cam placed hurriedly in a pumped haze offered zero security. I put everything into that move. I don’t look back. I love this; being here, onsight new routing on the savage shores of Greenland. I didn’t realise that I did, not until this exact point. But right now, I know, this is what I love to do. The crack above shows itself for the first time, it’s perfect. I now know

200 metres higher, we sit huddled and exposed.

The wind rips across the ledge, drawing any warmth with it. With nothing to use as shelter I pull some fabric from my hood across my cheek and push my chin behind my knee. The incessant rain broke through my layers long ago, and I can now feel its flow. It’s one o’clock in the morning and still broad daylight. Nobody speaks. Nobody wants to because there is only one thing to say and none of us want that.

We’re drowning, drowning in a sea of light. We’re going down.

On the 9th August, three days later, after the storm had cleared, Olly Sanders, Lee Roberts and I returned to this immaculate unclimbed face and completed the first ascent of Drowning in a Sea of Light, 800m, E5 6b C1 in Greenland’s remote North West, 73° North.

18

mountain-equipment.co.uk

NEW GORE-TEX® PRO

LHOTSE JACKET FULL FUNCTION, 4-SEASON PROTECTION

Featuring a new Alpine fit, award-winning HC hood, YKK® Aquaguard® zips and the new generation GORE-TEX® Pro fabric.

Mountain Equipment Pro-Partner Nick Bullock puts the Lhotse through it’s paces on an alpine gear test.

Rive Gauche, Chamonix.

Lukasz Warzecha

“...it’s only when you wear the new 2013 Mountain Equipment Lhotse that you appreciate just how good the new Alpine Fit really is.”

Jon Doran, outdoorsmagic.com “…excellent arm-lift movement without coming untucked from your harness, and the hood works really well with or without a helmet.”

Tom Richardson, Climb, August 2013 “...GORE-TEX® Pro fabric and the Lhotse jacket have both received superb upgrades” Test Rating: 5/5 Graham Thompson, Trail, August 2013

19

WELSHWINTER Our Welsh Winter courses are based at home in Plas y Brenin, deep in the heart of Snowdonia’s National Park. The mountains are accessible with moderate walks into high North and East facing shady slopes and cwms. Whilst the winters are a little unpredictable, the last few years have delivered some excellent snow and ice conditions, ideal for learning essential winter skills. But whatever the weather, our flexible course programme means we can take full advantage of whatever Mother Nature serves up.

WELSH WINTER SKILLS

2 DAYS

Two days of intensive winter skills. Use and choice of ice axe and crampons, equipment selection, winter navigation and self arrest will all be covered.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - summer hillwalking.

11-12 JAN 1-2 FEB 22-23 FEB 22-23 NOV 6-7 DEC 18-19 JAN 8-9 FEB 1-2 MAR 29-30 NOV 13-14 DEC £230 25-26 JAN 15-16 FEB

WELSH WINTER HILLWALKING

5 DAYS

Designed for those with some hillwalking experience who want to travel the mountains confidently at a time of year when the length of day makes visibility less certain. The winter time offers great opportunities for developing navigation and safety skills in the mountains. The course also includes an introduction to ice axe and crampon technique.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - some summer hillwalking.

6-10 JAN 20-24 JAN 10-14 FEB 1-5 DEC 8-12 DEC £375 13-17 JAN 3-7 FEB 17-21 FEB

WINTER NAVIGATION

2 DAYS

Although the fundamental techniques involved in navigating are the same regardless of the seasons, winter brings with it unique challenges. This course will equip you with the skills and knowledge to help you deal with navigating in fading light or poor conditions, anticipating and dealing with increased risk from flooding or high winds and how to plan and follow your route in extreme weather.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - basic understanding of navigation. £225 11-12 JAN 18-19 JAN 15-16 FEB 22-23 NOV 13-14 DEC

WINTER FOURTEEN PEAKS CHALLENGE

5 DAYS

An opportunity to attempt to tick off all of Wales' 3000 foot peaks in one week. The unpredictable weather at this time of year adds an extra dimension to this unique challenge, that's why this five-day attempt will even allow time for summer hillwalkers who are new to the winter-experience to receive essential winter skills tuition along the way.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - a good level of summer hillwalking fitness.

13-17 JAN 27-31 JAN 10-14 FEB 24-28 FEB

WELSH WINTER MOUNTAINEERING

17-21 NOV

£505

5 DAYS

Making the most of the unpredictable weather experienced during the winter months in North Wales, this course is aimed at those summer hillwalkers who want to extend their skills to four seasons. Selection and use of ice axe and crampons, winter navigation, ropework for travel over rock, snow and ice as well as emergency bivouacking skills and selection of equipment are all covered during this five-day course.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - summer hillwalking.

6-10 JAN 20-24 JAN 3-7 FEB 24-28 MAR 24-28 NOV £465 13-17 JAN 27-31 JAN 3-7 MAR

WELSH WINTER RIDGES

2 DAYS

An exhilarating weekend of guided mountaineering on some of Snowdonia's classic ridges.

In winter, these narrow, rocky exposed ridges are even more demanding and exciting. In a group of two, you'll accompany our instructor as you make your way up and over some of the most spectacular ridges in the UK using a rope, ice axe and crampons wherever necessary to overcome the complex challenges that winter conditions add to the adventure.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - A good level of hillwalking fitness, a head for heights and a thirst for adventure.

11-12 JAN 1-2 FEB 15-16 FEB 1-2 NOV 6-7 DEC £350 18-19 JAN 8-9 FEB 1-2 MAR 29-30 NOV 13-14 DEC

20

SCOTTISH WINTER

The high mountains of Scotland offer a unique challenge to mountaineers. The unstable weather pattern, variable temperature and greater heights throw up unexpected challenges and unrivalled rewards. All of this has earned the Scottish mountains a world-wide reputation as the perfect training ground for mountaineering in the Alps or higher ranges.

For our Scottish winter courses we’re based in Glencoe, with much of the best climbing in Scotland right outside the front door. Whether you choose to learn to navigate confidently to the summit of your first Munro or pick your way carefully up a gleaming ice gully, one thing is for sure - our highly-qualified and enthusiastic instructors will help you develop the skill, technique and confidence you need to get more out of this rugged mountain environment. So come with us to the Scottish mountains and let us open your eyes to a winter experience you’ll never forget.

SCOTTISH WINTER HILLWALKING

5 DAYS

During the winter months, the Scottish Highlands are covered in snow and ice, and at their most impressive. This is a logical step up from our Welsh Winter Courses, and to feel confident above the snowline you need specific winter skills.

Over these five days you’ll discover how to use crampons and an ice axe; as well as learning about route planning and avalanche avoidance. As an introduction to Scottish conditions, all of these skills will be covered whilst gaining valuable mileage, experience and instruction on some of Scotland’s classic mountains.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - summer hillwalking. £660 9-13 FEB 16-20 FEB 2-6 MAR

SCOTTISH WINTER ESSENTIALS

3 DAYS

Three action packed days covering the fundamental skills and techniques you need to make the most of your time in Scottish mountains in Winter.

Whether you are an experienced climber or mountaineer coming to Scotland for the first time or a seasoned winter mountaineer looking to refresh your skills, you’ll get all the guidance and reassurance you need.

Over three days you’ll tackle the issues of moving over snow and ice and cover the essential skills that the harsh Scottish winter environment calls for.

Along the way you’ll have time to discuss your future plans with our coaches, using their advice to match your aspirations and ability to the perfect routes.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - mountaineers, and rock climbers alike, can transfer their skills to the winter crags with a good level of fitness.

1-3 MAR

8-10 MAR

£440

ALLTSHELLACH - OUR BASE IN SCOTLAND Plas y Brenin runs its Scottish winter courses in the highlands on the West Coast with easy access to the mountains of Glencoe, Ben Nevis, White Corries, Grey Corries and Aonach Mor areas. With such a wide range of options on our doorstep we are able to make the most of winter climbing and walking conditions, providing exciting and fulfilling experiences - every time.

Just twelve miles from the mainline railway terminal in Fort William or two hours drive from Glasgow, the area is very accessible with spectacular views of the coastine and the islands beyond adding another dimension to the mountains in winter.

Plas y Brenin has run its courses in Scotland from the HF Holidays house on the shores of Loch Leven near Glencoe since 1994. HF Holidays are great partners providing a comfortable friendly service in what was originally the country residence of the Bishop of Argyll. A large impressive dining room, excellent meals and friendly staff, make Alltshellach a great place to stay and run our courses. For relaxation there is a cosy bar, a spacious wi-fi lounge and free use of the new swimming pool and spa bar. There is also an efficient drying room for kit that needs drying out after a day on the hill.

The house offers very comfortable accommodation with a variety of shared bedrooms, mainly twins - all with ensuite facilities. This year it is possible for you to add an extra night onto your stay either before or after your course for only £40. You can do this when you book or when you are at Alltshellach.

21

A BIT OF SOLOING

TIM NEILL - PYB CLIMBING COACH AND BRITISH MOUNTAIN GUIDE Tim Neill is famous for his boundless enthusiasm and motivation for climbing. After some twenty five winters of putting in the effort whatever the conditions dished out, Tim had earned a bit of luck, and this was to be a vintage winter. Amongst a plethora of hard and classic ascents, there was one day which stood out from the rest. Here’s how Tim described his grand day out: “Monday was a day I’d waited a long time for: Perfect weather, perfect conditions, and no commitments. Climbing alone, I linked up a few famous classics on the Ben, profiting from the totally bomber conditions and lack of loose snow. Today was the day to try and move quickly around the mountain. Starting with Zero Gully, then Observatory Buttress I was soon on the quiet summit. Indicator Wall came next, followed by the Orion Face Direct and another hasty trip to the top. There was still time for Point 5 and I was all done by early afternoon….perfect. I’d wanted to do something like this since I first started winter climbing on the Ben, but had to wait for everything to come good at the same time. To finish with ‘The Point’ was ace….it was my first ever grade V about 20 yrs ago. It was unbelievably good ice and a total blast. This day might be hard to beat….ever!”

NOMIC Strikes the perfect balance of power and precision.

22

www.petzl.com/NOMIC

SCOTTISH WINTER MOUNTAINEERING

5 DAYS

To tackle the more challenging peaks of Glencoe and Lochaber in winter requires a full array of mountaineering skills.

This course aims to turn the dedicated hillwalker into a true ‘mountaineer’, combining practical instruction with ascents of many of the finest summits in the Western Highlands. Developing your winter skills on steeper snow and winter scrambling terrain, you will cover winter navigation, and avalanche evaluation alongside the emergency procedures of building a snow shelter and basic ropework for steep ground.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - summer hillwalking and a good level of fitness.

9-13 FEB

16-20 FEB

23-27 FEB

2-6 MAR

GODFREY JACKSON MEMORIAL AWARD

9-13 MAR

£710

5 DAYS

Scottish winter mountaineering for young people.

Eight places will be available to people aged 18 - 23.

(See p 64 for further details)

£220

9-13 FEB

SCOTTISH INTRODUCTION TO WINTER CLIMBING

5 DAYS

Climbing in Scotland offers rewards and challenges comparable with the best mountaineering anywhere in the world.

From a revision of the basic skills, to more advanced skills for steeper ground, you’ll make rapid progress over this five day course. You’ll discover all the ropework and climbing skills required to get your winter climbing started on a variety of Scotland’s finest routes.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - mountaineers, and rock climbers alike, can transfer their skills to the winter crags with a good level of fitness.

9-13 FEB

16-20 FEB

23-27 FEB

2-6 MAR

SCOTTISH PERFORMANCE WINTER CLIMBING

£885

5 DAYS

People who have been on our Winter Climbing courses often ask “what’s next?” Well here it is. More of the winning formula, with a 1:2 staff to student ratio right through the week. Develop your winter climbing experience on some of the longer or more challenging routes. Alternatively, take the opportunity to improve your technique still further, with our expert coaching. Our instructors will be sharing their experience and knowledge of climbing, route choice, snow evaluation and conditions to ensure you make the most of what Scotland can offer.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE: winter snow and ice climbing. £900 2-6 MAR

SCOTTISH GUIDED WINTER CLASSICS

5 DAYS

Climb with the most experienced Guides and Instructors in Scotland. This superlative Winter Climbing experience aims to help you get the best from five days in Scotland. Our high staff to student ratio gives you a tailormade week of action to help you fulfil your winter climbing potential.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - fit and keen for lots more winter climbing. £900 16-20 FEB 23-27 FEB

WHAT DO OUR SCOTTISH COURSES INCLUDE? All our Scottish winter prices include instruction, accommodation, meals, technical equipment hire and transport during the course.

The dates listed in the brochure are for the actual days of the courses but participants arrive the evening before a course starts with a full meal. HF Holidays also offer our guests the option to up grade to single occupancy bedrooms and are happy to extend your stay a further day beyond the end of the course if you wish.

Departure at the end of your course is at 5pm after tea and cakes, you are welcome to book an evening meal, bed and breakfast and depart the following morning for an additional fee.

On your evening of arrival there will be a member of the Plas y Brenin staff available to organise the kit requested and give advice on equipment - all included in the course fee. This helps to get everyone out on the hill promptly at the start of the course the following day.

You can be sure you will be out on the hill with the most enthusiastic, experienced and qualified staff to get the most out of your visit to the Highlands.

Plas y Brenin and HF Holidays have been working together in Glen Coe for many years. If you’d like an outdoor enthusiasts’ holiday with friends, family or just on your own at Glen Coe or any of HF Holidays’ locations, please visit www.hfholidays.co.uk or phone 0845 470 8559 for a brochure.

23

OFF PISTE SKIING SKIING BACK COUNTRY SKIING AND SKI TOURING IN AN UNSPOILED ALPINE WILDERNESS We love to ski, but there is so much more than crowded lifts and busy resorts. This is skiing for people who want to enjoy the wild open spaces of the back-country, and want to be higher in the mountains. Most skiers have the skills to get further away from the crowds than they imagine and with some expert coaching and careful guidance to take you to the best venues we can build your skills and boost your confidence. With the right equipment and essential instruction, we offer so much more than simply a guided experience. We’re committed to setting you free with the skills you need to carve fresh tracks in the mountains. Each course is run by IFMGA British Mountain Guides or aspirants, but more than that, they are all experienced ski coaches too.

OFF PISTE SKI SAFARI

6 DAYS

This is your chance to get away from the crowds, carve fresh tracks and gain a first taste of ski touring without heading off into the wilderness right away. Instead we take it a day at a time, gaining maximum skiing for minimum effort using the excellent variety of local lift systems. Under the watchful eye of our Guides you can enjoy the shady delights of Galtur; the sun kissed spring snow of Kappl or the world class resort of Ischgl – as well as all the great terrain beyond the lifts. Over six days, as your off piste skiing improves, you will learn about the skills, equipment and techniques for safe and enjoyable travel in this challenging environment. All you need to do is arrange your travel to Galtür and we’ll look after everything else. The course is based from our luxury hotel in Galtur (in the Silvretta region of Austria) with one night in a mountain hostel.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - have skied enough to know that you want to get off piste. The ability to pick yourself up and dust yourself down with a smile on your face.

COURSE PRICE INCLUDES SKI PASS, SKI HIRE CAN BE ARRANGED FOR APPROX. €190

9-14 MAR

SKI TOUR SILVRETTA

£1250

6 DAYS

This six-day adventure is the perefect first multi-day tour. With our expert guidance and local knowledge you’ll enjoy a classic journey as you pick your way from one mountain hut to another, taking in high mountain passes, deep powder descents and acres of pristine snow slopes.

What’s more, along the way our guides will teach you how to make your own decisions in the mountains and help you to develop the skills that make ski touring so rewarding. By the end of the week, you’ll have completed one of the finest skitours in the Alps and have a tale to tell that will be the envy of all of your friends. All you need to do is to get yourself to our hotel in Galtür where you’ll spend two comfortable nights before heading off into the mountains.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - have skied off piste before and would like to spend a whole week ski-touring COURSE PRICE INCLUDES SKI PASS, SKI HIRE CAN BE ARRANGED FOR APPROX. €190

16-21 MAR

BIG ZINAL DESCENTS

£1250

6 DAYS

The Val D’Anniviers in the heart of the Swiss Valais is only 2 hours from Geneva and yet remains one of Switzerland's best kept secrets. We’ll be teaming up with Fall-line and staying at the Scott Sport test centre in Zinal, which offers reliable snow (being based at nearly 1700m) and a lift pass which gives access to five different resorts: all home to some fantastic descents. Using lifts, and a relatively short time on skins, we can access couloirs, bowls, gullies, trees – there really is a bit of everything. What’s more, it is all set against an immaculate backdrop of stunning glacial scenery and you end up in our comfortable lodgings at the chalet Edelweiss at the end of each day. This course is for those who want to ski some great terrain, on some great skis, and aren’t afraid to put in a bit of effort to get there.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - you’ve been off-piste skiing before but this time you want the longest runs in the best possible powder.

COURSE PRICE INCLUDES SKI PASS PLUS FREE SKI HIRE

5-10 JAN

SKI TOURING IN TROMS

£1495

6 DAYS

Many of our ski clients come back time and again, and will be used to seeing the ‘adventure of the year’ appear in these pages. Well this year we will be heading to Arctic Norway to savour the delights of the remote island of Senja, the summit to sea experience of the Lyngen Alps, and to explore the very best of ski touring in Troms. With no lifts, and no crowds, this is for committed and experienced ski-tourers who want to earn their turns on a trip of a lifetime.

FOR FULL DETAILS, VISIT THE SKI PAGES ON OUR WEBSITE.

24

SKIING THE WILDERNESS OF BRITISH COLUMBIA

MARTIN CHESTER - DIRECTOR OF TRAINING AND BRITISH MOUNTAIN GUIDE Ski guide Martin Chester and three friends spent three weeks exploring the uncharted wilderness of the Homathko Ice-field on skis, venturing where no other skier had ever carved a track. Being out of sight and out of touch for two weeks would drive most people out of their minds but Martin and his chums felt otherwise. In his own words, here’s what Martin thought about it.

“Just 48 hours out of Manchester and the helicopter pulled away, taking the cares of the world with it, leaving just the four of us and nothing but unspoiled snowy wilderness for as far as the eye could see. Carving out our snow-hole which would be home for the next couple of weeks, we settled in to a routine of excited exploration. We were like kids in a sweet shop, as one pristine peak after another was adorned with our fresh ski tracks. I have always delighted in the rich complexity of soulful adventure sports: and Ski Touring has always been the perfect vehicle to escape the crowds. This was some escape! Combining everything we had learned about expedition mountaineering, snow and avalanche, and exploratory route finding it meant that carving those fresh tracks felt all the sweeter.

All too soon it was time to start the journey back to the vibrant colours and pungent sensations of the forest as we made our way to the coast. Over the next few days we would be tested by everything that Mother Nature could throw at us: from blizzard to avalanche; crevasses to bears; before we were finally sailing home down the Bute Inlet. More than just a bus-man’s holiday, this had been a great adventure shared with great friends.”

25

ALPINE ALPINE MOUNTAINEERING MOUNTAINEERING

Once again this year we’re taking our Alpine courses back to the spiritual home of British Alpinism - The Chamonix valley. From beautiful hut walks to lofty ridges, there is plenty for walkers or mountaineers alike. Whether you want a “taste of the Alps” or strive for self sufficiency. Whether you are a walker, or a committed climber. Whether you want five days of skills, a good apprenticeship, or two full weeks of adventure – there really is something for everyone here.

All our staff are IFMGA guides (or aspirants) as well as Mountaineering Instructors. This means that, in addition to the top international qualification, they have a wealth of Alpine experience to share.

Easy Access from Geneva airport is a huge plus point for Argentiere, just up the valley from Chamonix. Join us in Chamonix this summer for some great climbing and mountaineering adventures and you’ll find our Guides have all the knowledge you need to find the perfect venues to help you fine tune your skills.

ALPINE PREPARATION

2 DAYS

If you’re going to the Alps this year make this weekend in North Wales a part of your preparation. We’ve designed a two-day programme to fine tune the skills you need out there, from glacier travel, crevasse rescue, navigation and route planning to using huts, bivouac skills and access issues. You’ll also cover essential alpine ropework, learn how to interpret Alpine weather and recognise hazards before they become a problem.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - some experience of climbing ropework. £235 15-16 MAR 5-6 APR 10-11 MAY 14-15 JUN

ALPINE ESSENTIALS

3 DAYS

Three action packed days covering the fundamental skills and techniques you need to make the most of your time in the Alps. Whether you are an experienced climber or mountaineer coming to the Alps for the first time or a budding Alpinist looking to refresh your skills, you’ll get all the guidance and reassurance you need.

