Held at the Greenhill YMCA in Newcastle, County Down, the venue was full to capacity as women of all ages and all levels of experience from across Ireland came together for three unforgettable days of adventure, upskilling, and connection. Smiles were contagious, sunscreen was essential, and the good vibes were endless. The theme “Build Strength, Crush Limits” came to life throughout the weekend as participants pushed their boundaries, embraced new challenges, and supported one another in building confidence.
Angela Carlin, a seasoned Mountaineering & Climbing Instructor and long-time contributor to the Women With Altitude event, ran a 'Community of Practice Day' on the Friday for all instructors and observers involved in the event and was co-led by fellow MCI holders Orla Prendergast and Claire Hardy. This informal training was an opportunity to share knowledge among instructors and trainees who were assigned to observe courses over the weekend. The day included open discussions on progressing through climbing awards, assessment preparation, and practical instruction tips.
The opening evening of Women With Altitude 2025 – Mournes began with a warm welcome from Teresa O’Hare of the Mourne Heritage Trust. The evening continued with a fun and lively meet and greet quiz, helping everyone to get to know each other and settle in for the weekend ahead.
The weekend offered 27 full-day activities from scrambling rocky ridges to navigating terrain and rock climbing at all levels, which were led by some of the country’s top female instructors. The instructors were not only highly skilled and passionate about their work, but they were also inspiring role models throughout the weekend. Their commitment to the event was evident in how they shared their expertise and encouragement.
Photo: Some of our amazing instructors getting ready for the weekend ahead!
In her moving address our keynote speaker Cindy Doyle offered a powerful reminder that adventure isn’t always picture-perfect, it’s often muddy, messy, and filled with unexpected detours, yet always worthwhile. Cindy reminded us that we are all capable of more than we realise, and that it’s often the real, unfiltered moments that forge the strongest connections. On behalf of everyone in attendance, sincere thanks go to her for generously sharing her journey, knowledge, and adventures.
The Sunday morning debrief wrapped up the weekend before participants headed out for more activities. The session focused on reflection, making connection with other like-minded women, and setting future goals. The participants shared highlights and challenges from the weekend, discussed their interests and progression in hiking or climbing, and explored training or assessment options. Those not pursuing formal courses considered personal challenges or ways to stay connected. Each participant made a pledge, and had time to network and plan ahead.
None of this would have been possible without the incredible Women With Altitude organising team whose dedication made the 2025 event a huge success.
A special shoutout also goes to the volunteers who helped out throughout the weekend, our wonderful instructors, Greenhill YMCA staff, and every woman who brought energy and enthusiasm to challenge themselves to build strength and crush limits.
The event was a real celebration of what women can achieve when given the space and support to explore their potential.
