FAQs
If you’ve not already found the anwer to your question, try the following list of FAQs. Failing that, please do get in touch using our Contact Page
Weight limits for Kayak and Canoe Tours
Maximum Weight – 18 Stone (114 kg)
We limit participant weight to 18st (114 kg) because from the customer’s point of view:
– there is the safety aspect – i.e. their ability to exit the kayak safely in the event of a capsize (due to the limited size of the cockpit).
– This isn’t as much of an issue for canoe trips, but still makes things more difficult
– There is then the process of getting back in the kayak or canoe. We need to take customer weight into account because our expedition leader may need to rescue the paddler, and amongst other things, this would involve pulling them out of the water, and getting them back into the kayak or canoe, typically during bumpier water conditions. So the weight limit is also put in place to help our guides during rescues.
– During canoe expeditions, it is important that the 2 people paddling together in the canoe are roughly the same weight, otherwise the boat will be out of balance from back to front. This makes it more difficult to control the boat, particularly if windy.
– Finally, from comfort and practicality perspectives, customers will need to be able to get in and out of the kayak several times each day – it is particularly important to be able to do this quickly and unaided if, for example, landing on a beach at times when there a few waves around.
A Guide to Midges in Scotland
If you’re planning to explore Scotland’s stunning landscapes this summer, it’s advised to take precautions against attracting midges and other insects. Learn where to expect them and how best to avoid getting bitten.
FAQS about Midges
What are midges?
Small two-winged flies which often from swarms or clouds. There are a number of different species of midge, some of which partly feed off nectar in addition to the blood of animals and sometimes humans.
Which type of midge lives in Scotland?
The Highland midge. It’s found throughout the British isles, northern Europe and even northern China.
Are midges like mosquitos?
No. While midges might look like mosquitos close up and suck blood, they are not mosquitos and do not spread malaria.
What do midge bites look like?
Small red dots which can develop into itchy, painful swellings and even blisters.
Are midge bites serious?
Midge bites are harmless but if the skin around the bite becomes broken it could become infected.
How do midges detect their prey? The midge locates its prey by picking up carbon dioxide exhaled into the atmosphere.
Did you know? Only the female midge bites!
Where are the midge hotspots Scotland?
The west of the Highlands, islands and parts of the Cairngorms. They are also found in Perthshire and Argyll.
At what time of day are midges most active?
At dawn or dusk. They also like damp, clammy days with overcast skies and little wind.
At what time of year are midges most common?
From May to October.
Where are midges found?
Midges love humid and damp conditions as well as shady spots. Marshlands, grasslands, forests and woodlands, the banks of rivers, ponds and lochs; all are magnets for midges.
At what time of day are midges most active?
At dawn or dusk. They also like damp, clammy days with overcast skies and little wind.
What can you do about them?
We advise buy a midge-head net and possibly buy some insect repellent too, e.g. check the Smidge website. Midges won’t generally bother you during activities, but if they are around, you may bump into them if you are standing waiting, changing clothes, or resting during an activity.
Participation in In Your Element outdoor activities carries a small risk of injury. That is unavoidable and something that all participants must accept prior to booking. Although we put a number of measures in place to protect customers, you might still twist your ankle or fall of your bike.
As a company we take a number of steps to minimise the risk of injury to our staff and customers:
- Our instructors and guides are all fully-trained in the activities they are delivering, and must undergo not only activity-specific training, but also venue-specific training.
- In Your Element has a comprehensive Safety Procedures and Risk Assessment Document, which is updated on an ongoing basis and audited externally by the activty licencing authority.
- All our instructors are first-aid trained.
- Prior to all activity sessions, participants are given a safety briefing and where required, coaching.
- If weather is looking rubbish, we’ll consider the resulting risk of continnuing with an activity session.
- We have industry-leading liability insurance should a serious injury ever occur.
