The Ascent Begins

As a former professional athlete, I’ve faced my fair share of challenges, but the climb up Carrauntoohil with KerryClimbing was an adventure that tested my limits in the best possible way. My fiancée and I arrived in County Kerry, eager to tackle Ireland’s highest peak. The morning of our climb, the weather was less than ideal, with heavy rain drenching us as we set out. But our guide, Piaras, was a beacon of positivity, his enthusiasm infectious as he shared his deep knowledge of the area.

We embarked on the Brother O’Shea’s Gully route, a path known for its challenging terrain. The rain transformed the streams into rushing torrents, adding an extra layer of excitement to our journey. At one point, we found ourselves scaling a near-vertical section, the kind of heart-pounding thrill that I live for. Despite the weather, the camaraderie among our group was palpable, each of us driven by the shared goal of reaching the summit.

A Moment of Magic

After hours of relentless rain, we reached Lough Coumeenoughter, the highest lake in Ireland. The rain had not dampened our spirits, and a few of us even braved the icy waters for a quick swim. It was a surreal experience, the cold water invigorating, and the laughter of my fellow adventurers echoing off the surrounding peaks.

As we continued our ascent, something extraordinary happened. Just fifteen minutes from the summit, the clouds parted, revealing a panorama that took our breath away. It was as if the mountains themselves had decided to reward our perseverance. From the summit, we could see Kenmare to the south and Mount Brandon on the Dingle Peninsula to the north. The view was a testament to the raw beauty of Ireland, a sight that will forever be etched in my memory.

The Descent and Reflection

The descent was a time for reflection, the adrenaline of the climb giving way to a profound sense of accomplishment. Piaras continued to share stories and insights, his passion for the mountains evident in every word. By the time we returned to Cronin’s Yard, we were exhausted but exhilarated, our hearts full from the day’s adventure.

KerryClimbing exceeded all expectations, from the seamless pre-trip communication to the thoughtful follow-up with an album of photos capturing our journey. For those with a thirst for adventure and a reasonable level of fitness, I cannot recommend this experience highly enough. The climb up Carrauntoohil is not just a physical challenge but a journey into the heart of Ireland’s wild beauty, a reminder of why I fell in love with travel and adventure in the first place.