MEET JON
Jon is an IFMGA Mountain Guide who leads ski and climbing trips across the Alps and in Scotland. He believes mountain adventures should be both fun and rewarding, with a focus on learning and progression.
Whether guiding on snow or rock, Jon enjoys helping people grow in confidence and skills while having a great time in the hills.Qualifications
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IFMGA Mountain Guide
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BASI Level 3 ISIA
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BASI Trainer
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Winter Climbing and Mountaineering Instructor
Planning your first trip to the Alps? Or want to sharpen your mountain skills before a big objective? Our Alpine Prep Course gives you the essential skills, knowledge, and confidence you need for a successful and safe alpine adventure.
Over two intensive days in the rugged terrain of the Cairngorms, you’ll train under the expert guidance of IFMGA Mountain Guide Jon Holliday, developing practical techniques that translate directly to the demands of alpine climbing.
Whether you're aiming for a classic alpine summit or preparing for a guided trip, this course builds a solid foundation to help you move with greater safety, efficiency, and independence in the mountains.
NB: This itinerary is a sample of what we could do during the course. This is subject to change due to weather, conditions and group fitness. We will always make sure that you get the most out of your course no matter what the weather and conditions are.
Day 1: Alpine Movement & Technical Foundations
The first day focuses on building core movement and ropework skills essential for alpine routes. You’ll develop confidence moving over rough, exposed terrain and learn how to manage the rope effectively in a variety of alpine scenarios.
Skills covered:
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Movement techniques for broken and exposed alpine ground
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Personal movement security and balance techniques
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Alpine ropework: short-roping, moving together, and pitched climbing
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Constructing and using anchors in alpine terrain (rock and improvised placements)
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Efficient transitions between different types of terrain and climbing styles
The day includes discussions on alpine preparation, including route selection, equipment, and movement strategy.
Day 2: Glacier Travel, Crevasse Rescue & Alpine Strategy
The second day introduces glacier travel skills and crevasse rescue systems, alongside a focus on alpine strategy and decision-making. These skills are essential for many classic alpine routes involving glaciated terrain.
Skills covered:
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Glacier ropework: spacing, knots, and team movement
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Crevasse rescue techniques: hauling systems, escaping the system, and problem-solving
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Risk management and hazard awareness in alpine environments
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Planning and strategy: route choices, turnaround times, efficiency, and pacing
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Emergency procedures and developing a sound alpine mindset
We finish the course with a group debrief and tailored feedback to help you prepare for your alpine goals with clarity and confidence.
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This winter mountaineering course is designed for everyone, regardless of experience level. However, having some hillwalking/hiking experience beforehand can help you get the most out of the course. We’ll tailor the course to meet your individual needs and help you become a safe, confident, and independent winter mountaineer.
Good general fitness will always make the course more enjoyable and rewarding. If you’d like advice on how to prepare, please don’t hesitate to get in touch—I’ve got lots of simple and effective ways to prepare physically for winter mountaineering.
Feel free to get in touch to discuss your experience and goals—I’m always happy to help guide you to the right course!
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Ropework and movement skills for glaciated terrain and alpine ridges
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Crevasse rescue and glacier travel systems
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Route planning, navigation, and decision-making
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Alpine strategy: pacing, gear, weather, and risk management
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Personal movement coaching and efficiency tips
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Included:
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Exceptional instruction and coaching
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Access to Alex’s knowledge and advice before and after the course
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Local transport to and from your accommodation in Aviemore
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Ropes and climbing hardware
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Helmet and harness
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Guidebooks
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Maps and compass
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Emergency equipment
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Access to our private WhatsApp Community for past participants. A friendly space to share adventures, ask questions, find climbing partners, and stay connected after your course.
Not Included:
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Personal clothing
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B2/B3 Boots, C2/C3 Crampons and Technical Axes (Can be hired locally)
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Accommodation
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Food and snacks
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Transport to Aviemore before and after the course
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Travel insurance (All participants must have basic travel insurance that covers trip cancellation or curtailment, as well as their personal belongings.)
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Arriving on your course with a good level of fitness will help you get the most out of the experience, you don’t need to be an elite athlete, but working on your fitness with purpose in the lead-up will make the days more enjoyable, less tiring, and far more rewarding.
Winter climbing and mountaineering is physically demanding and often takes place in harsh, cold conditions. You’ll need good cardiovascular endurance to cope with long, strenuous approaches in snow while carrying a heavier pack. Leg strength and stability are key for moving efficiently in crampons over mixed terrain. Upper body strength and stamina, particularly in your shoulders, arms, and core will help with swinging tools, placing protection, and maintaining control on steep ground. Balance and coordination drills are also useful, as movement in winter boots is more awkward than in rock shoes.
I can help guide you towards the most effective type of training to suit your lifestyle, location, and the specific demands of your course. Don’t hesitate to ask!