In Your Element has an excellent record for safety, so you should feel assured that you are in good hands, If you do sprain your ankle or get a scrape or 2, we’ll be able to help out where required. However, the odd minor bump or bruise is often a sign that you’ve had a great time and shouldn’t be anything to worry about.
We offer a several activities and have a variety of booking terms in conditions. You will be given the opportunity to read these prior to booking, so please take the time to do that so you know what’s what.
In general though:
- You have up until 48 hours before booking to cancel a scheduled activity session that is booked online – this might be TreeZone, a canoe tour, archery or axe-throwing session.
- For private group bookings, the cut-off point for a refund is 4 weeks prior to the booking date unless we can find replacement business. There are some extenuating circumstances, but you should bear this in mind when booking.
- Multi-day Adventuers Holiday typically have a cut-off point of 6 weeks prior to the booking date.
PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU READ THE BOOKING TERMS BEFORE BOOKING!
One of the great things about Scotland is that it rains regularly. That means we don’t often have water shortages like some other countries!
So, it it’s raining all you need to do is bring a waterproof coat. It might be worth bringing a change of clothes for afterwards if your legs and feet get wet.
We’ll only cancel an activity session when we feel it will be dangerous to continue. Think flooded river gorges or swollen rivers. We might also cancel if there is thunder and lightning forecast or strong winds. If there are blizzards on the way, that sometimes causes issues too!
Safety is always out first priority, so if we think there is a risk, we will cancel and refund your booking or offer you the chance to reschedule.
So, in short…. remember your waterproof and embrace the precipitation!
Generally speaking, you won’t need any specialist clothing or equipment, but where you do, we will provide it for you.
As a rule of thumb, wear clothing suitable for outdoor activity.
- So, ideally synthetic/ sporty/ merino clothing, but not cotton/ denim as it stays wet if it gets wet. Think layers – so you can add or remove as required.
- Remember to bring waterproofs – it is Scotland afterall.
- Hats for the cold or the sun.
- Shades so you look good!
- Suitable shoes – ideally robust outdoorsy trainers or boots.
- You might want to bring a midge head net (mainly for late June, to early September). You won’t always need one of these but they can save the day sometimes.
- For water-based activities, bring a towel.
- Water bottle and a snack.
If there’s anything else you need on the day we will let you know when you book.
As a mobile activity company, In Your Element is in the enviable position of being able to offer activity experiences just about anywhere across Scotland.
Although there are a large number of scheduled activity sessions in fixed locations at fixed times we can also offer tailor-made experiences at many other venues and locations.
Our Main Activity Locations are:
- Aviemore
- Inverness & Loch Ness
- Fort William
- Loch Lomond (Including Forest Holidays Argyll & Forest Holidays Strathyre)
- Loch Tay Highland Lodges
If you’re not intending to visit one of the areas mentioned, don’t despair. As a mobile activity company, we may be able to bring an activity to a location near you.
We know of lots of venues across Scotland but can also come to your exclusive use venue or accommodation if there are suitable grounds, perhaps use a park nearby or even your garden.
If you have an event in mind and are looking for group activities, get in touch and we can advise on the what, where, and how.
Medical Conditions
We are not able to give medical advice so we recommend checking with your doctor before you book.
I live with a disability. Will I still be able to take part?”
That depends a lot on the type and severity of the disability you live with. We will always try our best to accommodate people and so far we have had an amazing variety of people who have successfully participated in many of our activities. However, if you are at all unsure, it is best to get in touch before coming along, to discuss things in more detail.
TreeZone Treetop Adventures
We have some more information for you at our Aviemore course, and if you want to come and have a look around before you book to get a clearer idea of what TreeZone entails, then pop in and we’ll happily show you around and discuss your needs.
We offer mountain bike hire for larger groups, e.g. high school or youth groups and all-adult groups, for locations other than our Aviemore bike hub.
