Christmas on Skye / Nollaig san Eilean Sgitheanach
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Jingle Bells, Santa smells.... oh yes, it's the fun time of the year and this year we are off to the magical Isle of Skye for a three-night weekend of merriment.
Our base for the weekend is just off the A87, so easy to get to, but within easy reach of most of Skye's attractions. We are outside the main tourist season so much of what we do will probably be exploring some of the island's natural features on two feet - not just it's hills, but also some of the world famous scenery such as the Quiraing, Fairy Glen or the fairy pools (so many fairies in this part of the world!).
This weekend is also your annual opportunity to dig out those Christmas jumpers, and any other fancy seasonal outfit you may have, to wow our guest who will be along to entertain(!) and give out the secret santa presents on Saturday evening; In years past we have seen more and more distant relatives of the Santa family come along and cause mayhem, as Santa never came back after the first Scottish Christmas event many years ago.....
Dogs: Update - All four dog spaces have been booked.
This hostel is a dog friendly hostel, there is space for four well behaved pooches to join us for the weekend. There is an additional fee of £15 that has to be paid directly to the hostel on arrival. Please note dogs are not permitted in the kitchen or dining area - these are Hostelling Scotland rules! Please message the leader to let him know you are planning to bring a dog so that the room arrangements can be planned to accomodate your four legged friend.
Photos: Taken by AMD at previous OutdoorLads events on Skye.
OUTDOORLADS FOUNDATION Fancy coming along but having a difficult time of it (for whatever reason), and/or finding it hard to justify the expense? Apply for a place on this event through the OutdoorLads Foundation! Nobody apart from staff members will know and we don't need lots of financial info from you either. To apply through the Foundation, you'll need to complete a very short form, which can be found along with more information here.
WANT TO PAY IN INSTALMENTS? You can arrange to pay in instalments if that helps. Please contact the office on support@outdoorlads.com who will help you to secure a place and set up paying in instalments. The event must be fully paid up a week before the event takes place.
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IMPORTANT! - Participation Statement
You MUST complete a Participation Statement, in addition to booking your event space before attending an OutdoorLads event. You only need to complete this Participation Statement once, not for each event you attend.
What to bring
The main activity planned for the weekend is to explore the area on two feet, good walking boots are a must along with clothing for any weather - the area often has the first snows of the winter around this time.
Boots: Hiking boots are arguably the most essential piece of kit when hiking just about anywhere. Walker’s should make sure that their boots are both waterproof and breathable, and provide good ankle support. Boots should also be in good condition.
Socks: A good comfy pair of walking socks is essential really; they keep your feet warm and drier than normal socks.
Gaiters: Gaiters attach to the bottom of walking boots and extend to just under the knee. They provide waterproofing for the bottom half of the leg. They are not essential to have but you will feel the difference if you have them when walking through muddy or boggy ground - which is almost guaranteed in Scotland.
Walking Trousers: You should have a suitable pair of trousers for walking in, jeans are not suitable as they take on water when wet and will make you cold. The same goes for jogging pants/tracksuit clothing.
Waterproof Trousers: Waterproof trousers are essential in case of wet weather. They are also good to be worn as a second layer as they can act as a windproof barrier, keeping the legs warm.
Base Layer: A breathable base layer should be chosen in order to let sweat escape from the body. This could be a cheaper sports top or you could go top of the range with a merino top, as cotton T-Shirts can become damp and uncomfortable when climbing a mountain.
Other Layers: On top of your base layer, you can have a variety of options such as a micro fleece, a fleece jacket or a rugby/sports top can sometimes be good. Having one or two additional layers gives you flexibility when the weather is changeable – the more layers, the more flexible you can be in adapting to the weather.
Waterproof Jacket: A good waterproof jacket is one of the most important pieces of kit you will require when hiking. Walkers should look for a jacket that is both waterproof and breathable in order for them to be protected from sweat. Materials such as Gore-tex are often the best choices but they can be expensive unless you shop sensibly, don’t forget your OutdoorLads discount for Full Members at Cotswold outlets.
Hat: As most heat is lost through the head a good hat is essential.
Gloves: Gloves are essential in the colder months, windproof or better still waterproof gloves are the best choice.
Rucksack: A good Rucksack that is comfortable to wear is essential, and required to carry both food and equipment. Day sacks should have a capacity of around 30 litres. As an option you could store your items in waterproof bags inside just in-case or ensure the bag has a waterproof bag to pull over the top.
Map & Compass: If you want to learn to be a leader or you just like to know where you are, then you can bring a map that covers the area. It is best to bring your map either in a map case or purchase maps which are waterproof.
Mobile Phone: If you choose to bring your phone, then you are well advised to buy a waterproof bag or if that is not possible a simple food/freezer bag will suffice.
Food & drink
Friday evening - please bring an item for the buffet
For the customary Outdoorlads buffet, please bring something to feed 1 or 2 people, but no more otherwise we will have enough food to feed all the deer on the island. Be imaginative with your offering... You could bring a selection of meats or cheese, some pasta salad, fancy bread or even do a bit of baking!
Saturday & Sunday dinner along with breakfasts, are included in the event cost.
Saturday & Sunday lunch - you will need to bring with you.
Tea & coffee is available throughout the weekend.
Should you require any last minute shopping, there is a Co-op supermarket in Broadford.