We climbed the Cuillin Traverse. Our guide Iain Murray was a friendly experienced hand, who lead us safely through a... read moreWe climbed the Cuillin Traverse. Our guide Iain Murray was a friendly experienced hand, who lead us safely through a fantastic experience. Steve Holmes prepared us perfectly for the expedition, providing advice and guidance before we set off. Highly recommended. read less

Synergy guides guided my friends and I up Sgurr Dearg to climb the Inaccessible Pinnacle and were absolutely fantastic. Steve... read moreSynergy guides guided my friends and I up Sgurr Dearg to climb the Inaccessible Pinnacle and were absolutely fantastic. Steve and Casper were so relaxed with us all and really helped us enjoy our day out. They explained all parts of what we needed to do and I felt safe the whole time on the trip without ever feeling worried, as they were so encouraging and reassuring. Highly recommend and will definitely use again for the other Munros I still need to tackle in Skye! read less

This was my first adventure with Steve. He was absolutely amazing start to finish. I was mainly learning to lead... read moreThis was my first adventure with Steve. He was absolutely amazing start to finish. I was mainly learning to lead trad climbing with some other useful climbing techniques and tips thrown in. He was very patient and was by my side the entire route while leading, answering questions and suggesting places to place gear. Look forward to the next adventure. Thanks Steve. read less

Trekking in Nepal The trek to Lunag Base Camp in a remote corner of the Khumbu set new aspirations for me. I would... read moreThe trek to Lunag Base Camp in a remote corner of the Khumbu set new aspirations for me. I would do it again in a heartbeat; this is the stuff I live for! Thank you for keeping us safe and to the mountains and limitless adventure. read less

Just completed the Cuillin ridge over two days (& one nights bad bivvy sleep!) with Andy and Casper, with my... read moreJust completed the Cuillin ridge over two days (& one nights bad bivvy sleep!) with Andy and Casper, with my brother in law and our two seventeen year old boys (now men after that). As a familiar visitor to the ‘easy, hillwalking bits’ of the Cuillins, I admit to having underestimated the true mountaineering nature of the full ridge, which needs full respect. Steve prep’d us well (no nonsense, thanks!), Andy and Casper were fabulous and importantly risk assessed superbly, guided confidently and utterly professionally, and were also great company. Synergy are top notch, and I advise you to not cut corners up on those crags! read less

Outstanding day on the Cuillin ridge with Tom, who was very professional, friendly and instructive. We could not have done... read moreOutstanding day on the Cuillin ridge with Tom, who was very professional, friendly and instructive. We could not have done anything close to the trip we did with Tom on our own! Learned a ton of new things and picked up some really good tips, including the "lazy mountaineer" concept of setting a slow, steady but continuous pace. The climbing gear provided was excellent and Tom's knowledge of the ridge was very good. Excellent comms through the whole booking process with Steve, who squeezed us in at short notice. We'll definitely be using Synergy Guides on our next trip to Skye. read less

Had an absolutely incredible time climbing Tower Ridge with Synergy Guides. Steve is an extremely knowledgeable guide and a truly... read moreHad an absolutely incredible time climbing Tower Ridge with Synergy Guides. Steve is an extremely knowledgeable guide and a truly accomplished climber. Tower Ridge itself was a stunning and fun route on the iconic Ben Nevis. Steve made it easy to achieve a real adventure in Scotland just a day after arriving from the U.S. without needing to bring any gear. I'd absolutely recommend Synergy if you're interested in getting into the mountains in Scotland and I look forward to some more climbing with Steve and Synergy in the future! read less

Steve was very accommodating to provide mountain guiding to suit our request to climb the Inn Pinn. He took into... read moreSteve was very accommodating to provide mountain guiding to suit our request to climb the Inn Pinn. He took into account the weather conditions and as a result we rearranged the climb (fortunately he was still available later in the week). He was very calm and reassuring and didn’t make us feel under pressure at any time. We had a really enjoyable day in his company and would highly recommend his services. read less

Steve took us up Inn Pinn in Skye last week. Even though it's more technical than we are used to... read moreSteve took us up Inn Pinn in Skye last week. Even though it's more technical than we are used to and I am scared of heights, he made us feel at ease. He seems very knowledgable and was good company on the long walk. read less