We accept advance bookings for a minimum of 5 bikes and you have the option of collecting them yourself or we can deliver/ collect them for an additional shuttle fee. Bikes come with helmets.
Height of Rider |
Height of Rider |
Frame Size |
Frame Size |
142-158cm |
4’8 – 5’2 |
XS |
13″ |
155-168cm |
5’1 – 5’6 |
S |
15″ |
165-178cm |
5’5 – 5’10 |
M |
17″ |
175-188cm |
5’9 – 6’2 |
L |
19″ |
>185cm |
>6’1 |
XL |
21″ |
Kid’s Bikes |
Age of Child |
Bike Wheel Size |
|
115 – 130cm |
3’9 – 4’3 |
5-8 years old |
20″ wheel |
125 – 138cm |
4’1 – 4’6 |
7-11 years old |
24″ wheel |
Children |
Teens & Adults |
E-Bikes
(£100 security deposit required) |
Trailers, Tag-a-longs,
Baby Seats |
|
Half-day |
£18.00 |
£25.00 |
£55.00 |
£10.00 |
1 Day |
£25.00 |
£35.00 |
£70.00 |
£15.00 |
Extra Days |
£15.00 |
£25.00 |
£70.00 |
£10.00 |
Where is the In Your Element bike hire hub?
Situated fifteen minutes walk from Aviemore bus and railway stations and five minutes by car off the A9 Perth to Inverness road.
Click here for bus information to Aviemore
Click here for bus information to Inverdruie from Aviemore
Click here for train information
If you want to know how to find us, you can use the following map, or if you prefer to use a satnav, then just enter the following address details: In Your Element Aviemore, Rothiemurchus, Aviemore, PH22 1QH.
If you get lost, give us a call on 01479 811426
Rothiemurchus Trail Map – click here to download a Rothiemurchus Trail Map
More Routes on the Ride With GPS Website – click here
Winter Opening – Please note that the IYE Bike Hub will be closed until Saturday 28th December.
You can hire bikes and bike trailers online or in person, allowing you to explore the wonderful Rothiemurchus trails under your own pedal power.
- Pre-booked bikes can be collected between 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM.
- Afternoon-only hires should be collected at 1:30 PM. Half-day hires are 3.5 hours.
- You can not book online or by phone for same-day hire. Please call into the bike hub to see if something is still available.
- If you need to get in touch with our staff at the bike hire hub at Aviemore. Call: 01479 810 284 or email aviemore@iye.scot
- Before you book, have you read our Booking Terms & Conditions? Read them here
Equipment included
When you hire equipment from us, you will be given helmets and a puncture repair kit for every 4 bikes.
When hiring bike equipment from us you, as the customer will be subject to the following equipment hire terms:
- We recognise that cycling can be dangerous & we acknowledge the risks involved.
- We accept helmets have been offered & should we decide not to use them, then we accept full responsibility for the increased likelihood of injury.
- All children under the age of 18, on bikes, in trailers or on tag-a-longs must wear helmets.
- We will not undertake any manoeuvre, which is beyond our level of skill or that is unsuitable for the bike’s capabilities.
- We will inspect the bicycle(s) when they are handed over & will not depart from the hire depot without satisfying ourselves that they are in safe condition. Any exisiting damage should be reported to a hire attendant to prevent incurring damage repair costs.
- Any damage due to a crash or negligence is the customer’s responsibilty & will be charged for.
- Bikes must be locked when unattended. Loss or theft of the bike or accessories is the customer’s responsibilty & will be charged for.
- In Your Element reserve the right to refuse hire to a customer if it is suspected they are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Late returns will be charged at £10.00 per bike per hour or part thereof. If we are unable to return the bike(s) to the hire shop then a collection fee of £10 per bike will be charged to collect them from a roadside location within a 10 mile radius. Collection from further afield will cost an additional £2 per mile.
- Cancellations: Hire bookings will be refunded in full, only if In Your Element is notified at least 48 hours before your booking is due to start.
