Ski Mountaineering, you see, is not as scary as it sounds. Of course, it can be if you make it! But there are many locations across Scotland where it is simply a means of escaping the hordes that are hemmed into the ski centres or, as is often the case, accessing the best snow conditions.

The skis used are very similar to regular alpine skis. The heel is free during ascents but snaps into a fixed position for descents. Avalanche transceivers and ice axes are also required - as is the ability to use them. And, as with any winter trip into the mountains, you have to be able to navigate, keep and eye on the weather and be aware of the constantly changing snow conditions. The more you find out about it, the more it seems like a real adventure!

My first experience was in Glen Feshie, which seemed a world away from the nearby Cairngorm Mountain Resort. Paul Easto, Director of Wilderness Scotland and ski mountaineering enthusiast, took me on a wonderful circuit in late March last year.

An early start saw us 'skin-up' the western flanks of the glen. I was amazed to experience the sticky skins on the bottom of my skis prevent me from slipping back to the car! But it was remarkably easy and, once into a steady rhythm, we soon progressed up the hill and onto the plateau. At the top I felt refreshed and exhilarated, as the Cairngorm plateau lay before us with not a soul to be seen.

And, as Paul pointed out to me, the best was yet to come. We toured the plateau in the sunshine then made a fun-filled descent back to the car, cutting fresh tracks all the way. Meanwhile, I imagined, snowboarders and skiers at centres around the country were waiting in queues to jostle for position on the same run again. Suddenly, the world seems like a bigger place - I¿m hooked!

Wilderness Scotland runs 3-night Ski Mountaineering trips, suitable intermediate skiers (no ski mountaineering experience necessary), with accommodation in a small 4-star hotel and all meals included. £399 per person.
See www.wildernessscotland.com