I booked Steve to guide me on some walking / scrambling in the Cuillins and couldn't have asked for a... read moreI booked Steve to guide me on some walking / scrambling in the Cuillins and couldn't have asked for a better guide. I would thoroughly recommend him from anything for an introduction to scrambling to completion of the full Cuillin Traverse. He is extremely competent, very experienced and great company. An awesome couple of days 🙂 read less

Had an absolutely incredible time climbing Tower Ridge with Synergy Guides. Steve is an extremely knowledgeable guide and a truly... read moreHad an absolutely incredible time climbing Tower Ridge with Synergy Guides. Steve is an extremely knowledgeable guide and a truly accomplished climber. Tower Ridge itself was a stunning and fun route on the iconic Ben Nevis. Steve made it easy to achieve a real adventure in Scotland just a day after arriving from the U.S. without needing to bring any gear. I'd absolutely recommend Synergy if you're interested in getting into the mountains in Scotland and I look forward to some more climbing with Steve and Synergy in the future! read less

We completed the Cuillins with Steve, and had an amazing time. He is a great friendly guide, and knows... read moreWe completed the Cuillins with Steve, and had an amazing time. He is a great friendly guide, and knows the mountains and his craft so well, that we felt really comfortable up in the mountains. I'd definitely book further climbing days with Synergy, and cannot recommend them highly enough. read less

Last year Steve Holmes skilfully guided me up the Inn Pinn. I was very apprehensive but found him to be... read moreLast year Steve Holmes skilfully guided me up the Inn Pinn. I was very apprehensive but found him to be a calm supportive professional who instilled in me lots of confidence. I had the most amazing day. This year I returned to Steve to scramble on Skye and do Am Bastair, Sgurr nan Gillian and Shurr nan Eag. Again, it was a fantastic weekend despite the weather.
I would highly recommend Steve for any outdoor adventure and will be returning for more challenges and fun in the future. read less

Had an awesome couple of days crossing a section of the Cullin Ridge including the Inaccessible Pinacle. Slept a night... read moreHad an awesome couple of days crossing a section of the Cullin Ridge including the Inaccessible Pinacle. Slept a night out on the hills in a bivy bag to ensure early start the next day.The guides were great company, had a wealth of experience and kept us safe throughout the trip. The weather could not have been better. A great time had by all. read less

I have been out with Steve from synergy guides a few times now and there is a reason I keep... read moreI have been out with Steve from synergy guides a few times now and there is a reason I keep going back. Steve's knowledge and experience means that you feel completely comfortable and safe for your entire journey. Steve is very patient and easy to get along with. Steve recently pushed me a little out my comfort zone which is exactly what I needed to grow and develop as a climber and I am definitely now feeling a lot more confident when it comes to trad climbing thanks to him. That being said there is never any pressure to do something you don't want to and Steve always takes the aspirations of the individuals/groups on board to ensure he provides you with the best experience possible and help you to reach your goals or just have fun!! I will definitely be using synergy guides again in the future. read less

Highly recommended. Five days being guided through the Cuillin Hills, safe and secure at all times. A great experience.

If you want cracking day/days out then Steve is your man.His understanding and knowledge of the mountains is second to... read moreIf you want cracking day/days out then Steve is your man.His understanding and knowledge of the mountains is second to none and is always keen to teach many different aspects.
The tick list is there to do but Steve will introduce you to something “off piste”
and take you on that new journey!
I’ll be back for more that’s for sure, testament to his great work. read less

Yesterday 6 of us tackled the Inn Pinn on Skye with Steve and Casper from Synergy guides. They were totally... read moreYesterday 6 of us tackled the Inn Pinn on Skye with Steve and Casper from Synergy guides. They were totally brilliant and kept us in good humour the whole way. Steve roped me up the Inn Pinn, I was so terrified beforehand but he was so nice and chilled out it really kept me calm(er). Really pleased to have managed it, it was a fantastic day. Steve and Casper are a great laugh too. The Skye munros are tough, we went over another after the Inn Pinn and even with the amazing weather, I was really glad we had the guides for that too as it was tough terrain and it would have been hard to find a safe path without them. I'd really recommend hiring Synergy to guide you in the Cuillins. Thanks guys! read less