Helmet |
£40.00 |
Padlock |
£10.00 |
Saddlebag |
£15.00 |
Small bike pump |
£12.00 |
Tyre levers |
£3.00 |
Inner tube |
£5.00 |
Lost bike or damaged frame |
£500.00 |
- Cost of repair, loss or value will be charged.
A Guide to Midges in Scotland
If you’re planning to explore Scotland’s stunning landscapes this summer, it’s advised to take precautions against attracting midges and other insects. Learn where to expect them and how best to avoid getting bitten.
FAQS about Midges
What are midges?
Small two-winged flies which often from swarms or clouds. There are a number of different species of midge, some of which partly feed off nectar in addition to the blood of animals and sometimes humans.
Which type of midge lives in Scotland?
The Highland midge. It’s found throughout the British isles, northern Europe and even northern China.
Are midges like mosquitos?
No. While midges might look like mosquitos close up and suck blood, they are not mosquitos and do not spread malaria.
What do midge bites look like?
Small red dots which can develop into itchy, painful swellings and even blisters.
Are midge bites serious?
Midge bites are harmless but if the skin around the bite becomes broken it could become infected.
How do midges detect their prey? The midge locates its prey by picking up carbon dioxide exhaled into the atmosphere.
Did you know? Only the female midge bites!
Where are the midge hotspots Scotland?
The west of the Highlands, islands and parts of the Cairngorms. They are also found in Perthshire and Argyll.
At what time of day are midges most active?
At dawn or dusk. They also like damp, clammy days with overcast skies and little wind.
At what time of year are midges most common?
From May to October.
Where are midges found?
Midges love humid and damp conditions as well as shady spots. Marshlands, grasslands, forests and woodlands, the banks of rivers, ponds and lochs; all are magnets for midges.
At what time of day are midges most active?
At dawn or dusk. They also like damp, clammy days with overcast skies and little wind.
What can you do about them?
We advise buy a midge-head net and possibly buy some insect repellent too, e.g. check the Smidge website. Midges won’t generally bother you during activities, but if they are around, you may bump into them if you are standing waiting, changing clothes, or resting during an activity.
Be aware of ticks and Lymes Disease
When you are out and about having fun in the outdoors, there is a risk that you may pick up a tick (little insect), depending on where you are.
You need to be aware about ticks, because some of them carry Lymes Disease, which is a debilitating illness.
You can find out more about ticks and what to do if you come across one on the NHS website: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/lyme-disease/
Where can I go paddling?”
Access in Scotland
Scotland has some of the best paddling environments in the world and we have a right of responsible access to them. With our rights come responsibilities. The following link will take you to the part of the Scottish Canoe Association website, dedicated to providing you with the information needed to enjoy this sport in Scotland responsibly and with sensitivity to our environment.
Click here for a downloadable Paddler’s Access Guide 
Where do I get tides information?
Whether you’re in the sea, on the sea or near the sea, Tide Charts will quickly provide you with valuable tidal information to help you make the most of your time.
Tide Charts (https://www.tideschart.com)
Whitewater grading on UK rivers
If you go paddling on a river you will, at some point, come across some whitewater. If you’re note sure the difference between a Grade 1 rapid and a Grade 5, then follow this link to the Canoe Scotland website for more information.
UK River Grading system on Canoe Scotland website
The differences are really important to understand if you plan to undertake a river trip and don’t have much experience paddling on rivers. Always err on the side of caution and keep safe!
Where do I get river levels information?”
Canoe & Kayak Expedition Equipment List
On the water
- Water bottle
- Hat(s) for sunny or cold conditions
- Sunglasses
- Spectacle retainer (if required)
- Sunscreen
- Thermal top and bottom clothing
- Fleece top and leggings
- Waterproof trousers to paddle in (not always necessary if in a kayak)
- Trainers or other footwear you don’t mind getting wet.