Over three days you’ll tackle the Alpine issues of moving over rock, ice and glaciers covering the essential skills that the unique Alpine environment calls for. Along the way you’ll have time to discuss your future plans with our Guides using their advice to match your aspirations and ability to the perfect routes.

RATIO: Normally 1 instructor : 3 participants WHAT’S INCLUDED? This course is designed for those who are already out in Chamonix so no acccomodation is included. This allows you to get the input and experience you need at a price you can afford. The cost of all uplift is included.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - enough climbing and mountaineering to know Alpinism is the next step.

6-8 JUL

9-11 JUL

13-15 JUL

DISCOVER ALPINISM

16-18 JUL

£405

5 DAYS

A perfect introduction to Alpine mountaineering.

This five- day course is for those who wish to transfer their love of the mountains to an Alpine environment. Learn the techniques, get a taste of the sights and scale of the Alps, and reap the rewards.

Through the five days we will introduce you to the special aspects of Alpine mountaineering. Moving on snow and ice, travelling on glaciers and ridges, Alpine rope work, and crevasse rescue. We will then make full use of your new found Alpine skills on the majestic peaks of the area.

This course is for you if you want an all round Alpine apprenticeship where you’d really like to go off and do it yourself, but would like to learn the basic skills (and all those top-tips) first. This course will pack years of experience into just five days, to help launch your own future of safe and enjoyable Alpinism.

RATIO: Normally 1 instructor : 3 participants WHAT’S INCLUDED? This course is based in self catering accommodation in Argentiere, and mountain huts along the way. The cost of all uplift is included. All you have to pay for are meals in the valley and all your lunches and drinks.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - some winter hillwalking 7-11 JUL

26

21-25 JUL

£1185

ALPINE GIANTS

5 DAYS

There is so much more to the Mont Blanc massif than Mont Blanc itself. Soaring snow arêtes and lofty rocky ridges – this is five days of Alpine adventure. Throughout this week we will take your skills further, climbing some classic alpine summits. With so many impressive peaks in the area we have so much to choose from. Of course, they don’t have to be technical, and we don’t have to limit ourselves to the biggest – there is something for everyone.

Even though this is a classic guided adventure, you will spend 5 days working very closely with a fully qualified IFMGA guide who will develop your mountaineering skills and your mountain sense to a new level.

RATIO: Normally 1 instructor : 2 participants WHAT’S INCLUDED? For this course, when we’re in the valley, we stay in half board hotel accommodation. In the mountains, we stay in mountain refuges and the cost of all uplift is included, so all you have to pay for are your lunches and drinks. Get yourself to Argentiere and let us take care of the rest.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - some alpine mountaineering experience, or a previous course.

£1425

28 JUL-1 AUG

COMPLETE ALPINE CLIMBER

12 DAYS

Our best course just got better! This year this amazing Alpine learning experience includes two days welcome rest in the middle of two five day blocks. One week may give you the skills, but ten days will allow you to put it in to practice and reap the rewards.

You’ll spend the first five days at a 1:4 guide to client ratio, giving you the skills you need to travel on Alpine terrain, whilst taking in some great summits.

After two days welcome rest in the valley, you’ll have the chance to consolidate your new skills in a way that’s just not possible for most week long introductions as we drop down to a flexible 1:2 ratio, focusing directly on your individual aspirations. Five days of tailormade development – awesome summits via the perfect routes for you.

RATIO: Normally 1 instructor : 4 participants initially then 1 instructor : 2 participants WHAT’S INCLUDED? This course is based in self catering accommodation in Argentiere, and mountain huts along the way. The cost of all uplift is included. All you have to pay for are meals in the valley, and all your lunches and drinks.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - the more you already know about winter mountaineering, and multi pitch climbing, the more you will gain from the course. Fitness and enthusiasm to learn are most important.

14-25 JUL

£2185

SIROCCO At 165 grams, a featherweight that can take the hits. www.petzl.com/SIROCCO

27

SCARPA.CO.UK Handmade in Italy. Established in 1938

16

MOUNTAIN QUALIFICATIONS QUALIFICATIONS MOUNTAIN

The Mountain Training Boards are concluding a review of their highly respected walking awards; with agreed changes to be rolled out nationally in 2014. The revised set of walking qualifications will include ‘Lowland Leader’, the likely re-naming of the Walking Group Leader and ‘Mountain Leader’ awards.

These developments include the launch of a new Mountain Training award for those working with walking groups on paths in rural countryside and forest – the Lowland Leader Award.

This award provides a convenient entry point to the Mountain Training schemes and is designed to cover basic outdoor leadership skills as a first rung on the awards ladder. The Lowland Leader Award includes an optional expedition skills module for those working with groups using campsites or undertaking backpacking trips, making a flexible award which meets the needs of many user groups. The expedition skills module is also available to those who have completed the Walking Group Leader Award.

There will also be some changes incorporated into the syllabus and guidance as the Walking Group Leader Award changes. To stay up to date with developments visit www.pyb.co.uk

2 DAYS

HILL SKILLS

The Hill Skills course is aimed at the novice hill walker and ideal for those interested in developing a practical understanding of how to plan walks, become familiar with the use of map and compass, learn about the equipment required and also gain an understanding of the effects of weather. All this, plus emergency procedures and the upland environment form the syllabus of this course. The course utilises countryside and moorland areas where the skills will be transferable to many popular walking areas of the UK. PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE- An interest in hillwalking.

12-13 APR 7-8 JUN 9-10 AUG 13-14 SEP 11-12 OCT £195 10-11 MAY 12-13 JUL

THE WALKING GROUP LEADER AWARD (WGL) The Walking Group Leader Award is the national award for leaders and teachers involved in taking young people into the countryside. This award covers the skills, leadership and group management issues needed to lead parties of novices on open countryside, easy hills and moors , for example, the walled and fenced countryside of the North Yorkshire Dales, or open moorland areas such as Dartmoor or the Dark Peak of Derbyshire. To find out more visit www.mountain-training.org

3 DAYS

WGL AWARD TRAINING

This training course is based on the WGL syllabus. There are theory sessions on weather, group leader responsibilities, risk assessment and dealing with emergencies as well as practical skills. The practical sessions will cover walking, route finding in the hills, navigation, leadership and the supervision of camping and overnight stays. Much of the course is practical and you should be prepared for adverse weather.

You must be registered on the Walking Group Leader scheme with Mountain Training and have the required experience.

27-29 JAN 24-26 MAR 26-28 MAY 22-24 SEP 17-19 NOV 10-12 FEB 7-9 APR 16-18 JUL 20-22 OCT 28-30 NOV £280 3-5 MAR 14-16 APR 25-27 AUG 27-29 OCT

5 DAYS

WGL TO ML CONVERSION

If you hold a Walking Group Leader Award this nifty conversion course is an ML Training course that focuses on the skills you need to know without wasting too much time on areas that you have already covered in your previous training and assessment. Alongside like minded leaders, you will spend more time on the specific aspects of the syllabus that are relevant to your needs. Leaving with a clear personalised action plan, you’ll have an even better idea of how to get the most out of your Mountain Leader Assessment.

The course has a practical approach (supported by theory sessions) to develop your personal skills and leadership in the mountains and includes a ‘wild camping’ expedition with night navigation training. You must hold the Walking Group Leader award and be registered for the Mountain Leader scheme before you can take advantage of this course.

10-14 FEB

24-28 MAR

7-11 APR

WGL AWARD ASSESSMENT

25-29 AUG

29 SEP-3 OCT

£460

3 DAYS

You must have completed a Walking Group Leader training course prior to this assessment.

The course covers the syllabus of the award meeting the standards set by Mountain Training. Three mainly practical days are spent on the local moors. Overnight responsibilities and camping skills are covered in 2 DAYS theory sessions.

21-23 FEB 9-11 APR 29 SEP-1 OCT 10-12 NOV 24-26 NOV £320 10-12 MAR 8-10 SEP 15-17 OCT

29

THE MOUNTAIN LEADER AWARD SUMMER (ML SUMMER) The Mountain Leader Award qualifies the candidate to lead a group of hill walkers anywhere in the UK under summer conditions. It covers such skills as group management, navigation, security on steep ground, campcraft, access and conservation, weather forecasting, emergency procedures and personal equipment.

To find out more visit www.mountain-training.org

6 DAYS

ML SUMMER TRAINING

The training course is based around the Mountain Leader syllabus and the particular needs of candidates. In particular we will look at the practical skills and techniques required when leading groups hill walking and camping in the mountains of the UK and Ireland including aspects of navigation, group management, supervision on steep ground, risk assessment and emergency use of the rope. Consideration of the weather, mountain rescue, the environment and other related topics will also be covered.

The majority of the course is practically based, however, some is of a theoretical nature. At times you may find yourself outdoors in adverse weather and you should be prepared for this. There will be an overnight camp and night navigation exercise. You must be registered on the Mountain Leader scheme with Mountain Training prior to attending this course and have the required experience.

11-16 JAN 25-30 JAN 8-13 FEB 22-27 FEB 8-13 MAR 22-27 MAR

5-10 APR 12-17 APR 19-24 APR 26 APR-1 MAY 3-8 MAY 24-29 MAY

31 MAY-5 JUN 7-12 JUN 28 JUN-3 JUL 5-10 JUL 19-24 JUL 9-14 AUG

16-21 AUG 23-28 AUG 6-11 SEP 20-25 SEP 4-9 OCT 18-23 OCT

25-30 OCT 1-6 NOV 15-20 NOV 22-27 NOV 29 NOV-4 DEC 6-11 DEC

£550

5 DAYS

ML SUMMER ASSESSMENT

You must have completed a Mountain Leader training course prior this assessment. The course covers the syllabus of the award, meeting the standards set by Mountain Training. This five day intensive assessment course looks at all aspects of leading groups in the hills and includes a three day expedition.

17-21 FEB 3-7 MAR 17-21 MAR 31 MAR-4 APR 14-18 APR

28 APR-2 MAY 12-16 MAY 2-6 JUN 9-13 JUN 23-27 JUN

30 JUN-4 JUL 14-18 JUL 21-25 JUL 11-15 AUG

18-22 AUG 1-5 SEP 15-19 SEP 29 SEP-3 OCT

13-17 OCT 27-31 OCT 10-14 NOV 24-28 NOV

£580

2 DAYS

ML SUMMER REFRESHER

Open to Registrants, Trainees and Holders of the Mountain Leader Award, this intensive weekend course serves both as an update for anyone whose training or assessment course was completed some time ago, and as an opportunity for constructive criticism on areas of personal performance for those considering assessment. It is intended as a forum to look at current ideas, techniques and practices. It also provides an opportunity to raise questions and hopefully dismiss fears concerning assessment. Topics covered include micro-navigation, weather, emergency use of the rope and leadership. However the precise structure remains flexible to best suit the needs of the course members.

16-17 JAN 19-20 APR 19-20 JUL 4-5 OCT 8-9 NOV 15-16 FEB 24-25 MAY 9-10 AUG 18-19 OCT 6-7 DEC £200 22-23 MAR 5-6 JUL

THE MOUNTAIN LEADER AWARD WINTER (ML WINTER) The Winter Mountain Leader Award qualifies the candidate to lead a group of hillwalkers anywhere in the UK and Ireland under winter conditions. The course covers such skills as use of ice axe and crampons, snow pack evaluation, group management, weather forecasting, emergency techniques, belay construction and the use of the rope to provide security for individuals, navigation and emergency bivouac, all in the winter environment. To find out more visit www.mountain-training.org

6 DAYS

ML WINTER TRAINING

This 6 day course, which is based on the MTS Winter Mountain Leader syllabus, covers all essential practical skills necessary for leading parties in the British hills in winter conditions. Applicants must be prepared to operate in real mountain terrain in the most severe conditions. The majority of the course is practically based, however some is of a theoretical nature. At times you may find yourself outdoors in adverse weather and you should be prepared for this. There is an overnight expedition and night navigation exercise. You must be registered on the Winter Mountain Leader scheme with Mountain Training Scotland prior to attending this course and have the required experience.

This course is based at HF Holidays Country House Alltshellach near Glen Coe (see page 21 & 23).

9-14 FEB

16-21 FEB

23-28 FEB

ML WINTER ASSESSMENT

£580

8-13 MAR

5 DAYS

Candidates for Winter ML Assessment must hold the Summer ML and have attended a Winter ML training course. Candidates should be aware of the arduous and demanding nature of this 5 day assessment and prepare accordingly.

This course is based at HF Holidays Country House Alltshellach near Glen Coe (see page 21 & 23).

9-13 FEB

30

2-6 MAR

9-13 MAR

£590

THE FUTURE FUTURE LEADERS LEADERS FUND FUND THE

APPLY FOR UP TO 75% FUNDING AT WWW.PYB.CO.UK/FUTURELEADERS

Here at Plas y Brenin National Mountain Centre, we believe in a healthy sense of adventure and encourage participation in a Sporting Habit for Life. The most effective way to make sure as many young people as possible across the country are getting out, getting fit and getting happy is to train the trainers. We believe in the vital role that volunteer leaders play in their local communities, and we understand that the barriers to access that all-important training are more challenging than ever.

The National Mountain Centre trains people on the basis of talent, enthusiasm and commitment. We believe it should never be on the basis of your ability to pay. That’s why we have created this fund to help support the volunteer leaders of the future – The Future Leaders Fund – to make sure that the next generation has the opportunity to enjoy a healthy and happy sporting habit for life.

WHAT IS THE FUND FOR? We have a pot of money available to help volunteer leaders in the outdoors access the training they need and deserve in order for them to perform better as a leader or coach in mountain sports.

Currently aimed at furthering hillwalking, mountaineering and climbing in England, the funding available comes in the form of a direct subsidy on training or assessment courses at Plas y Brenin, The National Mountain Sports Centre.

The amount of subsidy is linked to an index of areas where those interested in becoming outdoor leaders may be lacking in opportunity or advantage.

In short, The Future Leaders Fund makes the training you need as a volunteer leader more affordable.

WHO CAN APPLY? Any volunteer leader in England with a genuine commitment to encouraging and developing others in the outdoors.

Currently the fund is available to support leaders in hillwalking, mountaineering and climbing in areas of England where leaders and young people may be lacking in opportunity or advantage.

Three are no age restrictions although you must be old enough to be eligible to undertake the training or assessment course you are applying for according to the conditions of the relevant National Governing Body.

HOW MUCH CAN I SAVE? The amount of subsidy is linked to an index of areas where those interested in becoming outdoor leaders may be lacking in opportunity or advantage.

There are three zones within the Future Leaders Fund area index. Volunteer leaders or coaches operating within each zone are eligible for a specific level of subsidy. Full details of the Future Leaders Fund area index can be found on our website at www.pyb.co.uk/futureleaders.

31

THE INTERNATIONAL MOUNTAIN LEADER AWARD (IML) If you would like to lead others internationally and have a ML award, experience of walking outside the UK and some winter experience, this is the award for you. This award is now a requirement to lead paying clients in some European countries. The IML award is an appropriate award for leading groups in all mountain areas except those which require the technical equipment of climbing and alpinism. To find out more visit www.mountain-training.org

5 DAYS

IML SUMMER TRAINING

Based at Plas y Brenin this 5 day Summer course is a mix of theory and practical sessions and looks at a wide range of topics, including anatomy and physiology, legal liability, altitude, marketing, leadership, navigation, altimeters, and environmental considerations, as well as covering many other aspects of working with trekking groups in the mountains of the world.

A key part of this course will be to develop individual action plans in order to help each individual progress through the next three stages of the award. * Please note the training course contains an assessed, timed navigation test. On completion of the summer IML training course candidates can then progress to either the Summer assessment or the Winter training course both of which are based in the European Alps. This allows individuals some flexibility to complete courses most appropriate to them. All candidates must successfully complete the summer assessment before completing the winter assessment .

You must be registered on the International Mountain Leader scheme with Mountain Training prior to attending this course and have the required experience.

23-27 APR

2-6 JUN

£560

27-31 OCT

4 DAYS

IML SUMMER ASSESSMENT

You must have completed an IML Summer training course prior this assessment. This assessment takes place over 4 days with three nights in huts and is based in an Alpine region. This is a practical course which allows fitness, leadership, environmental knowledge, route choice, group care, navigation and many other skills to be assessed. Candidates will complete a home paper and present their fact file as part of the assessment. Candidates should arrive for this expedition-based assessment, fit, acclimatised and familiar with all aspects of the syllabus.

The course cost does not include accommodation, meals, hut fees or travel.

NON-RES 20-23 AUG

26-29 AUG

1-4 SEP

£665

5 DAYS

IML WINTER TRAINING

This course is based in an Alpine region and covers the personal skills required by IML leaders as well as leadership and group care considerations. The course is predominantly practical in nature, supported by some indoor lectures. During the week the aim is to develop the candidate’s skills, judgements and knowledge as well as a full understanding of the terrain where an IML may operate. The technical skills covered during this week includes avalanche awareness and snow pack evaluation, transceiver use and search techniques, personal movement skills, use of ice axe, emergency use of rope, winter belays and use of maps and guides for planning appropriate routes.

13-17 JAN

20-24 JAN

£975

27-31 JAN

5 DAYS

IML WINTER ASSESSMENT

The IML Winter Assessment is a Gite based course held in the Pyrenees region. This course assesses the skills and techniques required for an IML to safely lead groups in appropriate terrain in winter conditions.

This assessment is the final stage candidates are required to complete before qualifying as International Mountain Leaders. Technical areas assessed include personal movement skills with and without snowshoes, use of ice axe and ropes as emergency tools, transceiver use and search skills, snow pack evaluation, avalanche awareness and use of maps and guides for planning appropriate winter journeys.

17-21 FEB

£850

24–28 FEB

THE CLIMBING WALL AWARD (CWA) This award covers the skills and leadership qualities needed to introduce and supervise novice climbers on typical top roping and bouldering climbing walls. There is an additional module in supervising abseiling from artificial structures (included as part of our CWA training course). To find out more visit www.mountain-training.org

2 DAYS

CWA TRAINING

This two day training course focuses on party supervision, safety and coaching movement skills. The module on group abseils will also be covered. You must be registered on the Climbing Wall Award scheme Mountain Training prior to attending this course and have the required experience. .11-12 JAN 5-6 APR 14-15 JUN 6-7 SEP 29-30 NOV 18-19 JAN 8-9 MAR

12-13 APR 3-4 MAY

5-6 JUL 16-17 AUG

11-12 OCT 8-9 NOV

13-14 DEC

£185

1 DAY

CWA ASSESSMENT

This one day assessment covers the main award and the abseil module. You must have completed the CWA training course and CWA abseil module training (included in our CWA training course) prior to assessment.

8 JAN 15 JAN 22 JAN

32

7 FEB 7 MAR 25 APR

23 MAY 7 JUN 22 AUG

12 SEP 14 NOV

RESISDENTIAL NON-RES

£105

£75

THE CLIMBING WALL LEADING AWARD (CWLA) This award covers the skills needed to teach lead climbing on indoor and outdoor artificial walls for holders of the CWA and SPA Awards. To find out more visit www.mountain-training.org

1 DAY

CWLA TRAINING

This one day course focuses on the safety and coaching elements of teaching leading and uses our two dedicated climbing walls. You must be registered on the Climbing Wall Leading Award scheme with Mountain Training prior to attending this course and have the required experience.

RESISDENTIAL NON-RES 12 JAN 9 FEB 20 APR 23 NOV £75 £105 2 FEB

1 DAY

CWLA ASSESSMENT

This one day assessment is for candidates who have registered and been trained for CWLA and have 100 lead climbs, at least half of which must be at French 6a or above.

RESISDENTIAL NON-RES 22 NOV 19 APR 8 FEB 11 JAN £75 £105 1 FEB

THE SINGLE PITCH AWARD (SPA) The skills needed to supervise groups of novice climbers in potentially hazardous environments are different to those required to climb safely with friends. The SPA provides training and assessment on how to organise and supervise safe, effective and enjoyable sessions for relative novices on single pitch crags both in and outdoors.

To find out more visit www.mountain-training.org

2 DAYS

SPA TRAINING A two day training course based on the SPA syllabus. You must be registered on the Single Pitch Award scheme with Mountain Training prior to attending this course and have the required experience.

13-14 JAN 10-11 FEB 15-16 FEB 1-2 MAR

29-30 MAR 12-13 APR 21-22 APR 10-11 MAY

24-25 MAY 14-15 JUN 19-20 JUL 2-3 AUG

23-24 AUG 30-31 AUG 13-14 SEP

11-12 OCT 25-26 OCT 22-23 NOV

£215

2 DAYS

SPA ASSESSMENT

Before attending the 2 day assessment course, candidates must have attended a Training course, be able to lead Severe grade climbs and hold a valid first aid certificate.

