Joe Borrow, one of the world's top mountaineers, returns from a Himalayan expedition to be hailed as a hero following his rescue of a fellow climber. But on his arrival home among the Lake District Fells he is confronted by dishonesty and deceit and suddenly finds himself fighting for his future and his marriage.
Because of his accident and the closure of the centre Joe is faced with a choice - either move to a new job in another Part of the country or accept Stanforth's proposition to set up a revolutionary new complex at Whinn Rigg. There is a price to pay whichever way he decides.
With the new Whinn Rigg nearing completion Joe has to find applicants for the first special course, a task alien to his taciturn personality. Tensions and tempers build as disturbing influences emerge.
As the young executives arrive at Whinn Rigg for the start of the first special course Joe has to decide whether he should jeopardise all their combined work and efforts for the sake of his own personal feelings -or fight.
Still suffering from their 'celebrations' the special course members are taken to the West Highlands of Scotland and isolated on an uninhabited island there. Kath discovers a plot to sabotage the course - but needs Susan's help if she is to warn Joe of his danger.
Uncovering Stanforth's motives for attempting to destroy Whinn Rigg , Joe has a difficult decision to make - and in a desperate confrontation has to call on all his skill and experience if he is to survive.