- Watertight barrels, dry bags or dry pouches to keep your ‘must keep dry’ kit dry – IMPORTANT.
- If canoeing, you may want to bring knee pads or a kneeling mat for additional comfort
- Tip: Take an extra pair of waterproof trousers to canoe in, they will get wet but an old pair or cheap ones are great for keeping wind off legs.
On the land
- Sleeping bag (warm, small pack size)
- Good set of waterproofs (jacket and trousers)
- Fleece or warm top
- Light trousers
- Spare thermals: top and bottom
- Warm socks & undies
- Gloves
- Shoes
- Tent, sleeping bag & sleep mat*
- Cooking & dining equipment
- Small day sack in case you spend any time on land
- Tips: Avoid denim or cotton clothing because it doesn’t dry quickly and has no thermal properties when wet.
- * If you own a Thermarest or similar brand (inflatable sleeping mat) bring it; they give great comfort and warmth and pack small and light.
- 10 & 20 litre dry pouches are really handy to help keep your kit dry even if already inside watertight barrels or dry bag
Other essentials
- Insect repellent (most likely to be needed from May to September)
- Midge Head Net
- Small toiletries (biodegradable is best) *
- Head torch
- Spare batteries
- Book
- Zip lock bags or small dry pouches for personal items
- Camera (with some way of keeping it dry)
- Swimming costume (just in case!)
- Personal/ Group First Aid kits
- Matches or a lighter
- Tips: *If you can find some small hotel style bottles they are great for decanting soap and taking on expedition.
- It can get cold at night at any time of the year in Scotland so bring enough to stay warm!
Leave No Trace
Everyone has a responsibility to try and minimise their impact on the environment when out enjoying themselves on canoe or kayak expeditions. Keep in mind a few key things and it can make a huge difference.
Plan Ahead and Prepare
– Prepare for extreme weather, hazards, and emergencies.
– Know the regulations and special concerns for the area you’ll visit, e.g. wildlife, rare plants
– Schedule your trip to avoid times of high use (busiest months are May and June).
– Visit in small groups when possible. Consider splitting larger groups into smaller groups.
– Repackage food to minimize waste.
Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
– Durable surfaces include established trails and campsites, rock, gravel, dry grasses.
– Protect the areas of land near to water by camping at least 50 metres from lochs and streams.
– Good campsites are found, not made. Altering a site is not necessary.
- In popular areas concentrate use on existing trails and campsites.
- Keep campsites small. Focus activity in areas where vegetation is absent.
- In pristine areas: Disperse use to prevent the creation of campsites and trails and avoid places where impacts are just beginning.
Dispose of Waste Properly
– Pack it in, pack it out. Inspect your campsite and rest areas for rubbish or spilled foods. Pack out all rubbish, leftover food and litter.
– Deposit solid human waste in cat-holes dug 15-20cm deep, at least 50 metres from water, camp and trails. Cover and disguise the cat-hole when finished.
– Pack out toilet paper and hygiene products.
– To wash yourself or your dishes, carry water 50 metres away from streams or lochs and use small amounts of biodegradable soap. Scatter strained dishwater.
Leave What You Find
– Preserve the past: examine, but do not touch cultural or historic structures and artefacts.
– Leave rocks, plants and other natural objects as you find them.
– Avoid introducing or transporting non-native species.
– Do not build structures, furniture, or dig trenches.
Minimize Campfire Impacts
– Campfires can cause lasting impacts to the backcountry. Use a lightweight stove for cooking and enjoy a candle lantern for light.
– Where fires are permitted, use established fire rings, fire pans, or mound fires.
– Keep fires small. Only use sticks from the ground that can be broken by hand.
– Burn all wood and coals to ash, put out campfires completely, then scatter cool ashes.
Respect Wildlife
– Observe wildlife from a distance. Do not follow or approach them.
– Never feed animals. Feeding wildlife damages their health, alters natural behaviours, and exposes them to predators and other dangers.