6-7 SEP 26-27 JUL 31 MAY-1 JUN 5-6 APR 23-24 JAN 18-19 OCT 23-24 AUG 28-29 JUN 22-23 APR 8-9 FEB £215 17-18 MAY 22-23 MAR

THE MOUNTAIN TRAINING COACHING AWARD SCHEME This new award scheme, launched in October 2013 adds a new level of coaching know-how to your existing qualifications. Aimed at coaches working in climbing walls these courses are equally appealing to mountaineering and climbing instructors who would like to apply their coaching skills in all aspects of their work. To register for the scheme and to find out more visit www.mountain-training.org

1 DAY

FOUNDATION COACH TRAINING

This one day training course is packed with practical coaching tips to help you deliver the fundamentals of climbing in a more inspirational and effective way. You must be registered on the Coaching Scheme with Mountain Training prior to attending this course and have the required experience.

RESISDENTIAL NON-RES 25 JAN 15 FEB 14 JUN 8 NOV £75 £105 1 FEB 26 APR 6- SEP

THE COMPLETE CLIMBING COACH

5 DAYS

This five day course covers everything you need to get started on the coaching award scheme. The course includes CWA training, BMC Fundamentals of Climbing 1 and 2 and Foundation Coach Training. You must be registered with Mountain Training for the awards and have the required experience. £490 24-28 MAR 18-22 AUG 6-10 OCT

2 DAYS

DEVELOPMENT COACH TRAINING

This intensive two day training course will take your coaching skills to the next level. If you coach climbers beyond their first session this course will help you to structure their development. Going beyond technical delivery, this course will develop your skills to deliver tactical and physical improvements in your climbers over a series of sessions. You must be registered with Mountain Training and have the required experience.

22-23 MAR 10-11 MAY

28-29 JUN 16-17 AUG

20-21 SEP

6-7 DEC

£185

33

THE MOUNTAINEERING INSTRUCTOR AWARD (MIA) The Mountaineering Instructor Award is for instructors working in summer conditions in the UK and covers multi-pitch rock climbing, scrambling and other mountaineering skills. It integrates experience and assessment in a variety of testing conditions in mountainous country. To find out more visit www.mountain-training.org

9 DAYS

MIA TRAINING

The 9 day course covers the technical aspects of rock climbing and mountaineering for the mountaineering instructor together with essential training in cliff rescue, as well as sessions on skill acquisition, the mountain environment, strategies for teaching navigation and the role of the MIA holder in the ML scheme.

You must be registered on the Mountaineering Instructor Award scheme with Mountain Training prior to attending this course and have the required experience.

15-23 MAR 5-13 APR

3-11 MAY 7-15 JUN

19-27 JUL 16-24 AUG

6-14 SEP 27 SEP-5 OCT

1-9 NOV

£970

5 DAYS

MIA ASSESSMENT

Candidates will be assessed over 5 days on personal climbing, teaching climbing, leading in the mountains, emergency improvisation on the crag and the teaching/coaching of navigation. Part of the fifth day will be devoted to a full debrief and discussion.

28 APR-2 MAY 26-30 MAY 23-27 JUN

14-18 JUL 25-29 AUG 1-5 SEP

15-19 SEP 6-10 OCT 13-17 OCT

20-24 OCT 27-31 OCT

3-7 NOV 10-14 NOV

£690

2 DAYS

MIA REFRESHER

This course is designed to help mountaineering instructor trainees during preparation for assessment or MIA holders who’d like to bring themselves up to date with current practice. It gives trainees a chance to ask any questions about the assessment and brush up on any weak areas whilst also helping current MIA Award holders to gather some valuable CPD experience. Practical work includes teaching climbing on multipitch routes and managing clients on steep ground.

26-27 APR

31 MAY-1 JUN

13-14 SEP

£295

THE MOUNTAINEERING INSTRUCTOR CERTIFICATE (MIC) The Mountaineering Instructor Certificate covers the skills required for winter mountaineering and winter climbing in the UK. It also includes elements of training and assessment which Mountain Training feels are necessary for those advising and directing other courses of training or related activities. To find out more visit www.mountain-training.org

5 DAYS

MIC TRAINING

This 5 day course covers the teaching and instructing of snowcraft and icecraft including ropework and placement of ice anchors. Topics such as short roping, personal movement, route choice and teaching ice climbing are also covered. The days’ activities will be supplemented by evening lectures and activities.

You must be registered on the Mountaineering Instructor Certificate scheme with Mountain Training prior to attending this course and have the required experience.

This course is based at HF Holidays Country House Alltshellach near Glen Coe (see page 21 for details).

9-13 FEB

16-20 FEB

9-13 MAR

£675

4 DAYS

MIC ASSESSMENT

Before attending you must have attended an MIC training course, have 10 logged days of winter party management post MIC training, have 5 logged days climbing at grade 2 or above post MIC training and hold a valid first aid certificate. The 4 day course assesses your mountaineering skills, your personal climbing at grade 3 and your teaching skills over two days.

This course is based at HF Holidays Country House Alltshellach near Glen Coe (see page 21 for details).

24-27 FEB

34

3-6 MAR

10-13 MAR

£725

CARLO FORTE- CHIEF INSTRUCTOR & AUTHOR

As leaders in their field, many of our instructors and coaches have written books or produced DVDs. Most recently Carlo put together Mountain Training’s ‘Navigation in The Mountains’, recognised as the official navigation book for all Mountain Training’s award schemes. Here are Carlo’s thoughts on writing a book.

Let's just say it was an education. Simply having the knowledge of a subject isn't sufficient to write a book. You need to commit a huge amount of time and mental energy to reading, editing, re-writing, selecting photographs and diagrams and so on and so on. It seems like a never ending, thankless task. Then suddenly as the sandstorm of emails, responses, proofs and draft copies subsides - its done. The quiet is almost disappointing. Immediately your mind moves on and the book is tucked away in the back of your mind as you go back to the daily grind. Then all of a sudden - boom.

The first printed copy drops on to your desk. You look through it critically and heave a sigh of relief. Glad it’s over and glad it’s all okay. You find yourself asking the question “would I do it again?”

How did I answer? I answered ‘yes’ without hesitation. I’d love to write another book and I will.”

CONTINUED PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

2 DAYS

MOUNTAIN ASSESSOR TRAINING WORKSHOP

These two day workshops identify and develop the skills required to assess others in a mountain context. The programme examines the generic skills of assessing through theoretical presentations and practical application. Open to Mountain Training providers and holders of ML, WGL and SPA awards. £210 1-2 MAR 17-18 MAY 20-21 SEP 11-12 OCT 8-9 NOV

2 DAYS

MT TRAIN THE TRAINERS

This course aims to develop skills and knowledge in delivering training for any of the award schemes of Mountain Training (though it may also be of relevance to those delivering in house or equivalent schemes). The courses uses a variety of indoor and outdoor contexts in developing the generic skills of the trainer and course director. Attendees will be expected to prepare short presentations prior to the course. This is not an assessed course and no judgement will be made about the abilities of attendees at this event. Attendance will be considered as valuable experience should individuals subsequently apply to Mountain Training for approval as course directors.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - Open to Mountain Training Award Holders who are working towards becoming course directors and providers 5-6 APR

27-28 SEP

£150

29-30 NOV

1 DAY

BMC FUNDAMENTALS OF CLIMBING 1

This workshop comprises both theoretical and practical elements and is primarily aimed at climbers who work with and coach young people. Even if you work only with adults, you will still find much of the content appropriate.

Children participating in any sport are at risk of injury due to inappropriate activities or training techniques, and research carried out on the developing child has implications for those who coach them. The theoretical element looks at how the findings of this research can help shape the way in which climbing coaches working with children structure their work. All activities involve specific types of movement. The way body position impacts upon climbing style forms the practical element of the workshop since this can lead to an increase in performance and help in preventing climbing injuries.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE: led or assisted on group climbing sessions.

RESISDENTIAL NON-RES 22 MAR

10 MAY

23 AUG

6 SEP

£105

BMC FUNDAMENTALS OF CLIMBING 2

£75

1 DAY

A one-day BMC workshop for those coaching climbing who have already attended a BMC FUNdamentals of Climbing workshop. Broaden your knowledge of athlete development, and develop your coaching techniques for indoor and outdoor climbing. During this one day course you will cover precise and accurate footwork, explore ways of using different handholds, consider body positioning and take a close look at the different techniques used to climb on steep, vertical and slightly overhanging rock. This workshop is part of the training pathway for Mountain Training's new Climbing Coach award scheme RESISDENTIAL NON-RES PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE: completed BMC FUNdamentals of Climbing 1 23 MAR

11 MAY

24 AUG

MOUNTAIN ENVIRONMENT WEEKEND

7 SEP

£105

£75

2 DAYS

Ever wondered about the plants around your feet, or why the mountains are the shape they are, or how our mountains have been shaped by the vegetation that grows upon them? If you have, this weekend is for you.

Join us for a fun weekend introduction to the plants, animals and birds of Snowdonia along with a tour of the glacial landscape and even a few myths and legends thrown in! In the evening, you’ll spend some time identifying flowers, lichens and mosses you have seen during the day. All in all an enjoyable, interesting and rewarding weekend.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE: an interest in the mountains and a reasonable level of hillwalking fitness.

24-25 MAY

12-13 JUL

30-31 AUG

MOUNTAIN ENVIRONMENT WEEK

£195

5 DAYS

Have you ever stood on a hill top or coastal cliff and wondered about the landscape around you? Have you been inspired to find out more about the incredible diversity of plants, birds, animals and trees? Over five days we’ll help you find the answers to those questions. You’ll enjoy an informative odyssey through the mountains, moorland, and coastline of Snowdonia led by our experienced instructors, all of whom live and work in this beautiful environment.

You’ll take a look at the geographical elements that have shaped the land, examine the habitats that have been created, whilst you uncover the vast numbers of species that now thrive here. At the end of each day you’ll enjoy using our extensive resources to identify any interesting plants, rocks or bugs you saw during the walk.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE: an interest in the mountains and a reasonable level of hillwalking fitness. £460 12-16 MAY 2-6 JUN 25-29 AUG

35

RAPID RAPID DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT CLINICS CLINICS Now there’s a way to cut down the learning time, speed up the process and ‘get good’ fast. Join us on one of our four-week rapid development clinics and you’ll be amazed just how much you progress. Investing time in your development now will allow you to have more exciting and satisfying adventures after you leave. You’ll find yourself miles along the personal development trail, amazing your friends with a new level of confidence ability and experience.

Staying with us for a four week break, you’ll receive coaching and instruction Monday to Friday, leaving you free to either rest or explore the mountains, crags, rivers, lakes or estuaries of North Wales under your own steam at the weekends. (This all-inclusive price includes seven-day-a-week accommodation on-site at Plas y Brenin).

With no experience necessary this is an ideal opportunity for anyone who’s always wanted to be a climber or a paddler with a few weeks to spare.

Although you can’t expect to become an ‘expert’ overnight, these four week clinics should leave you confident and experienced enough to enjoy your chosen mountain sport under your own steam. These rapid development clinics are a fantastic platform for long-term enjoyment of the mountains, rivers, lakes and sea.

The cost of each course includes all meals, accommodation and equipment hire during the 4 weeks.

RAPID DEVELOPMENT CLINIC - COMPLETE PADDLER

20 DAYS

If your experience of canoeing and kayaking is low or even non existent, checking in to this four week clinic will have you thrashing about on the water like an ‘old pro’ in no time.

Over four weeks our coaches will share their knowledge and expertise with you on a range of kayaking and canoeing disciplines. With time spent in canoes, kayaks, sea kayaks, slalom and and touring kayaks, you’ll develop a rock-solid set of paddling skills. Our coaches will help you develop a reliable roll and the essential safety techniques before guiding you through your development onto moving water. You’ll learn to keep yourself safe, navigate on the sea and perform white water rescues in raging white water rivers.

With our team’s close attention you’ll soon find yourself racing down rapids, playing on waves and plunging over drops with ever increasing confidence. What’s more, with the variety of options you’ll simply look out of the window each morning and choose an adventure to that suits the weather perfectly.

5-30 MAY

11 AUG-5 SEP

RAPID DEVELOPMENT CLINIC - MOUNTAINEERING

£2500

20 DAYS

If you’ve dreamt of conquering high mountain peaks and exploring the remote mountain wilderness, here’s your chance to turn that dream into reality. Spend a month with our mountaineering instructors enjoying the mountains of North Wales at their finest.

Over four weeks in the mountains, you’ll cover everything you need to know to turn you into a self sufficient mountaineer. Discover how to navigate accuraetly with a map and compass, even in a raging storm or complete darkness. Uncover the strategies behind complex ropework and the principles of hazard awareness as you progress to scambling and traversing many of North Wales most exposed rocky ridges. Find out how to make wild camping in the mountains more of a pleasure than a chore and feel your confidence soar as you as you move through your journey from mountain newcomer to seasoned veteran in four weeks.

5-30 MAY

11 AUG-5 SEP

RAPID DEVELOPMENT CLINIC - CLIMBING

£2500

20 DAYS

Now’s your chance to really make some progress as a climber. If you’ve climbed a little indoors or seen climbers from afar and admired their strength and confidence, this is your opportunity to join them.

Over four weeks you’ll receive close instruction from our expert instructors, helping you develop from novice to confident, experienced practitioner. You’ll feel the difference in your own mind as you develop your confidence and improve your judgement and you’ll see the difference as you master the ropework skills, balance and movement techniques.

Climbing on all kinds of rock at many classic venues, you’ll do more than your fair share of climbing too and, as you’ll learn all about gear selection, route choice, guidebooks, access and many other surrounding issues you will leave the course confident enough to call yourself a ‘climber.’

This month-long break is also ideal for anyone who is entering the sport ‘with their teenage years long behind them’ who’d like to make rapid progress and make up for some of that lost time.

5-30 MAY

11 AUG-5 SEP

SUPER RAPID DEVELOPMENT CLINIC - CLIMBING

£2500

15 DAYS

This year we had lots of comments and requests asking if we could run a rapid development clinic during the school/college/university holidays, so here it is. Sure, it's a little bit shorter, that's the only way we could make it fit but on the plus side - it's a little bit cheaper too.

Over these three weeks you can really improve your climbing, enjoying close coaching form our top climbers Monday to Friday and choosing to rest or to go out and do your own thing at the weekends.

Ideal for anyone starting off in climbing who would like it to really get going with a great foundation in a new sport or for anyone stuck on a performance plateau who'd really like to get their climbing moving again.

11-29 AUG

36

£1875

FAST TRACK INSTRUCTOR

If you’d like to develop a career in the outdoors, our well-established fast track training programme could provide the ideal launch pad.

Over this intensive and exciting four-month training period you’ll work towards a clutch of National Governing Body Awards, gather a huge amount of experience and develop your personal skills.

What’s more, when you leave you’ll take with you the respect and recognition that comes with having been trained at the National Mountain Centre Rubbing shoulders with the instructors, you’ll stay in on-site accommodation seven days a week at Plas y Brenin, even though your course only runs Monday to Friday. That way there will be options to either join in with other courses taking place at the weekends or simply go climbing or paddling with your new-found friends at the National Mountain Centre. What’s more, you’ll enjoy three hearty meals a day, overlooking Snowdon in our scenic dining room.

FAST TRACK INSTRUCTOR

80 DAYS

During this intensive and exciting course you’ll receive personal skills training in kayaking, open canoeing, hill and mountain walking, rock climbing, orienteering, first aid, risk awareness and hazard management.

As part of a personalised programme, you may complete coaching and leadership training courses for the following CWA (see p32), SPA (see p33) WGL (see p27), ML Summer (see p30), REC First Aid at Work (see p41), BCU/UKCC Level 1 Certificate (see p54) and British Cycling Level 2 in Mountain Bike Leadership Training (see p8).

For those with a greater range of experience, and perhaps some of the above qualifications, it may be possible to work towards or complete some of the following - ML Winter (see p30), IML training (see p32), MIA training (see p34), BCU/UKCC Level 2 Certificate (see p54), BCU WW Safety and Rescue (see p51) and REC First Aid Trainer (see p41).

At the end of four months with us you’ll be able to look back on an incredible experience, during which you will have: • BEEN COACHED BY THE LEADERS IN THE FIELD. • PADDLED AND CLIMBED ALONGSIDE THE MOST EXPERIENCED COACHES AND INSTRUCTORS IN THE COUNTRY. • BEEN ABLE TO USE THE PLAS Y BRENIN NAME TO OPEN DOORS IN THE OUTDOOR INDUSTRY. • BENEFITED FROM OUR VAST ARRAY OF EXPERIENCE WORKING IN THE OUTDOOR INDUSTRY. • RECEIVED INPUT FROM LONG-TERM CAREER PROFESSIONALS EVERY DAY. • HAD ACCESS TO A FANTASTIC RANGE OF EQUIPMENT. • STAYED IN EXCELLENT ACCOMMODATION IN THE BEATING HEART OF THE UK OUTDOOR SCENE. • TRAINED IN A VARIETY OF TEACHING AND COACHING STYLES. • SPENT 4 MONTHS WITH LIKE-MINDED PEOPLE. • HAD THE GREATEST CHANCE POSSIBLE TO ACHIEVE YOUR POTENTIAL AS A CLIMBER, PADDLER MOUNTAIN BIKER AND MOUNTAINEER. • HAD ACCESS TO A MENTOR AT EVERY STAGE OF YOUR DEVELOPMENT. • WORKED TOWARDS GAINING A WIDE VARIETY OF NATIONAL GOVERNING BODY QUALIFICATIONS – GIVEN YOUR START POINT EXPERIENCE. 6 JAN - 24 APR • SAVED UP TO 10 DAYS OF ASSESSMENT CREDITS AT PLAS Y BRENIN £9,920 SO YOU CAN RETURN LATER IN THE YEAR TO ATTEND NATIONAL GOVERNING BODY ASSESSMENT COURSES FREE OF CHARGE

To help streamline your career development even further, our staff will be able to guide you through registration with each of the necessary national governing bodies helping you to understand the progression and pre-requirements for each scheme. You will be expected to cover the cost of each registration yourself.

The course cost includes all meals, accommodation and equipment hire during the four months.

HELEN TEASDALE - FAST TRACK CO-ORDINATOR A highly accomplished climber, mountaineer, paddler, fell runner, triathlete and an outdoor instructor for over 20 years, Helen knows this industry inside out.

Here’s what she thinks about the Fast Track Instructor Scheme.

“I ran our fast track scheme for the first time last year. Working with twelve very individual people for fours months is a hugely rewarding challenge. The best bit for me was seeing impact the scheme had on each individual. Some were looking for personal development, others were focused starting a career in the outdoor industry whilst for many it was both. I am really looking forward to steering many more fast trackers in the right direction, making sure they make well informed and carefully considered decisions on their way to a successful career in the outdoor industry.”

37

Changabang

Lhotse

Tupilak

Setting the standard for those seeking out full protection on the hardest routes and the toughest descents.

An outstanding all-round waterproof shell for serious walkers and mountaineers who demand 4-season protection.

A technical shell jacket ideally suited to alpine and expedition climbing on the steepest lines and biggest faces.

Cloud Peak

Manaslu

An uncompromising and fully featured Women’s hardshell for any serious mountain or ski use.

Our premier Women’s hardshell offering total protection for alpine and winter climbing anywhere in the world.

Lhotse Jacket Featuring a new Alpine fit, award-winning HC hood, YKK® Aquaguard® zips and the new generation GORE-TEX® Pro fabric. An outstanding waterproof jacket for serious walkers & mountaineers who demand full function, 4-season protection.

38

New GORE-TEX速 Pro range from Mountain Equipment t *NQSPWFE SVHHFEOFTT t 6Q UP JODSFBTFE CSFBUIBCJMJUZ t %VSBCMF XBUFS BOE XJOEQSPPGOFTT Piendam aut vellant quis sa volupta ectibus andandiciur? Otatios mod quam, ulpa il idel eum se duntet inverendunti volentu reptatu restiam voluptio. Ut utem. Et aut voluptas dolesti onsequam ex et labo. Nis voluptiossit labore vendi oditiis et diatiis rem iuntiunt et dolorum ima dis nonsent esectate volorehendus sequid modiciis quuntibea volum fugia consero cus.nossi con et.

Our new range of GORE-TEX速 Pro jackets have been engineered from the ground-up with improved fit, functionality and features.

In collaboration with Gore and the instructor team at Plas-Y-Brenin, we have developed a range of waterproofs that are proven to perform in the toughest of conditions and offer significantly improved levels of breathability.

