All you need to know

Get ready for four days of mountain adventure when the Fort William Mountain Festival kicks off in 2023.

The event, which runs from 16 to 19 February, is held in Fort William and Lochaber, the outdoor capital of the UK, and offers something for both visitors, outdoor enthusiasts and chair thrill seekers alike.

The rich program includes guided outdoor activities, inspiring performances, thought-provoking films, competitions and awards, and an interactive adventure-themed exhibit. region.

What to expect from the Fort William Mountain Festival in 2023?

A varied program awaits festival visitors throughout the day. extreme events allowing them to get out and discover the amazing landscapes of Lochaber under the guidance of local experts.

And the festival organizers take pride in partnering with a variety of specialized event providers to showcase everything the area has to offer for outdoor enthusiasts.

Activities include mindful walking, wild yoga (near Stull Falls), nature writing, wilderness swimming, cross country running, mountain biking, kayaking and of course winter walking, climbing, skiing and snowboarding.

Many of these events are free to attend, and all of them are sure to fuel a growing sense of adventure.

At night, visitors can choose from inspirational speakers and world-famous films at one of three locations in Fort William.

Experts share stories from the trails

In 2023, the organizers are teaming up with outerwear and equipment designer Patagonia to bring their world-class team to the stage.

The climbing evening will include Patagonian athlete Robbie Phillipsone of the top British climbers and adventurers based in Edinburgh.

The Tales from the Trails event will be a unique celebration of the world famous long distance trails that start and end in Fort William.

Scottish Mountaineering Press host a winter climbing forum where people can ask the experts questions on how to get the most out of their icy exploits.

There will be many other speakers and films about cycling, winter sports and paddle sports, as well as the Banff Center Mountain Festival World Tour.

The Golden Ax Film Competition Remembers the Late Rob Brown

There is also a new short film competition, The Golden Ax Award, established in memory of festival committee member Rob Brown.

An experienced climber tragically died on Ben Nevis in July 2022.

Described as a “leader” and “idea man”, Rob was also a proud and energetic filmmaker, and the new competition should be a “very special” way to remember him.

Entries are accepted from filmmakers of all stripes, and the only rule is that the film must be no longer than two minutes and must include vibrant colors, outdoor adventure, and food.

At the International Film Evening, the best works of the festival’s film competition will be presented, as well as awards will be presented.

Prestigious Scottish Awards for Excellence in Highland Culturecelebrating the achievements of inspiring people and their outstanding contribution to Scotland’s outdoor culture, is back with a long-awaited return and the winners of the adult and youth awards will be announced in early February 2023.

“Opportunities for all” with a varied program

Anna Danby, coordinator of the 2023 Fort William Mountain Festival, said: “I am honored to be part of the organization such a varied program.bringing adventurers, elite athletes, mountain professionals and locals together on the same stage.

“Everyone has the opportunity to participate, regardless of your hobbies and experience.

“We hope that we have developed a program that truly offers people from all walks of life the opportunity to come and participate.

“The main goals of the festival are to encourage everyone to be inspired, respect and protect our natural landscape, and we are confident that festival goers will leave feeling motivated to do just that.

“When I first visited the festival in 2015, I never thought that one day I would help organize it.

“Everyone has the opportunity to get involved, regardless of your hobbies and experience.”

“The people and adventures I shared on his stage shaped my own journey into the mountains, and now I can inspire others in the same way. So come and get involved, you never know where it might take you!”

Fort William Mountain Festival 2023 will be held from 16 to 19 February.