– Protect wildlife and your food by storing rations and rubbish securely.
– Control pets at all times, or leave them at home.
– Avoid wildlife during sensitive times: mating, nesting, raising young, or winter.
Be Considerate of Other Visitors
– Respect other visitors and protect the quality of their experience.
– Be courteous. Yield to other users on the trail.
– Take breaks and camp away from trails and other visitors.
– Let nature’s sounds prevail. Avoid loud voices and noises.
These are not meant to be seen as a list of rules, simply some guidelines that can help make a positive difference without spoiling your enjoyment.
Our shuttle service is only available for equipment hire customers [minimum 2 boats and minimum of 2 day’s hire]
We do not offer a shuttle-only service.
If you’re looking for a shuttle-only service and don’t need to hire equipment you should try Highland Yaks, a specialist transport service for locations around Scotland, based near Aviemore.
Care Of The Hire Equipment And Yourself
It goes without saying that for a successful and enjoyable expedition or day out you need to look after your equipment. In particular:
- On rivers, obstacles in your way can damage the boats and potentially you. Think carefully before you decide to attempt rapids or go round fallen trees. If you’re not 100% sure, get out and carry the boat or line it down river.
- Be careful when using paddles to push off or away from land or obstacles. They might break.
- When landing for a break or to camp, look for somewhere that isn’t too rocky that might damage the boat as you land or capsize the boat.
- Make sure you pull the boat right out of the water in case water levels rise and it is washed away. Tie it up for extra security. This also prevents potential damage to the hull of the boat caused by movement of the water rubbing the boat against stones/ rocks underneath – remember you may be liable to damage done to our equipment.
Looking for something that little bit different for a birthday party?
TreeZone Aviemore is a wonderful choice to help make that planned birthday a truly memorable one. Swinging from tree to tree with their friends; what’s not to like?
Why not extend your party and bring your own picnic or birthday cake to enjoy under the trees!
Discounts available for groups of 12+ (excluding July/August)
What are you waiting for?
Please contact us to discuss your booking and how we can make your TreeZone experience unforgettable!
Group Booking Terms and Conditions
These terms and conditions apply to any group with 12 or more participants, smaller groups choosing to pay for 12 places to secure an exclusive session, and any groups who have requested special opening times.
Making a Group Booking
Provisional bookings are not accepted. Payment of a 25% deposit must be made to secure a booking and TreeZone cannot guarantee the availability of your chosen date and time until payment has been received. Final numbers must be confirmed and the remainder paid at least 4 weeks before the date of the booking.
Cancellations
More than 4 full weeks before the booking date – a full refund will be given.
Less than 4 full weeks before the booking date – no refund will be given.
Decrease in Group Numbers
– More than 4 weeks before the booking date – a full refund will be given for each cancelled place (please note that if the final numbers fall below 12, the group rate will no longer be available).
– 4 weeks or less before the booking date – no refund will be given.
Increase in Group Numbers
Subject to availability, group numbers can be increased at any time, including on the activity day, for an additional charge of the standard rate per person. TreeZone cannot guarantee the availability of extra participants.
Need to chat to someone?
It’s a very good idea to as we can’t guarantee a space for you unless you have a booking. If you turn up on the day and we have space then that’s fine too, but we’d hate for you to be disappointed if we were full.
The simplest way to book is online. Alternatively you can pop into the cabin with your payment or call us with your credit/debit card details. Please note that we do not take provisional bookings and full payment will be required at the time of booking.
That is a little bit of a “How long is a piece of string” question! We find that most people take between 1 and 1.5 hours although this can vary considerably depending on how brave and strong you’re feeling on the day and also how busy it is.
You start with one lap on the short course, followed by one lap of the long course if you are tall enough and feeling brave. Otherwise you can take a 2nd lap of the short course instead.
