Build Your Confidence in the Mountains: Mountain Skills 1 Course (MS1) in Sneem, Co. Kerry

Ready to take your hillwalking to the next level? 

Our Mountaineering Ireland accredited Mountain Skills 1 course will equip you with the essential skills and knowledge to navigate safely and confidently in the mountains.

This two-day course, based in beautiful Sneem, Co. Kerry, will cover the MS 1 Syllabus and all the fundamentals you need to know:

• Master the Map: Learn to read maps like a pro, including grid references, contour interpretation, distance estimation and compass usage. 
• Conquer Mountain Challenges: Understand and navigate around common mountain hazards like weather, terrain, and getting lost.
• Gear Up for Success: Choose the right equipment for your adventures and understand how to use it effectively. 
• Plan Like a Pro: Develop your route planning skills, including pacing, timing, and responsible land access.
• Be Prepared for Anything: Learn basic emergency procedures to ensure a safe and enjoyable mountain experience.

Fergal Harrington is your training course provider. He is a qualified and experienced Mountain Leader, Mountain Training Association (MTA) Member and fully Garda Vetted. The course venue is Álaind Lodge B&B and Walking in Sneem, V93 AC80. See www.alaindwalkingireland.ie

 This course is perfect for:

• Walkers who want to progress beyond well-marked trails.
• Hikers seeking to build their navigation skills and confidence.
• Anyone who wants to explore the mountains safely and responsibly.

Price: €150 (includes course materials and instruction). 

A course has a maximum of six places. The course will be confirmed once two participants are booked. Each day runs from 9AM to 6PM approximately.

Once I confirm with you that the course is proceeding you will need to register your participation in this Mountain Skills course with Mountaineering Ireland. You can register at https://www.mountaineering.ie/awardreg/

Please Note: Registration is free for those under 18, but for adults it is a one-time fee of €31 that covers MS1, MS2 and the MS Assessment. 

Your €31 MS Registration Includes:

1. A digital MS training record account.

2. The official Mountain Skills Logbook.

3. Certificate on completion of your MS1.

4. MTA Timing card.

5. BMC Safety on Mountains book.

What To Wear?

• Quick-drying loose or stretchy pants.  Avoid wearing jeans and cotton tee-shirts, which can get uncomfortable when warm and very cold when wet.
• Waterproof walking boots with good grips and good laces.
• Good Walking Socks
• 100% waterproof shell type jacket.

What to Pack?

• A walking pole or better still two poles.
• Spare warm fleece type top (a couple of thin layers).
• Small backpack for food, spare clothes and other supplies.
• Hat & Gloves.
• Gaiters – keep your ankles / calves dry in wet long grass.
• Waterproof over-trousers.
• Sunscreen.
• Smartphone for contact and for fantastic photos.
• Water bottle – preferably a reusable one.

  We understand that things come up!

• Changes more than 10 days in advance: No worries! We'll happily refund 50% of your course fee.

• Changes within 10 days: Unfortunately, due to our small class size, refunds are not possible within 10 days of the course start.

• Unable to attend due to illness or  bereavement: We completely understand. In these exceptional circumstances (with a doctor's note for illness or proof of bereavement), you can transfer your booking to another available course date.

Please note: No-shows on the day of the course will not be eligible for a refund or transfer.

Mountain Skills courses will proceed once two people have booked. 

Full payment required at booking: This secures your spot and helps with planning.