Martin

The Munros in Winter by Martin Moran book cover

Martin's autobiography "Higher Ground" was published in 2014 and a new edition re-published in 2021 with foreword from Hazel Moran.

In 1985 he quit his job as an accountant, and he and his wife, Joy, established their home and risked their future to open a new climbing school in Lochcarron, Wester Ross, among some of the world’s most beautiful mountain landscapes. "Higher Ground" describes highlights and dramatic adventures from his guiding life in Scotland, the Alps, Norway and Himalaya.

'A "must read" for anyone who has ever felt drawn to the mountains, whether in Scotland or beyond.' - Undiscovered Scotland

In 1984, Martin Moran became the first person to conquer all 277 Munros in a single winter journey. In this gripping narrative, he recounts his legendary achievement.

The 2020 reissue of this mountain classic has been long-awaited by the outdoor community and now includes a foreword by Martin's wife Joy who shares her own memories of their journey together, 35 years on.

'The first and finest account of climbing Scotland's winter mountains, the greatest challenge our hills have to offer.' -- Cameron McNeish

'The winter completion of the Munros in a single push was not only a tremendous team effort but also Martin and Joy's great love story.' --Sir Chris Boningtonl

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A climb through history...

Martin Moran dedicated his life to adventure in the mountains. It was the breadth of his achievements that made him one of the most influential mountaineers in Britain. However, it was his passion for sharing the spirit of adventure with others that left its mark on so many. Martin relished exploring the mountains with people of all abilities, ages and walks of life.

Martin found his passion for mountains as a young boy living in North Shields, born into a family who had no particular interest in adventure. His dreams of exploring wild places were realised during trips with his local Scout group, mentorship from his geography teacher and reading the tales of great explorers. Martin found deep meaning and purpose in his life through these transformative experiences as a young man and he dedicated his life to offering those same opportunities to others.

“I never especially wanted to be a mountain guide, but it was the hills that opened my soul to the wonders of existence. By the age of eight, they had become a major part of my dreams and imaginings.”

-Martin Moran

A simple Munro on a rainy day in Scotland or an unclimbed peak in the Himalaya, to Martin, a day in the great outdoors was always a day well-spent. He lived his life to the fullest in every way, and for that he will remain an inspiration to us all.

Martin's legacy will live on in all those who step out into the natural world and enjoy the simple pleasures it has to offer.