We are lucky to have Red Squirrels, Otters and Ospreys as neighbours, as well as smaller birds. Keep your eye out and you may catch a glimpse of all kinds of nature while you’re up there. Treezone gives unique, spectacular views of the Cairngorm Mountains.
Treezone is year-round fun and operates in nearly all weathers!
High winds, thunderstorms or heavy snow in the trees may force us to close the course for safety reasons. Contact us before you leave home if the weather is looking a little too ‘interesting’.
You will be refunded or given the option to re-schedule if we need to close the course due to weather.
Cameras can be taken with you as long as they are secure so you cannot drop them from the course (we don’t want them to break, or perhaps land on someone’s head!). Other items should be stored safely in a zipped pocket, in one of our small free lockers in the cabin or left in the car or with a spectator.
We do not accept responsibility for your belongings while you are here.
Dress for a couple of hours in the great outdoors and be aware that the weather can change pretty quickly. You will be wearing a harness and wobbling about above lots of spectators so skirts, kilts, dresses and swimwear are not appropriate.
Trainers or walking boots are the best bet for your feet. Sandals, flip-flops, high heels or barefoot are not suitable. We recommend tying long hair back and removing jewellery before arriving.
Medical Conditions
We are not able to give medical advice so we recommend checking with your doctor before you book.
I live with a disability. Will I still be able to take part?”
That depends a lot on the type and severity of the disability you live with. We will always try our best to accommodate people and so far we have had an amazing variety of people who have successfully participated in many of our activities. However, if you are at all unsure, it is best to get in touch before coming along, to discuss things in more detail.
TreeZone Treetop Adventures
We have some more information for you at our Aviemore course, and if you want to come and have a look around before you book to get a clearer idea of what TreeZone entails, then pop in and we’ll happily show you around and discuss your needs.
You will need to be fairly fit and healthy with a reasonable level of mobility. If you struggle on the shorter courses, it may be a good idea to have a second lap of that instead of progressing onto the big courses, which are longer, harder and higher.
If you slip off an obstacle, our safety system will catch you. After a quick giggle you should be able to clamber back onto the course. If you are having a little more trouble, our instructors can come and give you a hand to continue round.
If for any reason you can’t go on and want to return to the ground, our team will assist you. For your safety, it is impossible to leave the course without a Treezone instructor.
Once you are released from the safety system and reach terra firma you cannot rejoin the course. We are unable to make refunds in this situation.
TreeZone always welcomes all feedback. If you have a complaint you must inform us verbally within 24 hours of your session and in writing within a week of your session for your case to be assessed. Any complaints made later than this will not be considered for a refund.
We also like good feedback and you can give us a Trip Adviser Review, Google Review, or Facebook Review, or send us a card and box of chocolates!
- TreeZone places great emphasis on safety, however there is an element of risk involved. On arrival for your session, everyone taking part must be included on a signed Acknowledgement of Risk stating that you understand the risk, and are fit and able to take part. Under 18’s must be counter-signed by an Adult.
- All participants must listen to and follow all the safety instructions given by an instructor, otherwise, they may be removed from the course and no refund will be given.
- We only employ suitably qualified, well-trained staff and use only modern, correctly maintained equipment.
- TreeZone is hazardous by its nature and participants must accept a certain element of risk during their session. Parents and guardians must also recognize the degree of risk to their children.
- To ensure everybody’s safety as far as possible, we reserve the right to postpone or cancel TreeZone sessions, as weather or group needs dictate. If we believe that individuals are placing themselves or others at risk by their actions, we reserve the right to remove the person(s) concerned from the activity.
- TreeZone is certified by the European Ropes Course Association (ERCA). This involves an annual inspection of our courses and safety system as well as our risk assessments, operating guidelines, and training programme. TreeZone instructors check the course thoroughly at the start of every day and are always on hand to help any participant anywhere on the course.
