Anne Arran
Expedition Leader
Anne’s adventurous life started out with her parents on Dartmoor visits and climbing Snowdon at an early age. After summiting Mont Blanc as a student, the fascination with climbing just grew and grew, leading to becoming British indoor lead climbing champion and climbing in over 20 stunning European rock and alpine regions. Coaching, outdoor and photojournalism work became part of a complementary lifestyle, along with international projects for the UIAA. Working at the British Mountaineering Council opened more doors for exploratory expeditions climbing new 5-6000m peaks and routes in the Himalaya and Pamirs, then becoming a qualified International Mountain Leader meant a chance to explore more whilst renovating an old Pyrenean farmhouse!
One of Anne’s favourite locations for an adventure is the “Freedom Trail” historic treks that cross between the French and Spanish borders in the Pyrenees mountains, where 360 is based. This incredible trek celebrates the journeys often made in times of conflict where people fled for a better life. (Check out the trek here!) but she’s also often found out snowshoeing, up Kilimanjaro, or further afield!
Interview
What was your first adventure?
Probably making the Snowdon horseshoe at the age of 7!
What has been your most memorable adventure?
Hard to say! Maybe climbing Angel Falls on the 3rd attempt. It’s the world’s highest free drop waterfall in the Venezuelan jungle, and we lived on the face for 12 nights in a suspended porter ledge on the overhanging cliff face.
Or perhaps, having my daughter Amelie – an ever-evolving adventure ?
What item of travel kit you can't do without?
A smile!
What three bits of advice would you give to people who are keen on adventures, trekking and climbing?
Yes, you can do it; prepare well and, most importantly, believe that inspired ideas = inspired ascents or journeys – the ones that you will never forget.
What is the best thing about your job?
Seeing the people I am leading smiling, being strong and getting there. Designing historic adventures and seeing the possibility to climb some higher peaks… soon…!