Winter 2026 in the Cairngorms

The unpredictable nature of Scottish weather once again demonstrated its capriciousness during our winter expedition, yet the experience was undeniably enriching. A total of twelve members embarked on this journey to the Cairngorms, with ten choosing to stay at Mill Cottage in Feshiebridge. The presence of some of our newer members added a fresh enthusiasm to the group.

Heavy snowfall characterized the conditions, and it appeared that our timing was fortunate, the only exception was the northern Cairngorms, where initial avalanche risk was classified as ‘substantial’. Fortunately, conditions improved throughout the week, allowing for safer exploration.

On the first day, three teams successfully reached the Cairngorm summit amidst challenging whiteout conditions. Their climbs included notable routes such as The Fiacaill Ridge, the ascent up Beinn a Chaorainn, and a day trip to a nearby Corbett when weather deteriorated. For those seeking a more relaxed outing, Inshriach Forest provided an excellent alternative.

While winter sports remained the primary focus of the trip, the evenings were equally memorable. Gatherings around a roaring fire, sharing stories, and forging new friendships underscored the camaraderie that defines our club. The Scottish adventure of 2026 proved to be both exhilarating and enriching in every sense.