We had a cracking experience with Synergy Guides in the Cuillins in September 2020. Great and detailed communication in advance... read moreWe had a cracking experience with Synergy Guides in the Cuillins in September 2020. Great and detailed communication in advance - full of expectation management, kit advice and route options. Once our guide was allocated, we had a thorough conversation with him the day before and agreed that a full traverse of the Cuillin ridge would not be possible given the wild weather (sad face). Nonetheless, we certainly made up for it with three amazing day trips on the ridge each with their own adventures. Our guide was an incredibly reassuring professional as well as a great character full of stories from a lifetime in the mountains. Can't wait to get back to have a second go. read less

Really couldn't have hoped for a better experience and Tom was a complete legend. Feel very lucky to have had... read moreReally couldn't have hoped for a better experience and Tom was a complete legend. Feel very lucky to have had the conditions on our side also which made for the perfect day.The whole trip has been an eye opener read less

Utterly exciting, memorable, safe and faultless three days with Tom from Synergy Guides among the Black Cuillin on Skye. Also... read moreUtterly exciting, memorable, safe and faultless three days with Tom from Synergy Guides among the Black Cuillin on Skye. Also a great company to deal with for quick, clear, concise and friendly exchange of information. read less

We had a wonderful day out with Synergy Guides! Steve was a fantastic guide, and ensured we had a great... read moreWe had a wonderful day out with Synergy Guides! Steve was a fantastic guide, and ensured we had a great climb up Tower Ridge. He was knowledgable, kind, thoughtful, and cared a lot about our experience. We couldn't have asked for more. Highly recommend! read less

We booked in for a Cuillin traverse. Steve talked us through the expedition, what we'd need, and was sure to... read moreWe booked in for a Cuillin traverse. Steve talked us through the expedition, what we'd need, and was sure to answer any question we had. Our guide for the trip was excellent and very experienced. We both throughly enjoyed the traverse. Highly recommended. read less

Another great trip with Steve from Synergy Guides. The weekend was tailored to suit our ambitions of getting some Skye... read moreAnother great trip with Steve from Synergy Guides. The weekend was tailored to suit our ambitions of getting some Skye hills under our belt, including the Inn Pinn. Climbing and abseiling thrown in too which made for an excellent weekend. Would highly recommend. read less

Steve Holmes was our guide (3 hill climbers/munroists) for our attempt to summit the inaccessible pinnacle on Sgur Dearg Isle... read moreSteve Holmes was our guide (3 hill climbers/munroists) for our attempt to summit the inaccessible pinnacle on Sgur Dearg Isle of Skye. I can not commend Steve’s services enough. His professional approach and his manner in providing the required guidance and information without overloading us with technicalities instilled confidence and self belief. His mountaineering skills and knowledge of equipment and techniques were obvious. Pleasant and humorous chat all the way up and down. Truly fantastic experience all round. Many thanks to Steve. read less

I booked Steve to climb Ben Nevis by the Tower Ridge route & what a day!
I have never been challenged... read moreI booked Steve to climb Ben Nevis by the Tower Ridge route & what a day!
I have never been challenged as much as I was that day & Steve made it all possible.
It was suppose to be a climb under summer conditions but winter was clinging on & Steve found himself instructing a novice in the use of crampons & an axe whilst also guiding me along the route.
He did an impressive job & instilled confidence in myself which allowed me to climb rock in crampons, walk across icy ridges & even climb ice to reach the summit.
Steve is a friendly, calm, positive & encouraging person who is very skilled in mountain arena & I cannot rate Steve enough.

I would highly recommend him for your adventure in the mountains. read less

Well what can I say, everything it says on the tin and more!!!!Two days with Steve on the top 6... read moreWell what can I say, everything it says on the tin and more!!!!Two days with Steve on the top 6 Cuillins in really good weather. Ive had UK guides in the past, climbed with guides in South America, Asia, Africa etc but I must admit this one to one with Synergy was the best Ive experienced. Steve has the ability to quickly pick up your strenghts and weaknesses and then suggest the best routes which were just right to push the envelope without being over demanding or super scary. His knowledge of all things Skye was just vast which led to some stimulating and informative conversation from the local geology to how fast you can get between them all!!I would highly recommend to anybody with what ever experience they may or may not have!! read less

WOW!What a phenomenal experience and adventure with Steve.My cousin booked up with Synergy Guides for myself, him and a friend.... read moreWOW!What a phenomenal experience and adventure with Steve.My cousin booked up with Synergy Guides for myself, him and a friend. The 3 of us climbed Tower Ridge and the In Pinn. I had never climbed before (which I don't condone - put the preparation in!) but the confidence I took from Steve's competence really got me through it.A very calm, approachable, experienced and knowledgable person and guide.I have already recommended him to a few friends and definitely recommend him to anyone reading this. read less

