The High Atlas Mountains in North Africa are simply stunning, a long mountain range that separates the Atlantic Coast with the Sahara Desert. There are a number of 4000m peaks, the highest being Jebel Toubkal at 4167m, this whole area has a real Alpine feel to it in the winter with traditionally very good snow conditions. The High Altas are very accessible from the UK, indeed I can arrive at the foot of them quicker than travelling to parts of Scotland! The aim of this week is to refresh our winter walking skills, ascend a number of 4000m peaks, immerse ourselves in the traditional Berber and Moroccan Culture and most importantly have a fantastic experience!

As with all these trips, the weather is the determining factor and may allow us to follow our plan or force us to change. I’ve started walking in the snow from the valley with knee deep snow for most of the week and also on other occasions the snowline hasn’t started until the hut and therefore a little easier on the legs! It’s always an adventure, but the key factors are that we stay safe, enjoy the week and hopefully summit. I prefer to keep the plan very open to allow us to make decisions compatible with the conditions on the ground.

Here's a very broad outline of the 8 days...