What Rock Climbing Activity is Right for You?
One of the most popular questions I receive is what course do you recommend for me.
The answer to this depends on what exactly you would like to experience or achieve during a course, experience or instruction.
It also depends on your current skill set and how this aligns with what you want to achieve and experience.
Finally, some enjoy a beginner friendly bespoke experience/course where they have specific goals and want something tailored for their specific needs.
While others enjoy the linear learning experience provided by the official Mountaineering Ireland ‘Rock Skills Courses.’
For those with experience that are looking to upskill or move towards independence then maybe a two days course covering anchor building, learn to lead traditional climbing, multipitch climbing, scrambling or rescue techniques.
Please check out our rock climbing course choice road map below as this may help you decide what is the best course/experience for you.
What is the best rock climbing venue for my needs?
The answer to this question depends on your experience, requirements and how adventurous you want to be.
For those looking for a beginner friendly, half day or full day climbing experience with no technical learning, the ideal is a venue is easily accessible and user friendly. Dalkey Quarry or several smaller venues in Wicklow have easy access and are beginner friendly.
If your objective is to experience rock climbing while learning technical aspects but you are looking for a venue with a more adventurous feel then Glendalough Valley is an excellent choice. There are several other amazing climbing areas in the Wicklow Mountains that also have an adventurous feel situated in beautiful surrounds that are appropriate also.
Ultimately after we discuss your goals we will find a suitable venue that provides the best learning outcomes and the most fun.
Weather and Rock Climbing Conditions?
The Rock Climbing season in Ireland generally runs from early mid March to October. Occasionally there are beautiful days outside of this season, but quite often from November to early March the conditions are wet, cold and grim.
If the rock is wet, the rubber on the climbing shoes has less friction and if your hands are wet it is often not possible to feel ones fingers.
To provide a fun, enjoyable and positive experience the rock needs to be dry.
HikeandClimb will always endeavour to find the best possible location for your needs.
Rock Climbing is an amazing activity that can take you to places and situations you can barely imagine. It is also unique in that there is a significant psychological component, which if engaged with can lead to personal growth and a deeper understanding about yourself.
If you would like to try Climbing at any level please pop me an email to info@hikeandclimb.ie or you can message me on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin.
Sending positive vibes and I hope to see you on rock soon.