| The most recently established of Scotland's snowsports
areas, Nevis Range is arguably the grandest. Situated among a wealth of other cultural
activities amd plenty of winter sports, the location couldn't be better. In fact the
awe-inspiring scale of the mountains - which have drawn tourists for generations - makes
this an ideal playground for snowsports enthusiasts and a challenging terrian for
mountaineers. When skiing or boarding, Ben
Nevis, the highest mountain in Britain, fills the western horizon, while the huge
mountains of Lochaber, with their expansive slopes, add to the feeling that one is skiing
among the Gods. The sense of space and pure air is truly inspiring.
Nevis Range has a gondola, unique in Scotland, upon which you
can glide from practically sea level up to the nursery area and the picturesque Snowgoose
restaurant, a starting point for winter expeditions over the mountains - ask locally for
details of mountain guides. Even at this level it is more than a beginners playground,
with several intermediate runs coming off the slopes. And further up the mountain there
are some of the most seriously challenging runs in the country.
The modern base complex has been ingeniously designed for
easy access to anything you might want, including board and ski hire, instruction,
parking, meals or snacks and even a creche. Two new lifts have been added on the hill to
ensure more convienance for beginners. And a new chairlift was built last season in Corrie
Dubh, a fantastic snow-holding valley north-east of Aonach Mor. The wide open layout
leaves plenty of room for snowboarders and is ideal for telemark skiers.
Fort William has been a thriving town since long before
winter sports came to the area, with a large, vibrant, local culture offering every
entertainment you care to think of. Whether you are looking for museums, cinemas, sports
centres, galleries, a climbing wall or just a swimming pool, Fort William's fully-fledged
leisure industry will have it.
Mountain Bikes can be hired at any time of the year and the
40km of trails at Leanachan Forest offer waymarked routes of varying length and
difficulty. Ben Nevis and the mountain ranges surrounding it offer ideal terrain for
walking, mountaineering and ice climbing. Winter conditions add to the challenge of the
area, so make sure you have covered all safety precautions before setting off and while on
the hill. Winter survival courses take place here if you want to bruch up on navigational
skills, ice axe breaking or snow holing.
For latest snow, road and weather
conditions call Ski Hotline Scotland on 09001 654 660
For general information from the Ski Centre, call them direct on 01397 705825 |
