Team UDA Conquers Ben Nevis for MIND: An Epic Finish to Our Highlands Adventure
After wrapping up an incredible three-day Porsche guest driving experience across the Scottish Highlands, some of the team at Ultimate Driving Adventures decided to take on one more challenge – walking up Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK, all in support of MIND, the mental health charity.
We finished our Highlands tour early that morning, where we’d been out with an amazing group of Porsche owners, including two 911s, four Caymans, and UDA leading the way in our Boxster. Spirits were high, the sun was shining, and with a few sore legs from all the driving, we made our way down to Fort William to start the next adventure.
We kicked off our climb from the Ben Nevis Visitor Centre just after midday. The weather at the bottom was beautiful – clear skies, fresh air – but we could see clouds sitting stubbornly around the summit. We hoped they’d clear by the time we made it to the top. After a quick gear check and a group photo, we set off up the trail, excited but very aware of the challenge ahead.
All ready for the climb...
Not long into the climb, one of our team’s friends unfortunately had to turn back due to a physical issue. Luckily, they were okay and made their way safely back to the base camp to wait for us. The rest of us carried on, determined to make it to the top. The path was steady but tough in places, and it took us around four hours to reach the summit. As we got closer, the temperature dropped sharply.
The clouds were thick, the wind picked up, and patches of snow covered the final stretch. We threw on our jackets, gloves and hats and pushed through the last gruelling part. Standing at the summit, despite the cold and the mist, was a brilliant feeling. We spent about 15–20 minutes taking photos, sharing stories, and just soaking it all in. It wasn't just about reaching the top, it was about what it represented – a real team effort and a nod to the important work MIND does for so many.
At the TOP!
The way down was quicker – about three and a half hours – but it brought a new set of challenges. The knees took a beating and every step was a reminder of how far we'd already come. By the time we reached the bottom, we were sore, tired, but absolutely buzzing. Our friend who had turned back earlier was there to greet us with a big smile. Will from Team UDA even decided to cool his legs off in the freezing river next to the Visitor Centre – brave man!
Cooling off in the river at base camp
To top it all off, we headed into Fort William for pizza and beers. Sitting around the table, laughing about the day and the week we’d had with our guests, it was the perfect end to an incredible adventure. Good food, good company, and a real sense of achievement. Climbing Ben Nevis for MIND was a day we’ll never forget. We’re proud to have raised awareness for such an important cause, and even prouder of everyone who took part. Here’s to more adventures, more challenges, and making even more memories with our UDA family.
Would you like to join us on tour? There's still time to jump on board in 2025 and have a fabulous driving adventure with Team UDA. Scotland and Switzerland are up for grabs!