I’ve been out with Steve Holmes quite a few times and would strongly recommend him as your guide. His sole... read moreI’ve been out with Steve Holmes quite a few times and would strongly recommend him as your guide. His sole aim is to give you a great day out. He is an excellent judge of where to go for the conditions, weather and your ability. On the hill, he is ever alert to your safety and also offers good coaching tips. He is such a good climber that I always feel he is completely on top of everything. Importantly, too, he is great company and full of enthusiasm, whatever the weather.
I am now in my early seventies, and prone to angina, so the qualities above are very important to me. Steve makes sure that associate guides working for Synergy meet the same standards. Through Synergy I’ve had wonderful days on winter routes at III to V in standard. read less

Great day out I have met Steve a few times for instruction courses in mountaineering. I am always impressed with his calm and... read moreI have met Steve a few times for instruction courses in mountaineering. I am always impressed with his calm and collected tuition whilst feeling very safe. Every time I have had an awesome experience learning new skills and getting out into stunning locations. Cheers Steve. read less

WOW, what a trip!!! I've had a couple of days to reflect on what was a fantastic weekend of winter... read moreWOW, what a trip!!! I've had a couple of days to reflect on what was a fantastic weekend of winter climbing with Steve. I made the journey with a good mate, both of us having similar experience and technical ability. Whilst we wanted to go climbing we had specific objectives of learning on the move and Steve didn't disappoint. I now have a bunch of new skills i can't wait to put into practice. The whole process was very professional and we had a great laugh along the way. I would have no hesitation what-so-ever in recommending Synergy Guides to climbers of any level. read less

Had a fantastic 2 days climbing with Steve. I chose to keep my booking despite the poor weather and didn’t... read moreHad a fantastic 2 days climbing with Steve. I chose to keep my booking despite the poor weather and didn’t regret it. What I was looking for was to focus more on learning skills and techniques and Steve catered the 2 days to exactly that. Anyone who is serious about learning mountaineering/climbing I highly recommend this place! read less

Another amazing day with Steve Holmes & Synergy guides.With the weather forecast not looking good we changed our plans having... read moreAnother amazing day with Steve Holmes & Synergy guides.With the weather forecast not looking good we changed our plans having originally hoped to head to Skye. But Glencoe looked better & in fact was the correct decision as although showery we had some views & even glimpses of the sun at the end of the day.We scrambled up Sron Na Lairig onto Stob Coire Sgreamhach then onto Bidean nam Bian finishing on the top Stob Coire nan Lochan. Steve Holmes was fantastic - really knowledgable, great company, and very reassuring. He even produced a ‘cake’ at the top to celebrate my 13 year old daughters 50th Munro. I can highly recommend Synergy Guides - this was my 4th outing for myself & my daughter with Steve & have already booked again for September. read less

Over the years I've had the pleasure of Steve's guidance covering most areas in the Highlands. Starting from basic scrambling,... read moreOver the years I've had the pleasure of Steve's guidance covering most areas in the Highlands. Starting from basic scrambling, then finding myself climbing more challenging routes such as Hard Severe and Very Severe in a short period of time. His professionalism and tuition techniques are outstanding, with everything explained and shown in a way that is easily taken on board. I can honestly say without Steve's get go attitude, determination and enthusiasm for his job, I would not have reached the standards I met read less

Excellent guide (Tom) highly recommend them imparted lots of mountain techniques & knowledge. Extremely knowledgeable in the Cuillin helped me... read moreExcellent guide (Tom) highly recommend them imparted lots of mountain techniques & knowledge. Extremely knowledgeable in the Cuillin helped me complete all Munro's on Skye had 3 excellent days scrambling (climbing Inn Pin) especially on Clach glad & Bla Bheinn . Excellent Thanks Tom and Steve GREAT A1111111. read less

If you want cracking day/days out then Steve is your man.His understanding and knowledge of the mountains is second to... read moreIf you want cracking day/days out then Steve is your man.His understanding and knowledge of the mountains is second to none and is always keen to teach many different aspects.The tick list is there to do but Steve will introduce you to something “off piste”and take you on that new journey!I’ll be back for more that’s for sure, testament to his great work. read less

