I think doing something different, taking you out of your comfort zone and normal home comforts and being challenged a bit is great.

It was thoughtful thinking of those who did the trip without all the comforts we had like waterproof trousers and food etc… escapism, time to think, time to get to know people, time to get to know yourself and how you adapt to situations. It was very varied, each day was different, it was great being outside in nature away from everything!

I just wanted to say a massive thank you to everybody at 360 for a totally awesome expedition skills course last week. The week did exactly what it said on the tin plus much more, from the discussions around weather and avalanches, to self arresting, rock climbing and abseiling and then putting it all together to summit the Maladeta on a gorgeous day everything was great! The instruction from Rolfe and support from Jamie alongside a great team bond helped everybody learn new skills and overcome fears (abseiling for me). I feel I now have both the confidence and the tools for whatever Kang Yatse II throws at me later in the year!

I can’t thank 360  in general and Rolfe in particular enough for making this possible. I was very much the weakest link of the group in both age and experience. A less conscientious guide might have suggested that I did not complete the full summit but Rolfe was determined that I should. Mattias was also very encouraging and between them, they helped me to the top, literally step by step at some stages. A great celebration for my 70th birthday.

If you want to challenge yourself by learning new skills/techniques from reputable and dedicated mountain guides then look no further than 360! The staff at 360 are incredible and the support I received both on and off the mountain was second to none.

This was a thorough, confidence-building course – would highly recommend. I’ve returned to the UK inspired and am looking forward to using the technical skills learnt on Elbrus later this year.