Reservists from 159 Regiment RLC deployed to southern Bavaria for Ex DRAGON BARBARIAN ALPEN (Adventurous Training) in September 2025, completing one of two Foundation courses, Mountain Biking or Summer Mountaineering, and undertaking a two day intro to the other discipline.
With Bavaria in the distance the first glimpse of the Alps was seen from the windows of the combi-van, deep green hills topped by craggy summits shrouded in clouds which held a hint as to the challenges ahead.
For the mountaineers the first trip out saw us set off from Unterjoch for the top of Sorgschrofen (1636m); a more demanding experience than the novices had initially anticipated. The simple path gave way to strenuous steps between rocks and roots, then moving across some more technically challenging terrain. As we approached the summit, we followed the trail via steel cables while trying to avoid glancing down the mountain half-hidden by swirling mists. After accepting the reward of astonishing views of the alpine landscape at the border with Austria, our descent presented a further challenge; it became clear that descending was more mentally difficult than heading up. As a team those more confident spotted for those less so, and morale was boosted once we reached the flat path again. An active-recovery day followed by practicing navigation skills and techniques on the ascent to the Reutewanne which afforded excellent views of our previous peak, highlighting the scale of our achievement.
Our third day involved a long ascent up the Grunten to Ubelhorn top which put some of the group close to their physical limit. It was our highest peak thus far (1745m) and also the longest walk by distance. The achievement of summiting and visiting the Jager Regiment monument was met with rain and mist shrouding around us which unfortunately covered any views. During our group discussions we reflected on reactions to adversity and discussed mental strategies to enhance resilience and leadership; fundamentals we look to enhance through challenges during adventure training.
Day four involved more active recovery for some sore legs – a trip to the astonishing castle Neuschwanstein and the Alpensee, where our practical navigation skills were developed further. Our final trip to the Gaisalpsee near the Nebelhorn required careful study of the weather conditions to avoid the early rain. Fortunately this worked and we enjoyed the sun shining across the waterfall-strewn gorge to a gleaming glacial lake complete with a friendly duck.
Many of our group felt this was their favourite day as they set a good pace, while absorbing the sights and the shape of the terrain. However, I have a sneaking suspicion that a week’s worth of bonding, learning and conditioning contributed to that accomplished feeling.
Meanwhile, the Mountain Bike Foundation course, led by two of our Junior NCOs, took students through a mixture of technical and arduous routes through the mountains. It was agreed by all participants that the course was a resounding success in developing core mountain biking skills as well as enriching fitness, mental robustness, leadership and resilience. Despite the challenges and the muscle ache that came with so much pedalling uphill, all participants thoroughly enjoyed the experience in the mountains.
Comfort zones were certainly widened while negotiating a variety of tracks and trails both uphill and down; the highest point involved a difficult route up to Reutewanne (1539m), planned and led by the group as part of the training objectives. Heading straight out from Wertach lodge, the team found that they had to heft bikes onto their backs and trek over steep slippery grass slopes. Their hard work was well compensated with superb views and a more comfortable descent. Morale was high throughout, with laughs aplenty between the members of the team. It was clear that the two instructors were passionate for their sport which was thoroughly evident by the level of encouragement and information throughout.
The expedition overall offered far more in addition to climbing peaks and navigating alpine trails. It provided a platform for individuals to push past and stretch their perceived limits, confront uncertainty, and develop resilience in demanding conditions. Bringing individuals together from different subunits , all working together on difficult ascents and descents fostered teamwork, communication, and trust within the group, while moments of reflection encouraged self-awareness and growth. For many, it was their first experience of mountain climbing and biking, and for many others, it was the most difficult set they had faced yet. The confidence gained here will serve them in both military and civilian life. The success of the trip was only made possible by the generous support of the Ulysses Trust, whose funding ensures that opportunities for adventure and development remain open to a wide range of participants, strengthening not only individual potential but also the collective spirit of the Army Reserve.
‘The physical and mental endurance I have gained will certainly serve me well during my active shifts as a Nursing Student at Birmingham University. I know I need to be ready for working long hours – now that I understand my limits, I can cope better with otherwise overwhelming situations.’
Pte Angela Uwuah, Nursing Student.
‘For me, the development of the team’s cohesion was the biggest takeaway. I feel like I better understand the inner workings of a team and can better support those less experienced with empathy and patience.’
Pte Wayne Stringer, Warehouse Manager
‘I am a team leader in my civilian job already, and I certainly feel like the opportunity to co-lead the mountaineering section of this expedition has enhanced my leadership skills. I can already think of ways to apply the theory, such as the 5Ps and the concept of ‘stretch zones’. Leading a new team in stressful situations is certainly something I do in my civilian role, and I can directly transfer strategies for improving morale I have learned from this expedition.’Â
Cpl Rosie James, Noise Assessment Consultant