These shells will keep you protected and keep you dry whatever the environment, whatever the weather.

Dave Rudkin | Plas-Y-Brenin Instructor Lhotse Jacket | Rive Gauche, Chamonix

DPNQBSFE UP QSFWJPVT GORE-TEX速 Pro products Lukasz Warzecha

mountain-equipment.co.uk

39

POWERED BY

ADVENTURE

Side zip for easy access to buried items

Reinforced ski attachment straps

Flexible Vari Flex hip belt is detachable

GUIDE 30+ SL GUIDE 35+ Alpine series SL – Women’s Fit model www.deutergb.co.uk t: 0191 296 0212

FIRST AID TRAINING All the first aid training provided at Plas y Brenin is offered under the authority of Rescue Emergency Care (REC). The courses are conducted according to Health and Safety Executive (HSE) regulations. REC provides a national structure in which trainers can work while enhancing courses by using their own experiences and expertise. This allows Plas y Brenin to run courses specifically for the outdoor mountain and water environment. The emphasis on these courses is in practically based training which will provide knowledge and confidence. These courses will not turn you into a medical encyclopedia but they will give you the strategies you need to manage properly in an emergency.

EMERGENCY FIRST AID

2 DAYS

A practical two-day course designed for people who work in the outdoors or who use the outdoors for pleasure. It is recognised as the minimum qualification for most qualfications including Mountain Leader, Single Pitch Award, BCU Coach Qualifications and Mountain Bike Leader Awards. Practical scenarios play a big part in this course, including dealing with multiple casualty situations. Includes AED (Automatic External Defibrillator) training.

This course is certified as Emergency First Aid at Work PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none required.

11-12 JAN 8-9 MAR 7-8 JUN 30-31 AUG 29-30 NOV 13-14 JAN 15-16 MAR 14-15 JUN 13-14 SEP 6-7 DEC 18-19 JAN 12-13 APR 5-6 JUL 27-28 SEP 13-14 DEC 1-2 FEB 26-27 APR 19-20 JUL 11-12 OCT 15-16 FEB 10-11 MAY 2-3 AUG 1-2 NOV £210 1-2 MAR 24-25 MAY 16-17 AUG 15-16 NOV

MOUNTAIN FIRST AID

3 DAYS

This course covers all the content of the Emergency Course and has additional time to deal with the types of injuries and problems typical of the mountain environment such as hypothermia, frostbite, casualty handling and moving, and the procedures for dealing with accidents in remote places. This course is only distinguished from the Standard First Aid at Work in the Outdoor Environment course by the lack of a formal HSE examination. It is appropriate for the Mountaineering Instructor, Single Pitch and Mountain Leader Schemes, Mountain Bike Leader Awards, the Association of British Mountain Guides and those operating in remote areas. Includes AED (Automatic External Defibrillator) training.

This course is certified as Emergency First Aid at Work PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none required.

24-26 JAN 7-9 APR 23-27 JUN 25-27 AUG 1-3 OCT £295 10-12 MAR

MOUNTAIN BIKE FIRST AID

3 DAYS

This course covers all the content of the Emergency Course and has additional time to deal with the types of injuries and problems typical of a mountain bike environment and the procedures for dealing with accidents in remote places.

This course is only distinguished from the Standard First Aid at Work in the Outdoor Environment course by the lack of a formal HSE examination. It is appropriate for most qualifications incluing British Cycling Mountain Bike Leader Awards and those operating in remote areas. Includes AED (Automatic External Defibrillator) training.

This course is certified as Emergency First Aid at Work PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none required. £295 11-13 JUN 3-5 OCT

FIRST AID AT WORK IN THE OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENT

4 DAYS

Plas y Brenin runs a First Aid at Work course over 4 days and not 3 due to the extensive outdoor content. The course follows the HSE syllabus but with a clear emphasis on the outdoor environment. Practical scenarios and class based sessions are followed by a formal, independent assessment of skills and knowledge. The holder of this certificate can then be recognised as the First Aider at Work and is able to organise the first aid provision at work according to HSE guidelines. This certificate is required by all first aid trainers. It also, of course validates Governing Body Awards PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none required.

6-9 JAN 24-27 FEB 13-16 OCT 10-13 NOV 1-4 DEC £420 3-6 FEB 12-15 MAY

ADVANCED FIRST AID

2 DAYS

If you want to gain further confidence, plan to visit remote areas or become a first aid trainer these two days are an important step. Our highly qualified and experienced instructors will guide you carefully through the more advanced, non-invasive techniques of first aid. Includes AED (Automatic External Defibrillator) training.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - REC Standard course or First Aid at Work in the Outdoor Environment. £295 18-19 JAN 25-26 OCT

FIRST AID TRAINERS COURSE

4 DAYS

On completion of this course you can start to gain practical experience working alongside REC trainers and provide courses of your own under the supervision of a senior trainer. Independent trainer status within REC is appproved on an individual basis.The course looks at how to set up and run first aid courses and goes on to focus on specific teaching skills culminating in video analysis of your own lecture presentation.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - hold a valid First Aid at Work Certificate and have completed any REC First Aid Course (to ensure that you are familiar with the REC approach to training). £605 24-27 FEB 17-20 NOV

41

KAYAKING

For paddlers Plas y Brenin couldn’t be in a better place. We’re surrounded by all kinds of water, from the fast flowing rivers and still picturesque lakes of Snowdonia to the rolling surf and tidal streams of the Anglesey coast. That’s not all. The facilities for paddlers at Plas y Brenin itself are second to none. We’ve an indoor heated rolling pool, our own section of grade II rapids and a huge unspoiled lake right at the bottom of the garden. As far as the gear’s concerned, we make sure all the equipment you use on your course is modern and well maintained without adding a penny to the cost of the courses and our extensive fleet of boats means you can try out all kinds of canoes and kayaks during your stay. But the real secret of our success lies in the passion and experience of our coaches. Each and every one of our coaches is an enthusiast - they just love to paddle and it’s their love for the sport that makes them want to introduce others to it. Between them they boast a huge list of ground breaking expeditions, first descents and international achievements, all of which serves to enrich their coaching and leads to a more enriching and rewarding learning experience for you. So if you’d like to learn to paddle, improve your technique quickly, or just get out there and soak up some of Britain’s finest water, pick a course and give us a call.

DISCOVER KAYAKING

2 DAYS

A weekend designed to give you an enjoyable introduction to kayaking.

You'll cover everything from what clothing and equipment to choose right up to basic rescue skills, not to mention plenty of paddling. By the end of the weekend you'll have all of the foundation skills to confidently progress in your new sport.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none.

19-20 APR 17-18 MAY 28-29 JUN 9-10 AUG 13-14 SEP £215 26-27 APR 14-15 JUN 12-13 JUL

INTRODUCTION TO KAYAKING

5 DAYS

A five day course which will give you a thorough grounding in kayaking. You will be introduced to all the equipment and basic skills on local rivers, lakes and sea. On this course there is ample opportunity for coaching and progression in white water and sea kayaking.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none.

17-21 MAR 31 MAR-4 APR

7-11 APR 21-25 APR

2-6 JUN 23-27 JUN

30 JUN-4 JUL 14-18 JUL

8-12 SEP

WHITE WATER SEA AND SURF

£490

5 DAYS

You've decided you like kayaking. Now it's time to experience racing down the face of a surf wave, bouncing down a rapid and explore some stunning coastline. These five days of white water fun will give you an introduction to all the techniques you need to handle a boat in the exciting wild water of British rivers and sea. You'll also be introduced to rolling and we guarantee you'll have plenty of opportunity to develop your roll!

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - confident flat water paddler with the ability to manoeuvre your craft with ease.

31 MAR-4 APR 14-18 APR

42

28 APR-2 MAY 26-30 MAY

9-13 JUN 21-25 JUL

18-22 AUG 1-5 SEP

6-10 OCT

£505

20% Member discount on our self catering bunkhouses or farmhouse for your group or club. The ideal base for a paddling holiday in North Wales (see p 66-67).

DISCOVER WHITE WATER KAYAKING

2 DAYS

A weekend designed to introduce you to the thrills and spills of white water. You’ll cover everything from clothing and equipment to foundation white water skills. By the end of the course you will have tackled your first white water and have the confidence to tackle the rapids under your own steam.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - confident flat water paddler with the ability to manoeuvre your craft with ease, able to perform a confident and controlled capsize with a spraydeck on.

22-23 FEB 8-9 MAR 12-13 APR 7-8 JUN 4-5 OCT £220 1-2 MAR 15-16 MAR 10-11 MAY 20-21 SEP 25-26 OCT

INTRODUCTION TO WHITE WATER KAYAKING

5 DAYS

A week for kayakers who have decided to specialise in white water or for white water paddlers looking to build confidence and control by refining their white water technique. Our aim is to refine your existing paddling skills and coach you in more advanced techniques like breaking in and out, ferry gliding, surfing standing waves and small stoppers. River reading, rescue and rolling will be an integral part of the course. A week of grade II and easy grade III water.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - confident flat water paddler with the ability to manoeuvre your craft and perform a confident capsize with a spraydeck on.

7-11 APR 28 APR-2 MAY

1-5 SEP

22-26 SEP

6-10 OCT

INTROMEDIATE WHITE WATER KAYAKING

20-24 OCT

£505

5 DAYS

A five day course on grade II and III white water designed for kayakers who have some white water experience but lack the confidence to move on to the intermediate course. Whether you have limited experience on moving water, you’ve had a knock in confidence due to a ‘big swim’, or you’ve simply been ‘out of your boat’ for a few years, this course is an ideal confidence booster. Initially you’ll spend time consolidating your existing paddling skills before developing your balance and moving on to more advanced techniques. You will also enjoy a more in-depth insight into river reading, rescue and further develop your roll. The course should help you become more comfortable and relaxed on the water so you’ll enjoy your paddling more than you ever thought possible.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - some white water experience, able to perform a flat water roll.

3-7 FEB 7-11 JUL 25-29 AUG 13-17 OCT 27-31 OCT £520 12-16 MAY

BELOW AND BEYOND MOUNT KENYA For Plas y Brenin Paddlesport coaches Pete Catterall, Spike Green and Adam Harmer it’s hard to beat the spread of emotions that are felt when seeking out the unknown. Most recently they headed for Kenya in search of unpaddled rivers. Six times they snapped on their spraydecks to face themselves and the challenges of the rivers they love.

Below and Beyond Machu Pichu in ‘09 was a great experience for us all. Great rivers, mind-blowing experiences, but most of all the bonding of the team. The way we gelled into a tight unit - laughing, pushing and sharing one of those great times of our lives! So we thought we’d better do it again (and again! Watch out for ‘Below and Beyond ……. 2014!).

Below and Beyond Mount Kenya was every bit as much fun as the Peru trip, different, but great. This time the rivers were all day trips. But as with most first descents what we were to face was totally unknown! Which for us is a large part of the reason we do it –“What’s going to be there? How will I cope, physically and mentally?” Day after day we swooped and flowed on chocolate water under blue skies, buzzing with a unique blend of anxiety and excitement – in anticipation of what lay ‘below and beyond’.

43

44

TYPE TWO FUN

45No turning back for Jake Holland on Tomata One, Mexico (see opposite top for details)

JAKE HOLLAND - KAYAK COACH Jake is a kayak coach at Plas y Brenin. When he is not coaching at the National Mountain Centre you’ll find him travelling the world in search of adventure. Here, in his own words Jake describes a moment or two from his last trip to Mexico.

It’s about the twentieth time in five minutes that I’ve visualied what it might be like to drop in over Tomata One’s lofty top. Now my time’s up. The first man has already gone and the other boys are all waiting for me to go. But I’m scared. This isn’t ‘fun’. At least not the way I remember it. So many worries. What if it all goes wrong? The foaming pool some twenty meters below is not a place to be injured. The climb-out from the falls is already hard enough, let alone the consequence of missing that last eddy and dropping over the far more committing and complex Tomata two.

Eye’s shut, my mind focuses deeper beyond the doubting voices. Focus. A splash of water to the face. No backing out now, the flow has control and that lip is getting ever closer. Time briefly slows to reveal the full beauty of what’s bellow. In the next precious second I place my paddle, attempting to settle the boat on vertical. Time starts to catch up with the ever increasing speed. The water in the distant pool is now rushing up to meet me. I throw my paddle and tuck tight for the impact.

It’s a glorious sight, looking back up at that glistening cascade. I cant help but smile and hoot. Now that is fun. Type two fun!

INTERMEDIATE WHITE WATER KAYAKING

5 DAYS

Running wild rivers is all about judgement. This week gives you the experience and skills you need to make those decisions. You'll concentrate on developing boat positioning skills, refine your judgement and practical techniques to help you become a good white water paddler.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - competent Grade II paddler with some experience of Grade III. A reliable flat water roll.

13-17 JAN 10-14 FEB 10-14 MAR 17-21 NOV 1-5 DEC £520 27-31 JAN 24-28 FEB 24-28 MAR

DAYS 25DAYS

PERFORMANCE WHITE WATER KAYAKING

Intermediate or advanced white water paddlers will find this two-day personal improvement programme a perfect way to hone their paddling skills . High staff to student ratios combined with top level coaching give maximum opportunity for improvement.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - competent grade II paddler with some experience of grade III. A reliable moving water roll.

11-12 JAN 18-19 JAN 8-9 FEB 22-23 FEB

15-16 MAR 29-30 MAR 7-8 JUN 26-27 JUL

30-31 AUG 27-28 SEP 11-12 OCT

18-19 OCT 25-26 OCT 1-2 NOV

8-9 NOV 15-16 NOV 29-30 NOV

ADVANCED WHITE WATER KAYAKING

£240

5 DAYS

A week of technique coaching from our top coaches. Over these five days you’ll work closely with our most experienced and qualified coaches to help you take your paddling skills further than you ever thought possible. You’ll enjoy lots and lots of great paddling and you’ll feel your skill level soar as the week goes on.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - competent grade II paddler with some experience of grade III and a reliable moving water roll. £535 20-24 JAN 17-21 FEB 24-28 NOV

ROLLING CLINIC

2 DAYS

Using our pool, lake and river, our expert coaches will help you develop a strong, dependable roll in a variety of conditions.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - able to perform a confident capsize with a spraydeck.

18-19 JAN 15-16 MAR 14-15 JUN 27-28 SEP 8-9 FEB 19-20 APR 28-29 AUG 11-12 OCT 22-23 NOV £220 1-2 MAR 10-11 MAY 11-12 SEP 8-9 NOV 13-14 DEC

ROLLING RECONSTRUCTION

2 DAYS

If you've been having trouble with your roll or have 'lost' your roll all together this course is ideal for you. Progressing at your own pace, our coaches will assess your roll and design a programme to consolidate and refine your technique.

Whatever your starting point, one day spent in the pool and a second out on the water will move you towards a confident reliable roll.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - 50% effective roll 25-26 JAN 22-23 MAR 16-17 AUG 22-23 FEB 28-29 JUN 30-31 AUG

20-21 SEP

15-16 NOV

£225

THE BOMBPROOF ROLL

5 DAYS

Five days spent developing your roll into something you know you can depend on. Using our indoor heated rolling pool you will develop the fundamental techniques before heading out onto the rivers to test out your skills.

Then over the week you’ll spend time at different white water or salt water venues putting it in to practice, then you’ll return to the centre to analyse video footage, correct your faults, work on your weaknesses and build on your strengths in our pool.

A week of challenging paddling focused on developing your roll which will send your confidence soaring.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - a ‘pool’ roll with some Grade II experience 5-9 MAY

23-27 JUN

30 JUN-4 JUL

1-5 SEP

29 SEP-3 OCT

£520

46

SEA KAYAKING

DISCOVER SEA KAYAKING

2 DAYS

A weekend course for paddlers who want to get to grips with sea kayaking. Based around the coast of Anglesey and the Lleyn Peninsula, paddling in some of the most beautiful, wildlife-rich coastal waters in the UK, this course will provide you with a basic understanding of kayak handling techniques that are specific to the sea.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - confident flat water paddler with the ability to manoeuvre your craft with ease.

26-27 APR 24-25 MAY 14-15 JUN 9-10 AUG 30-31 AUG £220 3-4 MAY 31 MAY-1 JUN 12-13 JUL 23-24 AUG

INTRODUCTION TO SEA KAYAKING

5 DAYS

A five-day course for paddlers who want to specialise in sea kayaking. It'll give you a basic knowledge of the sea and the kayak handling techniques specific to salt water, whilst also taking you through planning a coastal journey, tides, weather forecasting and sea safety. The North Wales coastline provides ideal venues for exciting and inspirational exploratory journeys.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - confident flat water paddler with the ability to manoeuvre your craft with ease.

7-11 APR 28 MAY-1 JUN 9-13 JUN 7-11 JUL 21-25 JUL

£505

LIGHTHOUSES, CLIFFS AND CAVES

2 DAYS

A weekend sea paddling holiday. With the emphasis on paddling experience not skills development, our coaches will take you on a tour of some of the most memorable paddling spots the North Wales coast has to offer. A great chance to enjoy breathtaking views and natural wildlife from the tranquility of a sea kayak. An excellent course for those who have been on our ‘Introduction to Sea Kayaking’ courses.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - some sea paddling experience and able to perform a confident capsize.

5-6 APR 19-20 APR 28-29 JUN 26-27 JUL 9-10 AUG £225

INTROMEDIATE SEA KAYAKING

5 DAYS

A five-day course for those paddlers who consider themselves more than a beginner but not quite confident or experienced enough to join our ‘Intermediate Sea Kayaking’course. You’ll enjoy revising and developing your existing sea kayak techniques as well as learning about rescue and safety along with developing your roll in our heated indoor pool. All of this is wrapped up with many memorable journeys around some of the UK’s most stunning coastal waters, where you’ll get to grips with the fundamental skills of trip planning, navigation and seamanship (and enjoy the scenery).

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - sea kayaking experience in a range of sea states and a good level of fitness that would enable you to paddle 10-15 miles per day.

12-16 MAY 14-18 JUL 18-22 AUG 15-19 SEP 29 SEP-3 OCT £520

INTERMEDIATE SEA KAYAKING

5 DAYS

A week long course for paddlers who want to improve their kayak handling and rough water skills, as well as boost their experience of practical and theoretical seamanship and navigation. More importantly this week will take you on a tour of some of the finest coastal trips the UK has to offer, broadening your experience and making sure you get the most out of each spectacularly scenic journey.

You’ll even have the opportunity to take-off on a mini expedition, carrying all your equipment and spending one night under canvas before setting off the next day.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - sea kayaking experience in a range of sea states up to force four winds and a good level of fitness that would enable you to paddle 15-20 miles per day. £520 5-9 MAY 8-12 SEP 22-26 SEP

47

SEA KAYAK IMPROVER

2 DAYS

Does exactly what it says on the tin! Two days covering the essential areas of sea kayaking, navigation, safety and rescue. You’ll spend the first morning in the classroom, looking carefully at how to plan sea trips including tidal and weather considerations before heading out onto the water to put it all into practice. Day two is all about staying safe on the water, dealing with incidents including towing, rescuing capsized paddlers and getting yourself back into your boat.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - competent sea kayaker £220 19-20 JUL 16-17 AUG 30-31 AUG

ROUGH WATER HANDLING

2 DAYS

A course for capable sea paddlers who want to move onto rough water. During two days coaching on the sea you’ll build skills confidence on over-falls, tidal races, waves or surf, leaving you more confident and relaxed in your kayak.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - competent sea kayaker, experience in force three winds and a reliable salt water roll.

3-4 MAY 10-11 MAY 5-6 JUL 2-3 AUG 20-21 SEP £270

PERFORMANCE SEA KAYKING

5 DAYS

A week spent working closely with our coaches to fine tune your sea kaykaing skills and build your knowledge and confidence to help you become a truly accomplished sea paddler. During this bespoke week of journeys and adventures our coaches will assess your paddling and help you develop where you need it most. You’ll cover plenty of sea miles and visit a variety of challenging tidal features during the week as you learn how to handle over-falls, deal with tidal races and waves and lots, lots more, leaving you a more confident, experienced and skillful paddler.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - competent sea kayaker, experience in force four winds plus a reliable salt water roll.

29 MAR-2 APR 11-15 AUG 10-14 NOV £570

WINTERMEDIATE SEA KAYAKING

5 DAYS

Extending the season for intermediate sea paddlers, this week will open your eyes to what is possible in the winter months. It’s as much about confidence as it is commitment and with both in your locker you’ll soon realise that there absolutely no reason to hang your paddle up for winter.

