Location: Glencoe
Duration: 1 day
Client to Instructor Ratio: 2:1 Max
The North Buttress route on Buachaille Etive Mor is a hidden gem for those seeking a unique mountaineering adventure. A striking and direct route that leads you directly up one of the steepest sections of the Buachaille's impressive cliffs.
Before Your Course
Your EverydayClimbing mountain guide will be in touch one to two days before your course commences. This pre-course contact serves to introduce your guide, confirm meeting details, and provide insight into the expected weather conditions. Our guides are readily available to address any queries you may have, ensuring you're well-prepared for your upcoming adventure.
On the Day
Our adventure commences with a pleasant and scenic hike towards the iconic slopes of Buachaille Etive Mor. The North Buttress reveals itself as we approach, nestled amidst the captivating ridges and gullies that contribute to this mountain's renowned profile.
After traversing the mountain's base for a while, we begin to ascend, gradually transitioning from interesting slabs and steps to more frequent and steeper challenges. This ascent eventually leads us to a broad ledge beneath far steeper rock. Here, safety harnesses and ropes become essential, but don't worry; your guide will provide clear instructions on their use in the mountain environment.
Following a chimney system through the cliffs, we ascend rope length after rope length. The views become more spectacular and the exposure heightens, but the moves remain manageable. There are also options to avoid the most challenging sections if needed. Throughout the climb, your guide will be there to coach, instruct, and encourage you, ensuring your safety throughout your journey.
At the summit of the steep rock section, we have choices to make. We might opt for the fantastic classic scramble to reach the summit and then descend using the walker's path. Alternatively, for those seeking an adrenaline rush, we may choose to retrace our steps by completing several full-length abseils.
Whichever descent option we select, a well-maintained mountain path eventually guides us to the road and leads us back home, often with a traditional detour to the renowned Clachaig inn up the road.
Not quite what you're seeking? No problem! We specialise in organising climbing, scrambling, or mountaineering guides for any route in the Scottish Highlands or islands. From the dramatic sea-stacks to the legendary Skye Cuillin, we've got your adventure covered. Feel free to drop us a line with your specific requirements, and we'll promptly respond to your inquiry.
Dates
This course is available year-round and can be scheduled on any day that suits your plans.
Feel free to reach out with your specific requirements or contact us using the form below, and we'll promptly respond to your inquiry.
Prices
Our prices are comprehensive and cover the following:
One person - £260
Two people - £310 (£155 per person)
The North Buttress of Buachaille Etive Mor is a spectacular way to ascend one of Scotland's most beloved mountains.
With a qualified and experienced instructor leading the way, you will have the opportunity to tackle the finest and most exposed sections of this route head-on, making daring climbing moves while feeling completely secure, even hundreds of meters above the breathtaking scenery of Glencoe.
That said, the North Buttress is a full and challenging day, with few shortcuts available. Once you commit to the route, there are no easy escape routes; your only options are to continue or to descend by abseil.
Having some summer hillwalking experience is essential, and while some prior experience of scrambling at Grade 2 or above is beneficial, it is not a strict requirement. The North Buttress is an ideal route for confident beginners or experienced scramblers looking to complete a long, sustained, and highly satisfying journey on an almost perfect mountain.
Required
• 25-35l backpack
• Mountain walking boots
• Walking poles
• Water bottle or hot drink flask (1 litre)
• lunch (around 1000cals.)
• Head torch + spare batteries
• Thick socks
• Waterproof jacket and trousers
• Thin fleece or light insulated jacket
• Thick fleece or mid insulated jacket
• Warm hat
• Gloves
• Hiking trousers
• Synthetic/merino base layers
• Personal medication
• Sun lotion & midge repellent/head net
• Waterproof stuff sacks for everything
Optional
• OS map
• Waterproof map case
• Compass (Silva type 4 recommended)
• Gaiters
Provided
• Harness
• Climbing helmet
• Belay device and karabiner
• Emergency shelter (Orange bag)
To guarantee your comfort and security throughout our activities, we strongly advise all participants to come prepared with the complete equipment listed. While our activities may proceed even if participants do not have the entire kit list, please be aware that EverydayClimbing and our instructors retain the right to modify the itinerary or conclude the activity early should the absence of essential equipment pose an elevated risk to the group, exceeding acceptable safety standards.
As part of our unwavering commitment to eliminating barriers to outdoor adventures, we offer a selection of equipment available for use by anyone, with no questions asked. Your safety and enjoyment are our top priorities. Just drop us a line and let us know what you require.