TreeZone reserves the right to cancel any session at any time. This will usually be due to events outside of our control and for safety reasons. In the unlikely event of this happening, we will attempt to reschedule the activity. If this is not possible, a full refund will be given. We do not offer compensation for other costs incurred (for example travel costs).
For bookings of 7 participants or less, cancellations must be made with at least 48 hours’ notice to receive a full refund or a reschedule. Cancellations made with less than 48 hours’ notice (including participants changing their mind on the day or during the session) will not be refunded.
For bookings of 8+ participants, cancellations must be made with at least 14 days’ notice to receive a full refund or a reschedule. Cancellations made with less than 14 days’ notice (including participants changing their mind on the day or during the session) will not be refunded.
Please make sure you arrive on time for your session. If you arrive late, we will try to accommodate you, however this may not be possible, and you will not be refunded.
Please note that once a participant has checked in and is in their climbing harness, we cannot offer a refund if they subsequently decide they don’t want to attempt the course. Additionally, no refunds will be offered once they have started the course.
Under 12 year olds must have an adult on site for the duration of the session. The adult doesn’t need to participate.
It is the customer’s responsibility to ensure that all participants are:
– At least 8 years old for Treezone Aviemore.
– At least 1.1m tall (those under 1.3m will be restricted to the TreeCreeper Course).
– Less than 18st 12lb (120kg).
– Aware of what TreeZone involves and wants to take part.
– Sober and free from the influence of any other substances.
Group organisers should ensure all participants in their group meet these criteria before booking places on their behalf. Refunds will not be offered on the day should any participant fail to meet these criteria.
TreeZone reserves the right to cancel the session without a refund if it becomes obvious to us that any participants do not meet these requirements or if participants are behaving in a way that we believe may spoil the enjoyment of others.
If you’re looking for something a bit different to do with your work colleagues, whether it’s simply to escape the office environment and have a bit of fun as a team, or to use it as part of a team building activity day, TreeZone is ideal.
Not everyone is a fan of heights, so teamwork is essential if everyone is to make it round the TreeZone course. It provides an ideal opportunity to bond as a team in a fun, yet challenging environment and gives you all something to talk about back at the office for the weeks and months to follow.
If you’re planning to visit the area for a day, TreeZone could fit nicely into your plans. Perhaps a round of TreeZone in the morning to work up an appetite, before picking up some picnic supplies at the Rothiemurchus Farm Shop to take down to Loch an Eilein for a relaxing afternoon. Or perhaps drop in to Lomond shores for some shopping while you send the kids around our Loch Lomond Course.
You could tie in TreeZone with one of the other exciting activities on the Rothiemurchus Estate or at Lomond Shores for a fun packed day.
If you’re a stag or hen group staying in the area, TreeZone provides the ideal opportunity to stay out of the pub for a bit longer, clear the heads from the evening before and work up a thirst or appetite for later on.
It’s challenging enough for you to come away thinking that you will deserve that first thirst-quenching drink of the day, but not so difficult that you’ll be wanting to numb the pain!
We find that children and youths not only enjoy the experience, but they also benefit personally from the challenge. For most children, it could well be their first experience of an aerial activity like this, that challenges them both physically and mentally.
First, they have to make the first steps on to the lower level course, which is still high enough off the ground to raise the pulse rate somewhat. They can then progress to the higher, more challenging course, but only if they want to.
This gradual progression allows them to get used to the idea of being high off the ground in very safe environment, learning how to cope with a bit of fear perhaps, but ultimately coming away with a great sense of achievement and greater self-confidence.
Add to this the fact that they are breathing wonderful fresh-air in a superb location close to nature, and it makes for an extremely worthwhile excursion for young people.
TreeZone is open daily, from Easter to October with the first sessions typically starting at 10:00am. At other times of the year, it will be open at weekends, and holiday periods, like Christmas and New Year or the February half-term holiday. Up to date availability can be found on the TreeZone Aviemore or Loch Lomond pages.