Over the week our coaches will share their knowledge in all kinds of areas as you paddle on the estuaries and coastal waters of Anglesey, North Wales and the Lleyn Peninsula. With additional sessions on safety, navigation, expedition planning and advanced paddle technique, this really is a an exciting step up for the intermediate paddler.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - sea kayaking experience in a range of sea states and a good level of fitness that would enable you to paddle 10-15 miles per day.

3-7 FEB 3-7 MAR 17-21 NOV 1-5 DEC 8-12 DEC £500 10-14 FEB 3-7 NOV

GUIDED SEA KAYAK CLASSICS

5 DAYS

Five days of guided sea paddling on the coasts of Anglesey, North Wales and the Lleyn Peninsula taking in some of the Welsh classics along the way. With the focus on simply ‘clocking up the miles’, you’ll take on a different journey each day, enjoying the scenery and the company as you go. The spectacular sea cliffs, beautiful islands and the abundance of wildlife go together to make this a week to remember, so don’t forget to bring your camera.

A great way for anyone with a solid foundation in sea kayaking to boost their experience.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - sea kayaking experience in a range of sea states and a good level of fitness that would enable you to paddle 10-15 miles per day. £515 26-30 MAY 14-18 JUL 25-29 AUG

SEA KAYAK ROLLING CLINIC

2 DAYS

Rolling a sea kayak demands technique and finesse in equal measure but once mastered it is a skill that will increase your confidence as a paddler, making your journeys on the sea far more rewarding. This unique weekend clinic focuses on the specific skills required to roll a sea kayak.

Using our indoor heated rolling pool and our private lake, our coaches will teach you how to roll these large, elegant boats with style. Starting with the absolute basics, you’ll progress to confidently rolling a sea kayak in our pool and then fine tune your skills outside on the lake, always with our coaches guiding you towards perfect technique.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - confident to capsize wearing a spraydeck.

11-12 JAN 15-16 FEB 29-30 MAR 26-27 APR 1-2 FEB 8-9 MAR 12-13 APR 24-25 MAY

THE BOMBPROOF SEA KAYAK ROLL

4-5 OCT 29-30 NOV

£220

5 DAYS

Five days spent developing your roll into something you know you can depend on. Using our indoor heated rolling pool you will develop the fundamental techniques before heading out onto the sea to test out your skills.

Then over the week you’ll spend time at different bays, coves and estuaries, seeking out challenging water, to ensure you put your roll in to practice. You’ll return to the centre to analyse video footage, correct your faults, work on your weaknesses and build on your strengths in our pool.

A week of challenging paddling focused on developing your roll which will send your confidence soaring.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - some experience rolling and comfortable in a range of sea states.

21-25 APR 9-13 JUN 30 JUN-4 JUL 25-29 AUG 6-10 OCT £520 12-16 MAY

48

Gear for paddlers There’s something for everybody at Plas y Brenin; family adventure days, canoe trips in a national park, sea kayaking under towering sea cliffs and whitewater classics all around. That’s why we put our gear to the test at the National Mountain Sports Centre.

Do it all in Palm gear.

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH PALM°EQUIPMENT SINCE 1992

Search online for Palm Equipment

ICE, ICE BABY

SID SINFIELD LEVEL 5 SEA KAYAK COACH AT PLAS Y BRENIN Always in search of bigger and bolder adventures, PYB’s top sea-dog Sid, along with PYB veteran Ollie Sanders and friend Nige Robinson headed off to the icy waters of Upernavik in Greenland with a plan to circumnavigate the islands of Qaersorssuaq and Nutarmuit Greenland. On a three-week journey, paddling over 260 kilometers in heavily laden kayaks, they would have far more than just their paddling skills tested to the limit. Here are a few words of reflection from Sid. “Being totally self reliant is the thing I really love about expeditions. Knowing that it’s just you. No-one else can get you out of trouble and more importantly, no-one else can get you into trouble.

This journey had it all. Towering icebergs, shimmering with shape and colour. Calm, tranquil waters and beautiful scenic views interspersed with fierce, threatening seas and raging winds. The roller coaster of emotions you go through on these kind of trips is always a highlight to flick back through. Amazement and captivation at the natural beauty. Exhaustion at the end of each day’s mental and physical exertion. Sheer joy opening the day’s unmarked food bag to discover it is the favourite dried sausage and cheese. Fear, listening to a polar bear sniffing and scratching around outside the tent and relief when the noise turns out to be a group of inquisitive arctic fox cubs. But above all peace - the inner calm that comes with the simplification of life. No matter how tough it gets, this uncluttered existence always brings a humbling and peaceful sensation as you are reminded time and time again of your size and significance in the realm of the natural world.

CANOEING A traditional sport mixed with modern equipment and techniques, canoeing has a massively diverse appeal. Whether you want to move silently across a lake or estuary enjoying the close contact with wildlife that your stealth allows or you’d like to bounce down foaming white water, enjoying the rush that comes not only with staying in your boat but guiding your craft gracefully from one quiet eddy to another, canoeing has it all. The open canoe is versatile too. Once you’ve mastered this craft you’ll be able to enjoy the many opportunities it provides including tranquil wilderness travel, family adventures, multi-day expeditions and heart racing white water excitement.

DISCOVER CANOEING

2 DAYS

On this two-day introduction to the canoe you’ll learn foundation canoe handling skills as part of a tandem crew along with the principles required to paddle safely as part of a supervised group. On the second day you’ll refine your skills during a journey on a local river or lake.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none necessary.

5-6 APR 10-11 MAY 14-15 JUN 5-6 JUL 6-7 SEP £215 3-4 MAY 31 MAY-1 JUN 28-29 JUN 16-17 AUG 13-14 SEP

INTRODUCTION TO CANOEING

5 DAYS

A five-day course introducing you to the basics of handling an open canoe. Develop your boat handling skills both solo and as part of a tandem crew. Consolidate your new-found skills whilst travelling lakes, estuaries and tackling the tranquil rivers and simple whitewater.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none necessary.

7-11 APR 14-18 APR 12-16 MAY

2-6 JUN 30 JUN-4 JUL 7-11 JUL

14-18 JUL 18-22 AUG

25-29 AUG 15-19 SEP

22-26 SEP 20-24 OCT

CANOE WHITE WATER SKILLS

£505

2 DAYS

Aimed at capable flat water paddlers solo or tandem, who want to develop their white water boat-handling skills. Under the guidance of our experienced coaches you’ll cover strategies for running white water safely and confidently.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - confident flat water paddler with the ability to manoeuvre your craft with ease.

1-2 FEB 1-2 MAR

22-23 MAR 19-20 JUL

20-21 SEP

11-12 OCT

1-2 NOV

SOLO CANOE MASTERCLASS

£255

5 DAYS

This course is designed purely for the solo paddler. During the week your coach will develop your solo paddling skills, honing your performance to make you a true master of your craft. The boost in confidence and ability will help you enjoy your solo boating even more than you thought possible.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - have paddled in the stern of a tandem crew or have basic solo skills.

24-28 FEB

28 APR-2 MAY

29 SEP-3 OCT

13-17 OCT

WHITE WATER CANOE MASTERCLASS

3-7 NOV

£515

2 DAYS

This course aims to develop your solo canoe white water skills even further. During the week your coach will develop your technique, helping to make you a more balanced, intuitive paddler. Edging, timing, breaking in and out, stroke selection and stroke transition. You name it you will cover it during this week of white water coaching.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - confident white water paddler with the ability to manoeuvre your craft with ease.

25-26 JAN

51

27-28 SEP

18-19 OCT

15-16 NOV

£255

SAFETY AND RESCUE

BCU FOUNDATION SAFETY AND RESCUE

1 DAY

Included as part of our Level 1 Coach Development course, this important foundation module is also available as a stand alone day.

DRY SUITS PROVIDED PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - competent flat water paddler. £95 14 MAR 23 MAY 15 AUG 26 SEP

WHITE WATER RESCUE TECHNICIAN (RESCUE 3)

3 DAYS

A three-day course designed for Outdoor Professionals with existing river experience. Designed to provide you with the necessary skills to perform rescues in whitewater river situations. It is both classroom and river-based and will include: Hydrology and water dynamics, introduction to technical rescue equipment, hazard identification & risk assessment, introduction to rope systems, swimming in moving water, medical considerations, foot and body entrapments, scene management, contact and in-water rescues, two and four point boat and rope systems, crossing techniques, boat pins and entrapments.

DRY SUITS PROVIDED PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - competent grade II paddler and confident swimming in moving water.

£470

17-19 OCT

BCU WHITE WATER SAFETY AND RESCUE

2 DAYS

Run in conjunction with the BCU to coach recreational white water paddlers in all aspects of white water safety and rescue technique. The course covers safety (staying out of trouble), rescue (getting out of trouble) and boat and equipment recovery (dealing with trouble).

DRY SUITS PROVIDED PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - competent grade II paddler. £230 19-20 APR 10-11 MAY 2-3 AUG

BCU ADVANCED WHITE WATER SAFETY AND RESCUE

2 DAYS

A course designed for the trainee 5 star leader to cover safety and supervision of groups in advanced environments.

Training on steep bank security, recovery of boats, first aid considerations and advanced rope work enable the trainee leader to progress to assessment knowing they have the skills to supervise a group both on and off the water.

DRY SUITS PROVIDED PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - 5 star skills and leadership training. BCU White Water Safety and Rescue course.

8-9 MAR

20-21 SEP

4-5 OCT

15-16 NOV

£240

SAFE AND SOUND MOUNT KENYA Plas y Brenin kayak coaches Pete Catterall, Spike Green and Adam Harmer are always keen to put something back into their sport.

Recently they headed off to Mount Kenya where, in between a series of first descents, they took a few days to run BCU white water safety courses for the local guides. Here are Spike’s thoughts on the experience.

“The fact that White Water Kenya asked us to run white water safety, advanced white water safety and five star courses for their staff illustrates how highly thought of the BCU awards are across the world. We felt privileged to have the chance to help out and it was an amazing experience for all of us. Big rivers, big personalities, and big challenges. There was never a shortage of water or enthusiasm from the local crew but we had to be more flexible than ever with our plans. We were forced to change location on several occasions to avoid upsetting the local hippos and one course was interrupted when we had to perform a real life rescue on a farmhand who’s boss had asked him to move a dug-out down stream - through some gnarly grade 4 and over a natural weir! We pulled him to safety but only after his boat had tumbled off into the distance.

It felt great to welcome a bunch of Kenyan and Ugandan paddlers into the BCU scheme and fantastic to see the sport flourish in such an incredible spot.”

52

PADDLESPORT QUALIFICATIONS QUALIFICATIONS PADDLESPORT

FULL DETAILS AND A SYLLABUS FOR EACH BCU AWARD IS AVAILABLE ON THE BCU’S WEBSITE - VISIT - WWW.BCU.ORG.UK Plas y Brenin is unique as a BCU approved centre. We offer an extensive range of coach education courses with more dates available than any of our competitors. Our coaching team’s collective experience and qualifications are unrivalled in the UK, with more level five and aspirant level five coaches than any other centre. But it is our staff’s commitment to, and passion for, paddling that really makes them shine. Each one is dedicated to making sure you develop to the best of your ability both as a paddler and a coach. This successful mix is the reason so many people visit us and keep on visiting, enjoying continuity as they move on through their coaching career. Our influence in the world of UK paddling is highly evident, wherever you paddle in the UK. It is no underestimation to say you will come into direct contact with a Plas y Brenin Coach or a Coach who was trained or assessed here at some time.

BCU ‘COMPLETE TWO STAR’ TRAINING AND ASSESSMENT

5 DAYS

The BCU 2 Star is an improvement award that helps paddlers develop fundamental paddlesport skills on flat water in a variety of craft. The emphasis is on gaining a breadth of experience, moving of the boat effectively and developing an understanding of how the paddle, boat and water interact. Whilst it is possible to complete your two star award in three days, we feel this can be a little daunting for most paddlers.

Our five day program allows you to complete the first two days of training, then enjoy two further days consolidating and improving those skills in time for an assessment on the final day. This generic award covers both canoe and kayak skills on flat water and is the pre-requisite for any paddler aiming for their BCU level 1 coach award.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - experience of paddling two different craft £460 12-16 MAY 16-20 JUN 14-18 JUL 18-22 AUG 15-19 SEP

BCU ‘COMPLETE THREE STAR’ TRAINING AND ASSESSMENT

5 DAYS

The Three Star award is a big deal these days and although the training can be complete in two days, our coaches feel this can be too intense for many paddlers.This five day programme allows you to complete the three star training within a more digestable 4 days so you’ll really get to grips with those skills before your assessment on the final day.

The award is discipline specific and is the pre-requisite for BCU Level 2 certificate in coaching paddlesport.

PRE-REQUISITES - Two Star skills, though the award itself is not a requirement.

WHITE WATER KAYAK 17-21 FEB 10-14 MAR

14-18 APR 2-6 JUN

18-22 AUG

7-11 JUL

8-12 SEP

30 JUN-4 JUL

11-15 AUG

29 SEP-3 OCT

10-14 NOV

SEA KAYAK 28 APR-2 MAY

CANOE 5-9 MAY

BCU FOUR STAR LEADERS AWARD TRAINING

£460

2 DAYS

This two-day programme provides the minimum training requirements for this award. The course will cover the personal paddling and leadership skills necessary to prepare you for your four star leaders assessment. It will not cover any safety and rescue training so a BCU white-water safety and rescue course must be attended prior to assessment.

PRE-REQUISITES - Three star skills

WHITE WATER KAYAK TRAINING 4-5 OCT

15-16 NOV

CANOE TRAINING 5-6 APR

53

30-31 AUG

20-21 SEP

£240

BCU FOUR STAR SEA KAYAK LEADERS AWARD TRAINING

3 DAYS

This three-day programme provides the minimum training requirements for this award. The course will cover the paddling, leadership and safety skills necessary to prepare you for your four star leader assessment and a one day classroom based coastal navigation and tidal planning module.

PRE-REQUISITES - Three Star skills 4-6 JUL

£360

5-7 SEP

BCU FOUR STAR LEADERS AWARD PREPARATION

5 DAYS

We have designed this five-day programme to provide and exceed the training requirements for this award. The course will cover the paddling, planning, leadership and safety skills necessary to prepare you for your four star leader assessment and you will receive a personalised action plan, designed to guide you towards a successful assessment.

PRE-REQUISITES - Three Star skills,

WHITE WATER KAYAK PREPARATION 6-10 JAN

10-14 FEB

7-11 APR

13-17 OCT

21-25 JUL

15-19 SEP

SEA KAYAK PREPARATION 17-21 MAR

21-25 APR

CANOE PREPARATION 17-21 FEB

26-30 MAY

6-10 OCT

BCU FOUR STAR LEADERS AWARD ASSESSMENT

£515

2 DAYS

A two-day assessment course based on the four star syllabus.

PRE-REQUISITES - Four Star Leader Training and relevant safety and rescue or tidal planning module.

WHITE WATER KAYAK ASSESSMENT 25-26 JAN

6-7 SEP

SEA KAYAK ASSESSMENT 6-7 SEP

25-26 OCT

CANOE ASSESSMENT 16-17 AUG

£240

25-26 OCT

BCU FIVE STAR LEADERS AWARD PREPARATION

5 DAYS

We have designed this five-day programme to provide and exceed the training requirements for this award. The course will cover the paddling, leadership and safety skills necessary to prepare you for your five star leader assessment and you will receive a personalised action plan, designed to guide you towards a successful assessment.

PRE-REQUISITES - Four Star skills.

WHITE WATER KAYAK PREPARATION 13-17 JAN

10-14 MAR

24-28 NOV

SEA KAYAK PREPARATION 14-18 APR

11-15 AUG

13-17 OCT

CANOE PREPARATION 24-28 MAR

£515

22-26 SEP

BCU FIVE STAR LEADERS AWARD ASSESSMENT

2 DAYS

A two day assessment course based on the five star syllabus.

PRE-REQUISITES - Four Star, Five Star Leader Training and relevant safety and rescue or tidal planning module.

WHITE WATER KAYAK ASSESSMENT 15-16 FEB

8-9 MAR

SEA KAYAK ASSESSMENT 9-10 AUG

11-12 OCT

22-23 NOV 1-2 NOV

CANOE ASSESSMENT 8-9 FEB

£240

1-2 OCT

BCU FIVE STAR TOP UP TRAINING AND ASSESSMENT

5 DAYS

This five day top-up training and assessment is perfect if you are ready for your five star assessment but would like a little technical imput beforehand. You'll spend the first three days with our experienced coaches refreshing your five star skills, get any questions answered and get 'warmed up' ready for assessment. The final two days will be your five star assessment.

PRE-REQUISITES - Four Star, Five Star Leader Training and relevant safety and rescue or tidal planning module.

WHITE WATER KAYAK ASSESSMENT 24-28 MAR

20-24 OCT

1-5 DEC

£515

54

BCU FIVE STAR LEADERS AWARD TRAINING SCOTLAND

5 DAYS

To guarantee water levels, we're basing this course at the Inchree Bunkhouse in Onich. During this five-day course you will receive coaching on all areas of the five star syllabus including effective river running skills, rescue skills, safety, leadership and group management and risk management.

The course is non residential meeting at 9am each day at the Inchree Bunkhouse.

PRE-REQUISITES - Four Star NON-RESIDENTIAL

WHITE WATER KAYAK TRAINING

SEE WWW.PYB.CO.UK FOR COST

31 MAR-4 APR

BCU FIVE STAR LEADERS AWARD ASSESSMENT SCOTLAND

2 DAYS

To guarantee water levels, we're basing this course at the Inchree Bunkhouse in Onich. Over two days on the water, you will be assessed on your personal paddling skills, rescue skills, safety, leadership and group management skills.

The course is non residential meeting at 9am each day at the Inchree Bunkhouse.

PRE-REQUISITES - Four Star, Five Star Leader Training and relevant safety and rescue NON-RESIDENTIAL WHITE WATER KAYAK ASSESSMENT 29-30 MAR

SEE WWW.PYB.CO.UK FOR COST

BCU/UKCC LEVEL 1 CERTIFICATE IN COACHING PADDLESPORT

5 DAYS

This is the first level course for those who’d like to become a paddlesports coach. The course covers all elements of the syllabus including the foundation safety and rescue module. Students with experience and aptitude will leave able to coach alongside an experienced coach. Areas covered include: risk assessment, group management, basic teaching strategies, use of games within teaching, supervisory skills for the coach, opportunities for mentored practice, completion of assessment tasks, safety and rescue skills.

PRE-REQUISITES - 2 star and be able to perform the skills to a demonstration level, BCU Level 1 Coach registration 10-14 FEB 31 MAR-4 APR 30 JUN-4 JUL 18-22 AUG 22-26 SEP £510 10-14 MAR 26-30 MAY

BCU/UKCC LEVEL 2 TRAINING

5 DAYS

This is a five-day training course for the second level certificate in coaching paddle sport. This is a non-discipline specific course and students will learn the skills to teach in both canoe and kayak, a good standard of personal performance in both craft is required. The course will cover all elements of the training syllabus including; safety and rescue skills for the coach, risk management, coaching skills, planning programs for learners, supervisory skills, mentoring and supervision of assistants and a CPD module.

PRE-REQUISITES - Level 1 Coach Training, 2 star award, 3 star 3-7 MAR 12-16 MAY 7-11 JUL 15-19 SEP 3-7 NOV £510 21-25 APR

BCU/UKCC LEVEL 2 ASSESSMENT

1 DAY

If successful, this one-day assessment leads to certification as a Level 2 coach in paddlesports.

PRE-REQUISITES - valid first aid certificate, 3 star in main discipline and RESISDENTIAL NON-RES 3 star skills in an alternative, level 2 training, 20 hours coaching, child protection training, assessment tasks and CPD Modules.

2 MAY

£105

26 SEP

BCU MODERATE WATER PREPARATION

£75

2 DAYS

A two-day training course that will help you to transfer your Level 2 coaching skills into the moderate water environment.

During the course we will develop your technical understanding, “how to” skills in managing coaching sessions in a moderate water setting, as well as coaching and leading safely and effectively on the move.

PRE-REQUISITES - BCU Moderate Water registration, BCU Level 2 Coach, BCU 4 Star Leader Award in the appropriate discipline, a valid first aid certificate.

WHITE WATER KAYAK PREPARATION 15-16 FEB

29-30 MAR

SEA KAYAK PREPARATION 23-24 MAY

2-3 AUG

CANOE PREPARATION 29-30 MAR

£200

2-3 AUG

BCU MODERATE WATER ASSESSMENT

1 DAY

A one-day assessment course based on the BCU Level 2 moderate water syllabus. Candidates can do their Assessment on the day following training if all the pre-requisites are in place prior to training day. Candidate’s considering this option are advised to have a conversation before training commences with one of our training coaches to ensure their suitability to proceed to assessment the day after their training.

