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Sea Kayaking


Ice Climbing at the Ice Factor, Kinlochleven credit Gavin Newman www.ice-factor.co.uk
Adventure Activities Licensing Authority logo 4-star Activity Centre Grading

The Ice Factor


Contact details:

Leven Road, Kinlochleven, Lochaber, PH50 4SF

Tel: 01855 831100

Email: The Ice Factor

Web: The Ice Factor


The Ice Factor is the National Centre for Ice Climbing and the Regional Centre of Excellence for Rock Climbing Mountain Skills.

Situated in Scotland's premier mountain area - Lochaber - The Outdoor Capital of the UK, the Ice Factor is 6 miles from Glencoe and 20 miles from Ben Nevis. The centre is literally surrounded by mountains, which give all year round activities: Nature Trails, The West Highland Way, Munro Bagging, Ridge Scrambling, Mountain Biking, Crag Days, Classic Rock Climbs, Winter Mountaineering, Snow and Ice Climbing and Guided Expeditions.

We offer a full range of guided and instructed sessions - from a 1-hour session, to a full expedition, to climbing steep ice. Our instructors are some of the best qualified in the outdoor industry and are able to provide guiding, instruction and Single Pitch Award qualifications. There are even things to do, for people who have never been on a mountain!

We have an award winning café and Chillers Bar Bistro which offers excellent food and locally produced ales with vibrant traditional music and regular parties. Our two shops ? The Mountaineer's Store at the Ice Factor and our sister shop at Tigh Phuirt - Glencoe Guides & Gear - both stock a wide range of climbing and outdoor equipment.

What we do best:

Guided sea kayaking - trips can be from one day to five, we adapt our journeys to suit your availability, budget and requirements.

Funyaking - A unique and exciting way of discovering Scotland's rivers. Paddling down class 3 rapids, the boats combine the manoeuvrability of a kayak and the stability of a raft. The ultimate white water experience.

Travel Directions


Click anywhere on the map to open a new window containing a more detailed Google Map.

Kinlochleven is about 10 minutes drive along Loch Leven, from Glencoe Village and about 30 minutes drive from Fort William. The Ice Factor is located on the right hand side within Kinlochleven as you drive in from Glen Coe (left if you drive in from Fort William!).

For public transport information in the Lochaber area visit the Lochaber Transport Forum website.

Available packages


"Outdoor Rock and Ice". Prices start from £140 - hire your private guide to explore the best of Scotland¿s rock and ice routes.

"Dappled Water". Explore Loch Leven and the burial isles of the MacDonalds massacred in the infamous Glencoe Massacre.

Accommodation nearby (all standards), shower facilities, drying room with secure lock up for gear.

Other activities available


Winter Mountaineering  Rock Climbing  Scrambling 

Useful info


Equipment provided?

All specialist equipment provided.

What do I need to wear?

Comfortable clothing and footwear. You will be advised of any extras once you have booked.

What do I need to bring?

Please contact the centre for details.

When can I do it?

All year round.

Is there a pub nearby?

Pub nearby.


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