WOW, what a trip!!! I've had a couple of days to reflect on what was a fantastic weekend of winter... read moreWOW, what a trip!!! I've had a couple of days to reflect on what was a fantastic weekend of winter climbing with Steve. I made the journey with a good mate, both of us having similar experience and technical ability. Whilst we wanted to go climbing we had specific objectives of learning on the move and Steve didn't disappoint. I now have a bunch of new skills i can't wait to put into practice. The whole process was very professional and we had a great laugh along the way. I would have no hesitation what-so-ever in recommending Synergy Guides to climbers of any level. read less

We had a fantastic day out with Steve. My husband and I are both beginners and wanted a route that... read moreWe had a fantastic day out with Steve. My husband and I are both beginners and wanted a route that was challenging but enjoyable. Steve chose a fantastic route (curved ridge) which suited our ability and he taught us lots along the way. We 100% recommend Steve! read less

We had a fantastic day out with Steve. My husband and I are both beginners and wanted a route that... read moreWe had a fantastic day out with Steve. My husband and I are both beginners and wanted a route that was challenging but enjoyable. Steve chose a fantastic route (curved ridge) which suited our ability and he taught us lots along the way.
We 100% recommend Steve! read less

Initially we booked Steve for a friend's 40th to do a climb in Skye. We enjoyed the experience so much... read moreInitially we booked Steve for a friend's 40th to do a climb in Skye. We enjoyed the experience so much it's become an annual outting.No matter what we want to do Steve will guide us through it. He has helped progress our skills and not only is the general experience great , he will take the time to teach us and build up our abilities while out there. Skills that we can use on our own.Highly recommend synergy guides! read less

What a great weekend with a great instructor. Thanks Steve! Steve went out of his way to accommodate everyone in... read moreWhat a great weekend with a great instructor. Thanks Steve! Steve went out of his way to accommodate everyone in the group and make sure their needs were met so we could all get the most out of the weekend. I for one took a great deal away from it and look forward to putting my new found skills into practice! read less

I’ve been waiting to go winter climbing on the Ben for three years. I live in Brighton and have a... read moreI’ve been waiting to go winter climbing on the Ben for three years. I live in Brighton and have a family so my trips north tend to be planned weeks in advance - irrespective of the weather.I was lucky to get a recommendation from another mountain guide to contact Steve. A gent, a scholar, a great climber and fantastic company.While I know I can climb ... on warm, south facing, picturesque Italian multi pitch routes I had never climbed in Scotland on a proper winters day.No messing, went for Gully Number 3 Buttress Direct III 4. Steve gave me the confidence - I knew I could do it.Six pitches and and piece of p***. The climbing didn’t scare me and nor did the exposure - in fact I loved it - the weather did. As I belayed Steve on the last pitch it started to hail/ spindrift. On my own, Steve 25m above me, out of sight and no verbal contact. My axes, rope and legs up to my thighs covered in deep fresh snow. Did I say I had to climb without my glasses; funnily enough I had perfect vision that day. Felt the 5 nudges in the rope, set off and stormed the last pitch.Can’t recommend Synergy and Steve enough. My best climbing day so far in 35 years. Looking forward to doing it all again; fingers crossed Green Gully next.Cheers fella!!! read less

Steve Holmes of Synergy Guides is quite a bit more than just your average mountain guide. We had had... read moreSteve Holmes of Synergy Guides is quite a bit more than just your average mountain guide. We had had an amazing winter week climbing varied, interesting and challenging ice, and mixed routes - sometimes in wild conditions! It was like climbing with a friend - who happens to be a badass climber and is also very fun to hang out with! read less

A great day on the Aaonach Eagach with Rich. Expert guiding throughout-it made what could be intimidating ridge a great... read moreA great day on the Aaonach Eagach with Rich. Expert guiding throughout-it made what could be intimidating ridge a great fun day out. Thanks! read less

Booked the Cuillin Ridge traverse with synergy guides end of May 2019, this was booked late however we were pleased... read moreBooked the Cuillin Ridge traverse with synergy guides end of May 2019, this was booked late however we were pleased Steve managed to organise this for us. Our guide, Ben, was very professional and competent, he made us feel safe at all times and was very knowledgeable. All in all a cracking coupe of days! Highly recommended ! read less