PRE-REQUISITES - Level 2 moderate water training in appropriate discipline, required experience gained

WHITE WATER KAYAK ASSESSMENT

1 MAR

2 MAR

4 OCT

31 OCT

SEA KAYAK ASSESSMENT

1 JUN

14 SEP

CANOE ASSESSMENT

55

23 MAY

31 MAY

RESISDENTIAL NON-RES 21 SEP

30 SEP

£105

£75

BCU/UKCC LEVEL 3 GENERIC CORE TRAINING

5 DAYS

This is a five-day training course as part of the third level certificate in coaching Paddlesports. The course is for those wishing to coach in their specialist discipline where they are likely to have responsibility for participants’ development for up to a year. It is the ideal level of award for those people in charge of a club or centre which delivers regular paddlesport sessions. This is a generic course and will cover all the elements of the training syllabus. This includes developing personal coaching practice, designing, managing, monitoring and analysing effective coaching as part of an annual programme. The core module must be completed prior to attending the discipline specific Level 3 module.

We will also cover the 3 BCU Intermediate supporting modules needed for the BCU Level 3 discipline specific training.

PRE-REQUISITES - BCU Level 2 Training, BCU Level 3 Coach (old scheme) plus coaching processes course or BCU Level 3 Coach (old scheme) plus Level 2 Transfer course or BCU Level 5 Coach trainee £450 24-28 FEB 17-21 MAR 8-12 SEP

BCU/UKCC LEVEL 3 DISCIPLINE SPECIFIC TRAINING

2 DAYS

This two-day training course is part of the third level certificate in coaching paddlesports. The course follows on from the core training course and will cover all the elements of the discipline specific syllabi. This includes managing a safe and effective coaching environment, delivering coaching within an annual programme, developing motor skills and developing cognitive skills.

PRE-REQUISITES - BCU Level 3 Core Training Course completed in the last 2 years. BCU 4 Star Leader or BCU Level 3 Coach (old scheme) in the relevant discipline, completed the BCU Intermediate Modules.

WHITE WATER KAYAK TRAINING 18-19 JAN

8-9 MAY

14-15 JUN

SEA KAYAK TRAINING 26-27 APR

23-24 AUG

29-30 SEP

CANOE TRAINING 15-16 FEB

5-6 MAY

£325

9-10 AUG

BCU/UKCC LEVEL 3 GENERIC CORE TRAINING- REGIONAL

3 DAYS

Canoe England have teamed up with Plas y Brenin, the National Mountain Sports centre, to jointly deliver a programme of BCU (UKCC) Level 3 training and assessment courses across England.

This partnership arrangement offers coaches the opportunity to train as a BCU (UKCC) Level 3 Coach closer to home. As a Sport England funded facility Plas y Brenin, National Mountain Sports Centre is the ideal partner to coordinate the delivery of this programme on Canoe England's behalf and maximise the funding support provided to both organisations. Dates for regional discipline specific courses will be available on our website.

NORTH

DATES WILL BE AVAILABLE ON OUR WEBSITE

CENTRAL 7-9 FEB

5-7 SEP

10-12 NOV

SOUTH

£360

12-14 MAY

BCU/UKCC LEVEL 3 DISCIPLINE SPECIFIC ASSESSMENT

1 DAY

This is a one-day assessment course and the final part of the Level 3 Coach Award.

PRE-REQUISITES - BCU Level 3 Discipline Specific training completed in the last 2 years, a valid first aid certificate, completed assessment tasks.

WHITE WATER KAYAK ASSESSMENT 25 JAN

8 MAY

27 OCT

8 NOV

SEA KAYAK ASSESSMENT 10 MAY

RESISDENTIAL NON-RES

CANOE ASSESSMENT 26 JAN

9 MAY

8 NOV

£250 £220

BCU INTERMEDIATE MODULE IN COACHING THE MIND

1 DAY

This module allows the coach to see beyond the obvious physical and technical challenges into the all important mental skills. From arousal management and mental rehearsal to tactical performance, you’ll learn how to adapt your coaching to suit individual psychological and motivational needs.

RESISDENTIAL NON-RES PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - appropriate for level 2 and 3 coaches.

10 JAN

14 MAR

5 DEC

BCU INTERMEDIATE MODULES IN OPTIMISING PERFORMANCE PARTS 1 & 2

£70

£40

2 DAYS

Three days of essential classroom and gym based coaching on fitness, energy systems, training methodology, recovery methods, nutrition and hydration.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - appropriate for level 2 and 3 coaches. £290 11-12 JAN 15-16 MAR 6-7 DEC

56

FAMILY ADVENTURES

Why not spend a little ‘adventure time’ together as a family? On each of these family holidays you will join forces with other families to have a go at a range of excting outdoor activities. Whether you choose to climb, walk, paddle or combine a range of exciting activities on one of our adventure sports holidays you’ll have great fun and learn loads of new skills.

Whatever activity you choose for your family you are sure to have a great time because aside from expertise and experience in teaching outdoor skills, we understand you are on holiday. Comfortable beds, en-suite rooms, hot showers, a choice of excellent food and a well stocked bar all help to make sure you enjoy the complete experience at Plas y Brenin. Because we believe that learning can be fun and that learning as a family should be even more enjoyable.

DISCOVER ADVENTURE SPORTS FOR FAMILIES

2 DAYS

If you've never tried any of the increasingly popular adventure sports this is a perfect way to have a go. A fast moving weekend takes you on a whirlwind tour of canoeing, orienteering and climbing/abseiling. It's fast, fun and exciting and you'll always be in safe hands with some of the best outdoor instructors in Britain keeping an eye on you.

We supply all the necessary technical equipment so all you need to bring with you is enthusiasm.

Children from aged 8 and above with an adult.

CHILD ADULT PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none required £190 £165 24-25 MAY 14-15 JUN 26-27 JUL 9-10 AUG

ADVENTURE SPORTS EASTER SPECIAL FOR FAMILIES

4 DAYS

To make it easier for parents we've put together this four day whirlwind tour of adventure sports timed to fit in perfectly with the Easter weekend.

Over this action packed long weekend you'll join your kids rock climbing, abseiling, kayaking, gorge walking or sea level traversing and orienteering.Great family fun in the great out doors.

Children from aged 8 and above with an adult.

CHILD ADULT PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none required £405 £345 18-21 APR

INTRODUCTION TO ADVENTURE SPORTS FOR FAMILIES

5 DAYS

You'll need some energy to keep up with the pace on this week. During the week you will have a go at a range of adventure sports - canoeing, rock climbing, abseiling, gorge-walking, orienteering and mountain walking Children from aged 8 and above with an adult.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none required 14-18 APR

26-30 MAY

2-6 JUN

ADULT 11-15 AUG

INTRODUCTION TO KAYAKING FOR FAMILIES

£505

CHILD

£445

5 DAYS

A five-day course which will give you a thorough grounding in kayaking. You will be introduced to all the equipment and basic skills on local rivers, lakes and sea. On this course there is ample opportunity for coaching and progression in white water and sea kayaking.

Overall, a fun introduction to Kayaking for all the family.

Children from aged 8 and above with an adult.

CHILD ADULT PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none required £505 £445 14-18 APR 11-15 AUG

57

WHITE WATER SEA AND SURF FOR FAMILIES

5 DAYS

You've decided you like kayaking. Now it's time to experience racing down the face of a surf wave, bouncing down a rapid and explore stunning coastline. These five days of white water fun will give you an introduction to all the techniques you need to handle a boat in the exciting wild water of British rivers and sea. You'll also be introduced to rolling and we guarantee you'll have plenty of opportunity to develop your rolling skills!

Children from aged 8 and above with an adult.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - confident flat water paddler with the ability to manoeuvre your craft with ease.

14-18 APR 26-30 MAY 11-15 AUG

ADULT

£505

INTRODUCTION TO ROCK CLIMBING FOR FAMILIES

CHILD

£445

5 DAYS

In five days we will help you progress from never having climbed before to the possibility of leading your own climbs in a controlled and confident manner at the end of the week. All of the basic ropework, equipment selection and climbing techniques will be covered and many of North Wales’ most famous climbing areas will be explored, such as Tremadog, the Llanberis Pass and the Ogwen Valley - always under the direct supervision of our expert staff.

Children from aged 8 and above with an adult.

CHILD ADULT PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none required 14-18 APR

11-15 AUG

£580

MOUNTAIN BIKING FOR FAMILIES

£500

2 DAYS

Want to get more out of your family mountain bike rides? Let us improve your riding skills and build your confidence. Find out all about the attack position, better braking, slick gear changing, cornering, weight shift for up hills and down hills, line choice and front and rear wheel lifts. This fun weekend will take you along a mixture of the natural and man made tracks that surround Plas y Brenin, giving you a varied experience that will help you to develop all-round skills.

An ideal choice for anyone who is reasonably fit but lacks confidence riding on rocky, steep or unpredictable ground.

Children from aged 8 and above with an adult.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - you should have your own bike and kit.

CHILD ADULT You will have completed a few rides already and be able to riding for 4-5 hours 24-25 MAY

£190

9-10 AUG

£165

PARENTS WHO ARE OUTDOOR INSTRUCTORS NOT THE Other WAY AROUND

Our staff understand children. Many of them are parents themselves and love nothing more than sharing their passions for the great outdoors with their own kids. What's more, they understand parents too. Which means they’ll go out of their way to make sure you enjoy yourselves as individuals as well as a family.

Paul Warnock, Plas y Brenin Instructor, British Cycling Mountain Bike Tutor and British Mountain Guide says: “The secret to sharing great adventures with the kids is to make sure it is fun. It is all about giving kids the opportunities to try new experiences, and to choose what they like. The scale of the adventure is really important, as it has to be achievable, and all the better if you can stop before they have had enough! Hopefully they will be inspired for more, and pick up all sorts of great skills for life - as well as sharing some great quality time as a family"

58

SUMMER CAMPS

ACTIVE HOLIDAYS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE AGED AGED 12-17YRS 12-17YRS

Our kids summer camps are more than a little different from most. Top class coaching from world class athletes, state of the art equipment, great food and hotel-standard en-suite rooms all combine to make up an adventure experience that’s second to none. An experience that you will never forget.

All our courses and holidays focus on providing maximum enjoyment whilst developing your outdoor skills, with each of our highly qualified instructors and coaches a true enthusiast, keen to pass on their skills as well as their unique approach to the outdoors.

Once again we’re running a range of skills courses and holidays for young people taking up the entire Plas y Brenin building. So you will be surrounded by people of your own age with similar interests. In addition to instruction and coaching, you’ll be looked after at all times with male and female members of staff always close at hand. In addition to the daily activities we also offer fun sessions, games and competitions that can be enjoyed by all in the evening include climbing, kayaking, orienteering, low ropes and raft building.

INTRODUCTION TO KAYAKING SUMMER CAMP

5 DAYS

A five-day course which will give you a thorough grounding in kayaking. You will be introduced to all the equipment and basic skills on local rivers, lakes and sea. On this course there is ample opportunity for coaching and progression in white water and sea kayaking.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none required. £485 28 JUL-1 AUG 4-8 AUG

WHITE WATER SEA AND SURF SUMMER CAMP

5 DAYS

You've decided you like kayaking. Now it's time to experience racing down the face of a surf wave, bouncing down a rapid and running a tidal race. These five days of white water fun will give you an introduction to all the techniques you need to handle a boat in the exciting wild water of British rivers and sea. You'll also be introduced to Eskimo rolling and we guarantee you'll have plenty of opportunity to develop your cold water roll!

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - confident flat water paddler with the ability to manoeuvre your craft with ease.

28 JUL-1 AUG

4-8 AUG

WHITE WATER KAYAKING DEVELOPMENT SUMMER CAMP

£495

5 DAYS

River Running with Attitude! Join our enthusiastic coaches as they help you to combine the thrills and spills of river running with the more exciting elements of freestyle, throwing in a generous helping of boofs ‘n’ drops along the way.

Over these five fast-moving days you’ll develop your white water skills, improve your river reading and learn to throw in a few new moves on a wave. But most of all, you’ll learn how to do it all in style, blending strokes, moves and tricks together with fluidity and grace, using the whole river. This is a chance to learn how to enjoy running rivers from a completely different perspective and a week that’s guaranteed to leave you grinning from ear to ear.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - competent grade II paddler with experience of grade III and a reliable moving water roll.

28 JUL-1 AUG

4-8 AUG

MOUNTAIN ADVENTURE SUMMER CAMP

£495

5 DAYS

A five-day holiday including some of the most exciting activities Britain’s mountains can provide. The week runs on a flexible schedule allowing us to make the most of the weather and ensure that you have as much fun as possible experiencing the following activities.

Bouldering and rock climbing (both indoor and outdoor), orienteering, learn to use a map and compass, canoeing and kayaking, mountain walking, gorge walking and learn to build and paddle your own raft.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none required.

28 JUL-1 AUG

59

4-8 AUG

£495

MOUNTAIN BIKE SKILLS SUMMER CAMP

5 DAYS

During this week you’ll get to grips with the key skills involved in technical riding including step downs, drop offs, manual front wheel lifts, bunny hops, technical climbing and descending as well as many other relevant areas. You’ll also spend time looking at the most common areas of maintenance, including setting up gears, changing cables, problems with steering and brake repair and maintenance (rim, mechanical disc and hydraulic disc brakes). You will need to bring your own mountain bike (in good working order) otherwise, with two weeks notice, we can arrange suitable bike hire at an additional cost.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - a good level of fitness.

28 JUL-1 AUG

4-8 AUG

ROCK CLIMBING SUMMER CAMP

£470

5 DAYS

In five days we will help you progress from never having climbed before to climbing in a controlled and confident manner at the end of the week. All of the basic ropework, equipment selection and climbing techniques will be covered and many of North Wales’ most famous climbing areas will be explored, such as Tremadog, the Llanberis Pass and the Ogwen Valley - always under the direct supervision of our expert staff.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none required.

28 JUL-1 AUG

4-8 AUG

TOUCHING STONE SUMMER CAMP

£495

5 DAYS

Designed specifically for young people who climb regularly on an indoor wall and are not sure how to develop their skills to help them climb confidently outside. The course is structured to help you become self sufficient as quickly as possible, covering anchor selection, abseiling and self protection along with a host of other skills unique to outdoor climbing.

After this week you should leave ready to take to the outdoor crag with confidence and enthusiasm.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE – some indoor climbing experience.

28 JUL-1 AUG

4-8 AUG

ROCK IMPROVER SUMMER CAMP

£500

5 DAYS

Single pitch sport routes, multi pitch climbs and sea cliffs - we have it all here on our door step - if you’ve climbed before but want to progress to multi-pitch climbs this is the ideal way to get the experience. Over five days you will progress through ropework, belaying, simple rescues and stance management. Whilst exploring the crags of Snowdonia, our expert instructors will coach you on climbing technique, runner placements and ropework skills. You’re sure to have an exciting and enjoyable week.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - must be a proficient second and have an understanding of the principles of leading.

28 JUL-1 AUG

4-8 AUG

PERFORMANCE CLIMBING SUMMER CAMP

£520

5 DAYS

If you’re an established young climber and you’d like to get more out of your climbing, this course could be the missing ingredient! Whether you’d like to improve your ropework or concentrate on your physical performance we’ll move you on. This course is designed to enhance your technique, with our experienced coaches helping you to discover new skills that in time will allow you to climb harder, longer and safer.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - confident climber or attended a Rock Improvers course.

28 JUL-1 AUG

4-8 AUG

£535

PETE CATTERALL, HEAD OF PADDLESPORT AT PLAS Y BRENIN AND FORMER TEAM GB COACH Our Young Persons Summer Camps attract all kinds of kids. From complete beginners to high level performers. Whatever their level of experience, they can expect the same excellent coaching from our team who all take pride in bringing out the absolute best in their students.

We’re always on the look out for real talent too.

Take Islay (pictured right), she came along on a summer camp and we could see straight away that she was special. With some coaching and advice, Islay left with a clear development plan and one goal - to compete for her country. Twelve months later Islay represented Team GB in the European and World Freestyle Championships.

60

THE THE DUKE DUKE OF OF EDINBURGH’S EDINBURGH’S AWARD AWARD

If you're looking for a high quality experience for your DofE group, the National Mountain Centre is the obvious choice.

Our staff are amongst the most experienced and best qualified in the outdoor world. They love the outdoors and their enthusiasm is truly inspirational. On top of that we have an amazing location, hotel standard accommodation, unrivaled facilities and state-of-the-art equipment.

Add to that our personalised and flexible approach an you have an unbeatable package, ideal for anyone searching for the highest standard of adventure experience.

Plas y Brenin and the Mountain Training Trust have been supporting the Duke of Edinburgh's Award in a variety of ways over the past fifteen years. As well as being an approved DofE Activity Centre we also manage the Expedition Assessment Service for Snowdonia and the surrounding areas, on behalf of DofE Wales.

Aside from that, we train and assess countless DofE leaders during the course of each year across our vast range of mountaineering, canoeing and mountain biking leadership courses.

All of that puts us in a great position to help you plan and run your residential or expedition, making sure it inspires your group to go further and do more in the outdoors.

We have considerable experience (and staff who are very experienced) at organising gold and silver award expeditions and venture elements. We are happy to discuss the needs of your group for training, supervision or assessment. We can provide all the equipment necessary.

Expeditions on foot, water or wheels, over hills, mountain, rivers, lake or sea, whatever you need, we can help - at a price that suits you and at a level that suits your group's experience and ability perfectly. So go on, give us a call and choose the best for your school or group.

CALL US TO DISCUSS YOUR PLANS NOW ON 01690 720214 OR E-MAIL INFO@PYB.CO.UK

SUBSIDSED LEADERSHIP COURSES FOR DOFE LEADERS Throughout the year we offer substantial discounts on range of leadership, coaching and first aid courses for DofE leaders. For details visit our website www.pyb.co.uk/dofe.

We also administer the Future Leaders Fund and the Millenium Stadium Trust fund through which DofE volunteers can access funding.

ALL OUR 5-DAY COURSES COUNT FOR YOUR GOLD RESIDENTIAL Further opportunities to complete your Gold Residential Project can be found throughout this brochure. Don’t forget, any of our five day courses will qualify as your Gold Residential. With such a wide range of courses from canoeing, climbing, mountain walking or a multi-activity course, there is something for everyone. Just remember to bring your eDofE number for your instructor.

GOLD RESIDENTIAL PROJECT

5 DAYS

Complete your Gold Residential Project at Plas y Brenin. Located in Snowdonia, this five-day Gold Residential will involve exciting activities ranging from climbing, canoeing, mountain scrambles and gorge walks. Our experienced and qualified instructors will make this Gold Residential an experience to remember. This Gold Residential is all inclusive and the cost includes instruction, equipment, food and accommodation in Bryn Engan Cottage.

28 JUL - 1 AUG

4-8 AUG

£400

HELEN BARNARD - DOFE COORDINATOR AT PYB & AUTHOR

Helen helped to write Mountain Training’s ‘International Mountain Trekking’, the official hanbook for Mountain Training’s International Mountain Leader Award scheme. Helen has trekked and climbed extensively around the world including high mountain peaks in Africa, South America and The European Alps.

61

“After 10 days climbing peaks of 5000m plus in the quiet and remote mountain range of the Cordon del Plata in Argentina, it was time to head to Aconcagua. Cerro Aconcagua 6959m is the highest peak in the Andes and South America. Heading to the quiet side of the mountain, our 3 day walk to Plaza Argentina base camp rising to 4200m, took us through some scenic valleys where lizards scuttled, condors soared and guanacos roamed the hill sides. Feeling fit and acclimatised to the altitude and our kit and food stashed at the high camps, we set off from base camp to move up the mountain. Resting at one of the high camps, melting snow for drinks our luck ran out. The clear skies and sun gave way to clouds, the winds picked up and the air pressure plummeted. It seemed like in seconds the weather had changed and blizzard conditions prevailed. Beaten by the weather the desire to continue battled against the desire to retreat. After 18 days on the mountain, we turned back.

Exhausted by the effort and the mental energy needed to motivate ourselves towards the summit, we accepted defeat. For the following 3 days no one attempted the summit as the high winds continued.

Mendoza, good food and some fine Malbec wine soon put our adventure back in perspective.”

SUPERIOR SCHOOL EXPERIENCES

If you want the very best residential activity experience for your pupils, there’s no better choice than the National Mountain Centre.

For the best possible residential visit you can stay in our main house where up to seventy guests can enjoy comfortable, modern, twin en-suite bedrooms. A far cry form the dormitory accommodation many expect from outdoor centres.

