Each year the XXL Hillwalking Club based in Aberdeen runs a full and varied programme of hillwalking activities. In addition, we sometimes organise camping, climbing, and mountain biking meets.
The annual programme comprised of day walks and weekend meets each month apart from a weekend in December. The day walks are chosen to be within easy range of Aberdeen, whilst the weekend meets take us to locations all over Scotland (and sometimes further afield.) On day walks the whole party normally completes the same route, which will have been publicised in advance by email. On weekend meets we normally divide up into several groups with differing objectives and levels of speed or difficulty. There is usually something to suit all tastes. Weekend accommodation is arranged in usually walkers' bunkhouses; which are mostly basic but comfortable, with showers and kitchens. We sometimes arrange group catering.
Advice can be given if required on essential personal equipment. The section has some equipment available for hire, and we also have an extensive library of maps and books. We also organise discount events at outdoor equipment shops. We encourage navigation, winter skills and first aid training, and offer a small contribution to our members if they wish to improve their skills through a course.
During the year the club will organise several social gatherings in Aberdeen, such as "the last Thursday of the month drink" and a Barbeque; and the highlight is our annual dinner at the Fife Arms Hotel at Braemar.Activities are advertised via this Web site and also via an e-mail distribution system. Paper mail is used for those members who need it, but we do find e-mail is much more efficient.
We are always pleased to welcome new members, whatever their experience. Membership currently costs £20 for a full year, which runs from March till February and Membership for half a year is £10, which runs from March till August. Application forms and further information are available from our Chairperson Margriet Koers, email address Chairman@xxl.org.uk).
Finally, a word on liability. Our committee members are volunteers; not mountain guides or instructors; and they cannot accept responsibility for other peoples' safety. As a club member you should be aware of the risks involved in mountain activities, and should take responsibility for your own actions and plan your activities accordingly. Children should remain under parental supervision.
We look forward to seeing you on the hills.