During their stay with us, your pupils will be coached and inspired by world-class mountain athletes with a level of knowledge and experience unrivalled by any other outdoor centre. They will enjoy using facilities and equipment that is always modern and well maintained, whatever outdoor activities you choose.

We can arrange a wide range of mountain sports or activities you like according to your schools and pupils needs and interests and our depth of knowledge combined with wide range of staff, facilities and equipment mean we are always flexible enough to change the plan if the weather or other circumstances get in the way.

Your pupils will enjoy excellent food, served in hearty portions with any individual dietary requirements carefully catered for and wherever they turn they will find friendly, helpful and encouraging staff, always eager to make sure their guests enjoy themselves and that they go on to enjoy a lifetime of adventure.

As the link teacher making the booking you’ll be entitled to a free weekend’s training on any course at Plas y Brenin, which can be taken any time up to 12 months after your school visit.

If you’re interested in bringing your school to the National Mountain Centre to enjoy a better class of residential adventure outdoors the cost is easy to work out.

PER CHILD/PER DAY

COST INC. INSTRUCTION, IN-COURSE TRANSPORT, MEALS AND ACCOMMODATION FROM

ÂŁ80

Easier, Safer, Drier Soggy Socks?

Breathe Easy!

Dirt and soaked-in water stops sweat escaping so it stays in your boots

is an effective, easy to use cleaner designed for outdoor footwear rbo n Č‹

ca

Water

Ze

add safe, high performance

ČŒ

sed Ba

Nikwax waterproofers

ro l uor o

At Nikwax we do all we can to minimise our impact on the environment and people’s health. ‡ ƒ”‡ –Š‡ ‘Â?Ž› ‡•–ƒ„Ž‹•Š‡† ‘—–†‘‘” ƒˆ–‡”…ƒ”‡ …‘Â?’ƒÂ?› –‘ Šƒ˜‡ ƒ ƒ–‡” ÂƒÂ•Â‡Â†ÇĄ Â?‘Â?ÇŚĆŞ ƒÂ?Â?ƒ„Ž‡ ƒÂ?† ĆŞ —‘”‘…ƒ”„‘Â? Č‹ ČŒ ˆ”‡‡ ”ƒÂ?‰‡Ǥ ‡ Šƒ˜‡ ƒŽ™ƒ›• ƒ˜‘‹†‡† —•‹Â?‰ • ĥ ™‡ „‡Ž‹‡˜‡ –Š‡› ƒ”‡ ƒ risk to consumer health and the environment. To learn more visit www.nikwax.com/environment

wh e ww n y

w. ou p ni la kw y

ax our .co W .u eb k/ Q py ui b z

Nikwax Footwear Cleaning Gel

Clean, waterproofed boots allow water vapour to escape and keep your feet dry

ADVENTURE ADVENTURE DAYS DAYS FOR FOR GROUPS GROUPS

If you want to bring a group of friends, pupils or students to the Welsh hills for a taste of the outdoors, you’ll find our blend of knowledge, expertise and enthusiasm produces an experience that’s unrivalled in the outdoor world. We offer two categories of group sessions, one for small groups and one for large groups.

GROUPS OF LESS THAN THIRTY If there are less than thirty people in your party you can split the day (9.45-5.00) into two or three sessions of any of the activities, or if you’d like more in-depth instruction, you can dedicate the entire day to one activity.

The price listed is an overall cost covering equipment and instruction for a maximum of ten people. For example, ten people can canoe all day at a total cost of £300 (£30 each) but if there are only five people in your group it will still cost £300 (£60 each), so it’s in your interest to fill the places.

£300 PER GROUP OF 10

GROUPS OF MORE THAN THIRTY If there are more than thirty people in your party it’s easy to figure out how much it will cost. For groups larger than thirty you simply pay £30 per head.

For example if thirty-six people enjoy a range of three activities during a day you only pay a total of £1080.

Provided we know your selection well in advance you can pick any three of the activities listed and you’ll receive a twohour session on each one during the course of a day (9.45-5.00). Or, if you’d rather you can choose two activities or, as in the small groups programme, spend a day on one activity.

£30 PER PERSON

ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES TO CHOOSE FROM If you haven’t tried any of the increasingly popular ‘adventure sports’ this is the perfect way to have a go. Choose from this range of exciting activities – we’ll provide all the necessary technical equipment and instruction. All you need to bring is enthusiasm. You can split the day (9.45-5.00) into two or three sessions of any of the activities below, or you can dedicate the day to in-depth instruction in one activity.

CANOEING Our lake provides groups with the perfect environment to develop the skills involved in kayaking or canoeing. Games help with the learning process and add to the fun.

ORIENTEERING After being taught how to read and follow a map, groups are split into small teams, which compete to find control points located within the boundaries of the centre.

INDOOR CLIMBING A challenging activity that takes place on our state-of-the-art indoor climbing walls. Groups are taught the basic skills and techniques involved in this exciting sport.

OUTDOOR CLIMBING (TWO SESSION DAY OR FULL DAY ONLY) Enjoy the challenge of climbing on real rock at our local crag. This is available when splitting the day into two sessions or if you choose a full day of climbing.

ABSEILING If you’ve got a head for heights, this exhilarating activity will leave you with a real sense of achievement. Groups are taught the basic skills and techniques to safely descend our purpose built abseiling tower.

MOUNTAIN WALK (FULL DAY ONLY) A guided walk to the summit of Moel Siabod. During the walk groups will have the opportunity to learn how to read a map and individuals or pairs are encouraged to lead the group.

RAFT BUILDING Groups are set the task of imaginatively designing and building a raft from a selection of basic equipment. When the raft is finished the group will use it to cross the river that flows through the grounds.

LOW ROPES On our purpose built course groups work together on problem solving tasks and activities designed to promote good teamwork. Communication plays a large part as groups discuss each problem and come up with a solution.

63

ADVENTURE ADVENTURE PACKAGES PACKAGES FOR FOR GROUPS GROUPS

To guarantee great value for visiting schools, colleges, youth clubs, voluntary organisations or simply a group of friends or workmates, we’ve cooked up these tasty activity packages.

With an optimum group size of sixteen, our adventure packages provide unrivalled value for money along with the opportunity to arrange everything you need for your trip in one go.

You can create your own tailormade programme, choosing from a range of adventure activities, even adding the option of meals in our dining room if you wish. And with Plas y Brenin’s high standards applied to every detail from the moment of booking right up to minute you leave, it’s a guaranteed way to take the headache out of organising an activity break.

AFFORDABLE ACCOMMODATION We have two dedicated self-contained bunkhouse-style facilities available for exclusive use by your group which can be booked separately or together if required.

BRYN ENGAN COTTAGE Situated away from the main Plas y Brenin site Bryn Engan Cottage is a five-minute walk over the footbridge below the centre with easy access for vehicles along a forest track. The accommodation consists of two rooms sleeping two people each and two six bedded rooms making a total of sixteen places. The unit contains a well-equipped kitchen, hot showers, drying room and classroom/dining room.

MOELWYN COTTAGE Moelwyn Cottage is situated on the main Plas y Brenin site. The accommodation consists of one room sleeping ten, one room sleeping four and one two-bedded room making a total of sixteen places. It has shower and toilet facilities and a well-equipped kitchen/dining room.

COST FOR A MAXIMUM OF SIXTEEN PEOPLE

BRYN ENGAN COTTAGE MOELWYN COTTAGE

COST

ADDITIONAL NIGHT(S)

£730 £690

£250 per day/night £210 per day/night

The prices listed above are an overall cost covering a days instruction, equipment, one nights self-catering accommodation for a maximum of sixteen people.

You can add the option of an additional days instruction for as little as £30 per head IF THERE ARE LESS THAN SIXTEEN PEOPLE IN YOUR GROUP IT WILL STILL COST THE SAME, SO IT’S IN YOUR INTEREST TO FILL THE PLACES!

ADDING MEALS If cooking your own meals doesn’t suit you, we can arrange for your group to eat in our dining room. If this is possible the following price(s) should be added per person, per day.

Full Cooked Breakfast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £5.00 per person* Lunch Options Packed Lunch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £5.00 per person Soup and Sandwiches . . . . . . . . . . . . . £5.80 per person Hot Pasta and Salad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £7.00 per person Sausage, Chips and Beans . . . . . . . . . . £5.80 per person Tea and Coffee (All day) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £3.00 per person Tea and Cake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £2.00 per person Three Course Evening Meal . . . . . . . . . . . . £13.00 per person* *Only available to groups staying in our accommodation. Additional meal options available on request

FURTHER INFORMATION If you’d like to find out more about our adventure packages or you’d like to book, either visit www.pyb.co.uk or contact Lissie Smith our full time Youth Co-ordinator on 01690 720119 between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday or e-mail lissie.smith@pyb.co.uk

64

AWARDS AND BURSARIES ADDITIONAL CHARITABLE ORGANISATIONS THAT CAN HELP TO FURTHER REDUCE THE COST OF YOUR OUTDOOR TRAINING

The Mountain Training Trust has administered a number of bursaries here at Plas y Brenin for over thirteen years. The families and friends who set up the memorials in memory of loved ones have been responsible for making many opportunities available for young adults, volunteer leaders and those in financial need to access training in mountain sports.

Without such generous assistance this would not be possible. Those wishing to support the development and training of others please contact Martin Doyle at Plas y Brenin.

THE FUTURE LEADERS FUND Here at Plas y Brenin National Mountain Centre, we believe in a healthy sense of adventure, and encourage participation in a Sporting Habit for Life. The most effective way to make sure as many young people as possible across the country are getting out, getting fit and getting happy is to train the trainers. We believe in the vital role that volunteer leaders play in their local communities, and we understand that the barriers to access that all-important training are more challenging than ever.

For more details see p31 or visit www.pyb.co.uk/futureleaders.

ENHANCED LEARNING CREDITS (ELC) Plas y Brenin is an an Approved ELC Provider. The Enhanced Learning Credit Scheme is the Joint Servicies funding source available to train serving personnel in Nationally Recognised Qualifications.

Plas y Brenin’s ELCAS Provider ID is 4237 Many of our top level Mountaineering and Kayak Coaching qualification courses are recognised by ELCAS as appropriate for funding as part of the Enhanced Learning Credit Scheme.

Currently the courses listed as part of the ELC scheme are: Mountain Leader Scheme - Summer and Winter courses, International Mountain Leader Scheme - Summer and Winter courses, MIA and MIC courses and BCU Level 3 Coach courses.

KATHMANDU MEMORIAL BURSARY The Kathmandu Memorial Bursary was set up by the families of Mick and Sue Hardwick, Dave Harries and Ali Cope (all of whom worked at Plas y Brenin) following a tragic air crash in 1992.

The bursaries are awarded each year by the Trustees and part funds the applicants on National Governing Body Award courses at Plas y Brenin. Applications are invited from volunteer leaders and students. If you would like to be considered for one of these places complete the booking form at the back of the brochure, visit our website on www.pyb.co.uk and complete an application form sending both to the Kathmandu Memorial Fund at Plas y Brenin.

JAMES BROWNHILL MEMORIAL FUND This fund was set up by James’ family following his death on 1st July 2011, on the Frendo Spur in Chamonix, France.

James was an avid climber and mountaineer. His love for climbing led him to develop skills in every climbing style but it was in Alpine and Traditional climbing where he sought to improve most. His consistent passion for climbing led to involvement with his university club, an opportunity to share enthusiasm, skills and knowledge with like minded individuals.

The fund aims to encourage and foster a higher level of safety, good practice and sustainability within university climbing clubs. The fund will award volunteer leaders within the clubs with bursaries to undertake courses to consolidate and develop safe climbing practice for teaching new and inexperienced climbers in individual and group situations.

Each year bursaries will be awarded to part fund training courses run by Plas y Brenin National Mountain Centre.

Courses attracting bursaries include Mountain Leader Award, Single Pitch Award, Climbing wall award. Applications for bursaries can be made by completing an application form on the Plas y Brenin website www.pyb.co.uk/brownhill.

GODFREY JACKSON MEMORIAL AWARD Godfrey Jackson was a very keen mountaineer who had a particular love for snow, ice and winter climbing. He derived a great deal of pleasure from the climbing he did throughout the world and always had a keen interest in helping young people to climb. Godfrey was also a good friend and supporter of Plas y Brenin.

Following his death, Godfrey’s family established a trust fund which helps young people between the ages of 18 and 23 gain experience of snow and ice climbing so that they can further their mountaineering. The training is provided through Plas y Brenin.

Each year 8 places are available on our Scottish Winter Mountaineering course (see page 23). If you would like to be considered for one of these places complete the booking form at the back of the brochure and send it, together with a brief letter outling your mountaineering experience and why you would benefit from this opportunity, to the Godfrey Jackson Fund at Plas y Brenin.

JONATHAN CONVILLE MEMORIAL TRUST The Trust was set up by the family of Jonathan Conville following his death on the North Face of the Matterhorn at the age of 27. The Trust has provided several thousand subsidised training places on introductory courses in the Alps and in Scotland in winter since 1979. This valuable support to safer mountaineering is now administered and co-ordinated by the Mountain Training Trust and Plas y Brenin. The BMC and The Scottish Mountain Trust also support these places.

Details of the application process for the 100 places on the 3 day courses based in Argentiere in July and the 80 places based in the Cairngorms in January are available on the Plas y Brenin website www.pyb.co.uk/conville.

65

BUSINESSES AND ORGANISATIONS

Many of today's most successful companies incorporate outdoor training into their staff development programmes and increasingly offer an outdoor experience as a sales incentive or customer reward. Aside form running regular team building breaks, we host countless product launches, retailer training events and trade/media presentations for businesses and organisations who always build an outdoor experience in to the event.

Whatever event you are planning, whether it’s an internal team development break or something aimed to reward, educate or inspire your customers, dealers or retail staff, The National Mountain Centre can give it the ‘edge’ it needs for your business, brand or organisation to make a real connection.

When you bring your staff, retailers, media contacts or even customers to Plas y Brenin to enjoy the outdoors, you can be sure they will be guided, instructed or coached by high-level performers. Mountain althletes who have been to places and encountered situations that many would not believe - and come home to tell the tale. This high standard of staffing leads to a richer experience for your team, one that will leave a lasting impression on them.

For small groups (up to 14 people), you can stay in our detached farmhouse (see page 66), complete with it’s own kitchen, living room and AV facilities or for larger groups you may choose to stay in our main house where up to seventy guests can enjoy comfortable, modern, single or twin en-suite bedrooms. In both cases a huge step up from the accommodation you would expect from outdoor centres.

You’ll be able to make use of all the meeting rooms and AV facilities you could ever want and you’ll enjoy great food and locally brewed ale in a well-stocked bar with the best views in Wales.

Just give us a call and we’ll talk things through with you to come up with the perfect plan for your event.

PER PERSON/ PER DAY

COST INCLUDING ACTIVITY/COACHING, MEALS AND ACCOMMODATION FROM

£100 +VAT

59

66

BRYN ENGAN FARMHOUSE

If you’d like to enjoy the mountains, crags, trails, lakes and rivers of Snowdonia under your own steam, Bryn Engan Farmhouse allows you to do that in style and comfort. Just across the river from the main cenre, the farmhouse’s location means you have easy access to the best North Wales has to offer. What’s more, if you choose to stay at Bryn Engan Farmhouse you’ll be part of the unique atmosphere that makes The National Mountain Centre so special. You’ll be able to soak up that atmosphere in the bar, enjoy an evening lecture or two and for a small fee make use of our impressive facilities, including a mountain bike skills course and pump track, two indoor climbing walls, an indoor heated canoe rolling pool and our private lake and stretch of grade II rapids.

SLEEPS 14 PEOPLE

BRYN ENGAN FARMHOUSE This lovingly restored farmhouse has recently been renovated to include 13 first class single en-suite rooms, making it ideal for groups of friends, colleagues and clubs.

Set in tranquil woodland across from the centre, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the peaceful and scenic surroundings of Snowdonia. The farmhouse is situated adjacent to Bryn Engan Cottage and is a five minute walk from the main centre. The farmhouse is accessed along a secure forest track from the main road with plenty of parking outside.

With comfy beds in single en-suite rooms the farmhouse accommodates 13 or 14 as one room can be a twin.

You can cook your own meals in the well equipped, bright and modern kitchen or if you would prefer you can easily arrange to have some or all of your meals in Plas y Brenin’s dining room.

There is a spacious living room with a 42 inch flat screen TV and several comfy sofas, which can be used either for relaxing or as an informal classroom or meeting room for small business groups. There is free wireless internet access throughout.

The farmhouse has its own efficient drying room so you and your group can dry your kit easily ready for the next day.

Bryn Engan Farmhouse has everything you need to enjoy Snowdonia in comfort.

Aside from the farmhouse’s unique facilities, the location is brilliant too. Set in the heart of the Snowdonia National Park, Bryn Engan is ideally situated for hillwalking, whether you plan to enjoy a classic route or you’d just like to stride away from the beaten track. The area also boasts some of the best climbing venues in the UK from wild mountain crags to towering sea cliffs - all within easy reach. If paddling is your thing the farmhouse is in a great position for rivers, open mountain lakes and spectacular coastal waters. And if mountain biking is on your list, there are endless great rides right on your doorstep with the Marin trail nearby and a host of other single track trails, bridleways and other recognised routes all around.

If you’d rather not organise your own adventure then instruction for any of our onsite or offsite activities can be arranged through the centre.

Bryn Engan Farmhouse is not only an ideal base for those keen on adventure but offers first class accommodation for events, conferences or even team management training when combined with excellent meeting room and AV facilities available in the main centre.

With all this on offer Bryn Engan Farmhouse is the ideal base to explore Snowdonia from, whether you are walking, biking or paddling. It’s the perfect choice for any outdoor adventure holiday - at any time of the year. And if your trip isn’t all about outdoor activity, Bryn Engan Farmhouse is an excellent choice for relaxing breaks, get-togethers, business events or small conferences.

£402 PER NIGHT (£335 +VAT)

67

13 EN-SUITE BEDROOMS WELL EQUIPPED KITCHEN AV EQUIPPED LIVING ROOM WITH 42 INCH TV FREE WIRELESS CONNECTION BARBECUE / PATIO AREA EFFICIENT DRYING ROOM CLUB DISCOUNTS NO MINIMUM STAY AMPLE PARKING TEAM BUILDING/ACTIVITES AVAILABLE CATERING AVAILABLE SECURE BIKE STORAGE DISABLED BEDROOM AND BATHROOM REMOTE PEACFUL LOCATION ALL LINEN INCLUDED

20% member discount on our self catering bunkhouses or farmhouse for your group, club or team when the person making the booking is a member any of these organisations

SELF CATERED COTTAGES

Plas y Brenin provides the perfect base for exploring all the area has to offer, the fantastic mountains, crags, lakes, rivers and coastline. Our central location provides easy access whatever your plans. During your stay you’ll be able to soak up the unique atmosphere that makes The National Mountain Centre so special, whether relaxing in the bar swapping tales of adventure or whilst enjoying an evening lecture or two and for a small fee you’ll be able to make use of our impressive facilities on the main centre including a mountain bike skils course and pump track, two indoor climbing walls, an indoor heated canoe rolling pool and our private lake and stretch of grade II rapids.

SLEEPS 16 PEOPLE

BRYN ENGAN COTTAGE 2 ROOMS SLEEPING 6 PEOPLE IN BUNKS If affordable, flexible accommodation is what suits your group best, look no further. Set in it’s own grounds surrounded by dense forest, Bryn Engan Cottage is a short scenic walk from the main Plas y Brenin site providing a peacful location.

You’ll enjoy easy access by car along a secure forest track and be able to park right outside the door where there is ample space to park vehicles and trailers.

2 ROOMS SLEEPING 2 PEOPLE IN BUNKS

For groups who’d like to train in camping skills there is an ideal camping area easily supervised from the cottage.

MALE AND FEMALE SHOWERS

If a self-catering stay isn’t ideal for your group, you can easily arrange to have some or all of your meals in Plas y Brenin’s dining room. You can also arrange for instruction in any of our on or off site activities, simply call us and we’ll sort out whatever suits you best.

The cottage has its own efficient drying room so you and your group can dry your kit easily ready for the next day.

On the main Plas y Brenin site the bar and dining room have a free wireless connection and you can arrange to hire a meeting room with av facilities making this a great venue for events and conferences.

Plus we offer club discounts and there is no minimum stay.

DISABLED SHOWER AND TOILETS WELL EQUIPED KITCHEN SEPARTE DINING ROOM/CLASSROOM DRYING ROOM/PATIO AREA

£300 PER NIGHT (£250 +VAT) SLEEPS 16 PEOPLE

MOELWYN COTTAGE As our most affordable accommodation option, Moelwyn Cottage has never looked better. Situated on the main Plas y Brenin site within a picturesque courtyard, this great facility has been completely refurbished.

The on-site location makes this choice ideal for those groups who want to be right in the heart of the action, making the most of all of Plas y Brenin’s impressive facilities.

If you’d rather have some or all of your meals prepared for you, you can easily arrange to eat in Plas y Brenin’s dining room. Instruction can also be arranged for any of our on or off site activities, just give us a call to discuss your options.

We have meeting rooms and av facilities available for hire making this a great venue for events and conferences.

In the bar and dining room there is a free wireless connection.

Plus we offer club discounts and there is no minimum stay.

1 ROOM SLEEPING 10 PEOPLE IN BUNKS 1 ROOM SLEEPING 4 PEOPLE IN BUNKS 1 ROOM SLEEPING 2 PEOPLE IN BUNKS MALE AND FEMALE SHOWERS WELL EQUIPED KITCHEN/DINING ROOM PICNIC TABLES IN QUIET COURTYARD

£252 PER NIGHT (£210 +VAT)

20% member discount on our self catering bunkhouses or farmhouse for your group, club or team when the person making the booking is a member any of these organisations

68

CLIMB IT, WALK IT, PROTECT IT.

The BMC offers £10m of 3rd party liability insurance cover » we secure access to crags and mountains » we carry out crag conservation and restoration work » we offer member discounts at over 600 retailers nationwide » we’ve been the only public voice for climbers and mountaineers in England and Wales since 1944 » we have over 73,000 members, and the numbers are rising… join us.

>>

SUBSIDISED COURSES

The BMC and Plas y Brenin are working in partnership with Sport England to bring you subsidised 2-day and 5-day introductory courses in rock climbing, walking, scrambling and winter skills » many dates available throughout 2014 – check out www.thebmc.co.uk/pyb-courses for more details.

T HEBMC .CO.UK

0161 445 6111

members@thebmc.co.uk

BMC and Plas y Brenin – working together to bring you the best courses, best facilities and best instructors

WE LOVE CLUBS

We are always keen to welcome outdoor clubs at The National Mountain Centre. No matter what you need and however small your budget, we’ll go out of our way to help. So whatever you have planned, give us a call and find out what we can do to help.

To give you an idea of what’s possible, we’ve listed some of the ways we can help below.

AFFORDABLE ACCOMMODATION For clubs affiliated to any of the major National Governing Bodies we can offer a 20% discount on our bunkhousestyle accommodation units. This means you can stay at Plas y Brenin, do your own thing during the day and use the bar and other facilities in the evening. It’s easy to arrange meals too, if that fits your plans better.

GUEST LECTURES, SPEAKERS AND PRESENTATIONS If you have plans to run a lecture or presentation in order to raise funds for you club, why not host it at The National Mountain Centre. You organise the talk and we’ll help you publicise it.

Then we’ll let you keep 100% of the ticket proceeds so your club will be laughing all the way to the bank.

MEETING ROOMS We have a suite of AV equipped meeting rooms which you can arrange to use for club meetings. Just call us up and we’ll do our best to provide you with a suitable room.

PRIVATE COACHING, INSTRUCTION OR GUIDING Our coaches, instructors and guides are available for £250 per day. Depending on your choice of activity you can spread this cost between a group of up to 8 people, making it very affordable indeed. Why not call and discuss your plans?

CONFERENCES, A.G.MS AND CHRISTMAS PARTIES Many large organisations use Plas y Brenin to host major events like Annual General Meetings, Conferences and even Christmas Parties. If it suits you, you can take over the whole centre and fill it with your members, tailoring everything from food and wine to display material and video displays to meet your own requirements. Anything is possible, just call us and discuss things.

70

150mm

ALSO AVAILABLE IN

130mm

GENIUS 700 SL The totally redesigned Genius 700 is a 27.5" (650b) wheeled, 150mm full suspension Trail bike designed to handle Any Trail, Any Time. Whether you choose the 700 or 900, both models embrace the new larger wheel diameters of 27.5" and 29" to increase traction, momentum and control while offering adequate travel without geometry compromise. No matter what the trail throws at you, this bike is capable of tackling anything. Change your Wheels, Change your Mind.

ROLLING AROUND IN CANADA

CHRIS EVANS, MOUNTAIN BIKE COACH AT PLAS Y BRENIN Combining their love for sport with a passion for world travel, PYB mountain bike coaches Chris Evans and Pete Catterall, packed up their bikes and boarded a plane for British Columbia.

In his own words, this is how Chris remembers the experience.

“Whistler, the land of Bears, Moose, Cocanene beer, Maple syrup and easily the best mountain bike trails I’ve ever ridden. As it’s a ski resort logistics are really easy, we stayed in an out of season ski chalet with a garage for the bikes. From here all the trails are quite literally on the door step and if you don’t mind your everyday things being grossly overpriced, Whistler’s high street has everything you could possibly need including nice cafes, loads of outdoor shops and plenty of places to stock up on cliff bars, maple syrup and comedy moose antlers! All within a short walk from the ski lodge.

The kind of riding I’m into right now can only be described as ‘back country’ and Whistler is it’s birth place! .

All-day technically demanding cross country rides with leg burning, uneven climbs that feel as though they never end and when they finally do there’s no place to rest.

Most of Whistler’s cross country decents are steep and hard and can change from steep rock slabs to tight banked corners that weave through Whistler’s eerie forests with the odd rickety wooden structure thrown in for good measure.

Three weeks of that kind of riding will burn anyone out. That’s where the Lost Lake Trails and Whistlers Infamous bike park come in.

The Lost Lake Trails are a series of bike routes that vary in grade and can be ridden in any weather condition. This was the place for the odd hour or two blast to ride off the giant stack of pancakes. The Bikepark is about two things - speed and air time!

Whistler is a mountain biking paradise. Two chair lift rides with your bike and you’re looking at the choice of over sixty downhill trails graded from green fire roads to double black, expert-only trails.

For me, the highlight of the park had to be ‘Freight Train’ into ‘A Line’, both of which include giant jumps and drop offs, big banked corners, wall rides, wooden structures and the surreal experience of a corrugated steel tunnel with a wall ride in it.

What bike for all this I hear you ask? Pete and I both chose to be on the best ‘do-it-all-bike’ of all time, the Scott Genius 710. It’s perfect geometry and larger sized wheels meant the bike ate up the climbs but was stable and predictable on the decents. We packed them up in a soft flight cases and chucked them on the plane. No fuss, no problem. When we arrived in Whistler, we simply unzipped the bags and we were ready to go. It’s a great luxury to be on your own familiar bike, set-up exactly how you want it. That allows you to concentrate completely on enjoying the ride and the experience of riding in such a truly beautiful place.

72

OUTSTANDING FACILITIES Plas y Brenin, the National Mountain Centre has a special reputation for offering residential outdoor training courses which are informal, challenging, high quality and fun. The location of Plas y Brenin in the heart of Snowdonia with access to the high mountains and rivers combined with the facilities on site, mean that there is much more available than just the programme of training courses listed throughout the brochure.

CANOE ROLLING POOL With a hothouse atmosphere, water temperature of 27 degrees Celsius and all the kit you need, this is a great modern facility for developing confidence, paddle strokes and rolling technique. The pool is available for hire every day on an hourly basis to groups of canoeists. One person must be qualified and responsible for the party.

CLIMBING WALL & TRAINING WALL Most climbers visit Snowdonia for the quality of real rock on offer but with the fickle, unsettled weather we enjoy, it’s good to know that there is an indoor alternative so that you can keep climbing fit. At Plas y Brenin there is a state of the art indoor climbing gym with an 11 metre high climbing tower offering lead and top rope climbing, high quality bouldering problems, an on-going aggregate competition and an informal atmosphere. Instruction can also be arranged. The wall is open to individuals 360 days a year from 10am to 11pm (last entry at 9pm).

Smaller than the main climbing wall the training wall also has modern climbing surfaces and is specially designed for introducing novices to climbing, teaching about climbing and ropework. Suitable for groups of up to 15 it is available for hire each day on an hourly basis. It is perfectly suited to introducing youngsters to climbing.

ABSEIL TOWER If you’ve got a head for heights, this exhilarating activity will leave you with a real sense of achievement. Groups are taught the basic skills and techniques to safely descend our purpose built abseiling tower.

MOUNTAIN BIKE SKILLS COURSE & PUMP TRACK These are a superb facility for our mounatin bike courses and holidays, they are also available for visitors on any of our other courses to enjoy in the evening. Simply bring your bike along and register at reception.

Visiting groups and individuals can arrange to use the skils course and pump track. Contact reception for availability.

EQUIPMENT HIRE Our equipment stores is packed with the latest gear, all up to date and well maintained. We have a full range of mountaineering equipment and much of it is available for hire at good rates. Whether you need a pair of boots, ice axe, pair of crampons, or a rucksack it’s worth getting in touch to check out the cost of hiring our gear. We are just about the only place in North Wales where you can hire technical equipment. When you come on a course or holiday at Plas y Brenin equipment is provided without charge.

THE SNOWDON BAR With wireless internet access, our bar has a friendly casual atmosphere and an unrivalled view of the Snowdon Horseshoe. A great place to settle down to a drink or a bar meal after you’ve been climbing, walking, canoeing or mountain biking. The television won’t be on, the music will and there will always be someone with a tale or two to tell.

COMFORTABLE EN-SUITE BEDROOMS Now completely refurbished, all our bedrooms are en-suite, equipped with tea and coffee making facilities, and cleaned daily. From January 2014 all rooms will be equipped with a Flat Screen TV too.

EFFICIENT DRYING ROOMS Whilst you are here you will have free access to one of our secure, spacious drying rooms which you can use to dry any climbing, paddling, riding or walking kit at the end of each day, so it will be ready for action the next day.

ALL ABILITY Like many old buildings the configuration of the rooms and facilities at Plas y Brenin is not ideal if you have restricted mobility. However, we have made modifications which give wheel chair access to the ground floor and we have four bedrooms with en-suite facilities fully equipped for disabled access.

73

OUTSTANDING FACILITIES USEFUL INFORMATION HOW DO I BOOK? You can book a place on a course by filling in a booking form on our website and securely pay by credit/debit card.

Simply visit www.pyb.co.uk and follow the link to the course description.

Alternatively you can post or fax a completed booking form from the back of this brochure along with a cheque, debit/credit card details or gift voucher. If your company or school wish to pay then send your booking form along with a purchase order and we will invoice them for the cost of your course.

If you need further information don’t hesitate to pick up the phone.

Please note we will not pass your details on to a third party under any circumstances.

WHAT DO COURSES INCLUDE? All courses based at Plas y Brenin include: • Ensuite accommodation the night before your course and during your course (rooms vacated by 10am on the final day) • Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and cakes and evening meal (there is no evening meal the night you arrive or depart) • Free tea, coffee or selected hot drinks for the duration of your visit • Instruction/coaching and equipment hire • Secure boat and bike storage • Free wifi access • In course transport • Railway station pick up & drop off from Llandudno Junction Train Station (please call or email to arrange) • Parking with CCTV surveillance • Free use of climbing wall, gym, MTB skills course & rolling pool For Scottish courses and courses based away from Plas y Brenin please see the website for details.

Please note registration and fees for national governing body coaching and award schemes are NOT included.

WHEN DO I ARRIVE/DEPART? Our course dates are the actual days on the activity, so if your course is 20-24 May you should arrive on the evening of the 19 May. We aim to make rooms available from 6pm, however in order to make this possible we need your co-operation so we ask you to vacate your room by 10am on the final day of your course or holiday. Secure storage facilities, showers and toilets are all available for you to use on the departure day if you should need them, just ask at reception.

If you are likely to arrive after 10.30pm please phone reception during the evening to arrange late arrival.

An evening meal is not included on your arrival evening but our bar will be serving meals from 7-8.45pm.

After a hearty breakfast (included) your course starts at 9am with a welcome meeting by one of senior staff. If you are unable to arrive until the morning of your course please phone or email to let us know, and ensure you arrive by 9am.

Most courses based at Plas y Brenin finish around 4.30pm on the last activity day after a review with your instructor over tea and cakes. If you wish to stay the evening your course finishes please see reception to see if we have availability.

WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING/WEAR? Each course description includes a detailed kit list of what to bring on your course and equipment which is available to borrow from our equipment stores free of charge. If you have any questions please give us a call or drop us an email.

HOW OLD DO I NEED TO BE? All our skills courses (unless otherwise stated) are aimed at adults. We accept 16 and 17 year olds provided their booking form is signed by a parent or legal guardian. For most qualification courses you need to be 18 years old or above, please check with the national governing body for the minimum age requirement.

SAFETY AND FITNESS All providers of adventure activities to young people under 18 need to be licensed.

Our Adventure Activity Licensing Authority number is L10935/R0528.

As a general rule, the fitter you are the more you will get out of your course. Our winter courses are particularly demanding and consequently require higher levels of fitness. We can accommodate varying degrees of fitness within our programme but we do reserve the right to curtail participation or in (rare) extreme cases we may ask you to withdraw from activities if we feel your lack of fitness is causing excessive difficulties for you or other course members.

GIFT VOUCHERS Plas y Brenin Gift Vouchers make an ideal christmas or birthday present. They can be purchased for any amount over the telephone or on our website. Simply call us on 01690 720214 or go www.pyb.co.uk.

74

Booking Form

OFFICE USE ONLY

P l e a s e u s e o n e f o r m p e r p e r s o n b o o k i n g. U s e b l o c k c a p i t a l s t h r o u g h o u t .

Only use this form to book standard courses (with instruction) as advertised in the Plas y Brenin brochure.

PLEASE USE ONE FORM PER PERSON PER COURSE. If you don’t have enough forms, use a photocopy, download a form from our website (www.pyb.co.uk) or contact us for more.

Acceptance of any booking is subject to us receiving a signed and completed ‘booking form’ with payment.

Please contact us for further information.

PERSONAL DETAILS Title (Ms/Mr)

FIRST CHOICE COURSE Title

First Name

Dates

Surname Age

Date of Birth

Occupation

SECOND CHOICE COURSE (IF THE ABOVE COURSE/DATE IS UNAVAILABLE)

Address

Title Dates

FEES The balance of your course fee is due 6 weeks before the start of your course. You should send your DEPOSIT and insurance premium if required, along with this form.

Postcode TELEPHONE NUMBERS (With Codes)

The full fee for my course is

Home Work

I am paying:

£

Full Course Fee (If booking is within 6 weeks) £80.00 Deposit (£200 for courses 10 days or more)

Mobile

E-mail

Please do not send course notes - I will download them from www.pyb.co.uk

We recommend that you take out insurance including cancellation insurance. We can provide insurance, for details and prices please see our website www.pyb.co.uk or contact our bookings team on 01690 720214.

I would like to receive your regular e-mail newsletter

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUIREMENTS

Total Payment £

EITHER I enclose a CHEQUE payable to Plas y Brenin, for the appropriate amount.

MEDICAL CONDITIONS, ALLERGIES OR SIGNIFICANT DISABILITIES

OR I authorise you to charge my CREDIT/DEBIT CARD account with all amounts due, or becoming due, in respect of this booking, as they fall due under the relevant Terms and Conditions of Booking Set out on this Booking Form

OR I WISH TO SHARE A ROOM WITH (We try to meet these requests, but cannot guarantee to do so)

I enclose an authorised, official purchase order - please invoice my company directly.

(SWITCH/MAESTRO ONLY)

CARD NO.

SECUITY NUMBER (USUALLY ON BACK OF CARD)

AWARDS & PAST EXPERIENCE OF CHOSEN ACTIVITY EXPIRY DATE

Mountain Training Board registration no. (if applicable)

NAME AND TELEPHONE NUMBER OF A PERSON WE CAN CONTACT IN AN EMERGENCY

ISSUE NO/VALID FROM

Card holders signature

ADDRESS (if it differs from that given above)

POSTCODE

I have had brought to my attention the Terms and Conditions relating to this booking, in particular, those concerning cancellation.

I understand that bookings are accepted on the understanding that Plas y Brenin safety regulations are observed.

I accept that Plas y Brenin, is not under any liability whatsoever in respect of loss or damage to personal property, not caused by the negligence or default of Plas y Brenin, its suppliers, its agents and employees whilst attending the course.

I have had my attention drawn to the information on insurance cover, terms and conditions.

Participation in adventurous activities entails some risk of injury. Plas y Brenin staff are trained and appropriately qualified to run activity sessions and will at all times proceed in a manner to limit the risk of injury. However participants accept that accidents and injury may occur.

75

SIGNATURE DATE. (Signature of parent, or guardian if applicant is under 18. If you are signing for someone under eighteen please check that we receive details of any medical or other conditions which may be relevant.

If you are unsure about a conditions’ relevance, please call and ask.

Any disclosures will be treated in the strictest confidence.)

Plas y Brenin is committed to honouring the price and terms and conditions printed in this brochure but reserves the right to make changes due to unforseen circumstances

TERMS & CONDITIONS

Please read this section carefully before filling in your booking form.

1. FEES 1.1 All brochure courses are exempt of VAT 1.2 Places can only be reserved by submitting the following: 1.2.1 • A completed booking form & non-refundable deposit of £80.00 for courses 9 days or less in duration or £200 for courses 10 days or more in duration, or; 1.2.2 • A completed booking form & a valid purchase order (see note below) 1.3 Course places cannot be provisionally booked or reserved by telephone, fax, e-mail or letter.

1.4 All balances must be paid 6 weeks prior to the commencement date of the course. If the deposit is paid by credit/debit card, the balance will be automatically debited from your card on the due date.

1.5 If a booking is made within the six-week period prior to commencement the whole fee must be submitted upon booking.

1.6 NB: An official purchase order must be issued by a recognised buying authority confirming acceptance of our terms and conditions.

1.7 An administration fee of £5.00 will be charged for bounced cheques.

2. AMENDMENTS BY THE CUSTOMER 2.1 Substitution of the original customer for another can be made provided at least 2 weeks notice is given by the substituted customer to the company and the substituting customer satisfies the requirement of the course. All substitutions must be made with the consent of the company with both the substituted and substituting customer being jointly and severally liable for the total course fee as well as an administrative cost of £25.00 per course/substitution.

2.2 A customer may apply, in writing, to change course or course dates as long as the original booking is more than 6 weeks from the date of the request. The new course must be one that appears on our website or is in the current brochure. An administrative charge of £25.00 is payable at the time of change.

2.3 Any requests to change course or course dates within the 6 week period will be dealt with under the terms and conditions relating to cancellation by the customer.

3. CANCELLATION BY THE CUSTOMER 3.1 All cancellations must be in writing and acknowledged by Plas y Brenin.

The financial cost of cancellation is as follows: 3.2 • Deposits are non-refundable 3.3 • 75% of the total course fee where cancellation takes place less that 4 weeks but more than 2 weeks before the commencement of the course; or 3.4 • 100% of the total course fee where cancellation takes place within the period of 1-14 days before the commencement date of the course; or 3.5 • 100% of the total course fee where cancellation takes place on or after the commencement date of the course.

4. CANCELLATION BY THE COMPANY 4.1 Whilst every attempt is made to ensure that courses/activities actually run, the company will notify the customer of cancellation as soon as practicable where it believes on reasonable grounds that cancellation is necessary due to dangerous and/or unsuitable conditions for the course/activity.

4.2 The company shall notify the customer of cancellation not less than five days prior to the commencement of the course where numbers as a result of either customer(s) cancellation or booked numbers have failed to reach a workable minimum.

4.3 Cancellation by the company does not affect a customer's right to a refund of travel costs that he/she may have incurred prior to the cancellation and since lost except in the circumstances set out in the clauses 4.1 and 4.2.

4.4 In the event of cancellation customers will be offered the choice of the following options: 4.4.1 • Full refund of the fee paid; or 4.4.2 • Another booking on a different date.

INSURANCE For up to date details on the range of travel and cancellation insurance options we have on offer, please visit www.pyb.co.uk

All our terms and conditions are available by visiting www.pyb.co.uk.

Alternatively, if you are unable to access these terms and conditions contact us on 01690 720214 and we will be pleased to send a copy by post.

photo: www.algieri-images.co.uk

www.facebook.com/plasybrenin www.twitter.com/plasybrenin www.google.com/+plasybrenin www.linkedin.com/company/plas-y-brenin If you’d like to be informed of recent news, latest offers and special courses at Plas y Brenin, sign up for our E-mail Newsletter on www.pyb.co.uk

www.pyb.co.uk Capel Curig Conwy LL24 OET Tel: 01690 720214 Fax: 01690 720394

Email: info@pyb.co.uk Website: www.pyb.co.uk