Irish Mountaineering Academy
At Irish Mountaineering Academy we run a variety of courses from half day rock climbing experiences to 6 week courses designed to get people outdoors and experiencing the exhilaration of rock climbing, belaying and abseiling in a safe environment. We cater for groups of all sizes and ages.
We provide professional rock climbing training for all levels of climbers at one of the best coastal limestone climbing areas in the world. The Irish Mountaineering Academy is based in Ailladie, Fanore right along the Wild Atlantic way and in the heart of the Burren.
Choose Your Climbing AdventureBeginner climbing courses
ADVENTURE DAYS GROUPS/Family
Intermediate climbing courses
What our clients say
Oonagh Morrissy“I cannot recommend the Irish Mountaineering Academy enough. Ste is a fantastic instructor, very calm and patient. I had no outdoor climbing experience and always felt incredibly safe, he took loads of time to explain different techniques and the routes were always a really fun challenge. It’s the perfect setting too, and I can’t wait to get back for more!”
ciarac575“I did the beginners rock climbing course with Ste. Having climbed a bit while I was back in college I was delighted to find a course that was the perfect mix of hands on climbing, teaching of skills around belaying and ropes, and lots of craic. I went on this course on my own but Ste is full of chat and enables everyone to get to know each other and mix which I also really appreciated. Great idea if you’re looking to meet new like-minded people and learn a cool new skill!!”
Shannon McDonagh“I attended a three day course with Ste on the June bank holiday weekend. Exceeded my expectations completely. As a beginner who had no previous climbing experience, I found this course a great starting point. I’m completely addicted & can’t wait to get out again! Ste was encouraging, well experienced and great craic too which made it more enjoyable! He made all of us super comfortable and we managed to get amazing climbs in over the 3days.”
Natacha Muderspach“The enthusiasm and energy that Stephen brings to climbing is beyond infectious. Without doubt he has the rare ability to make everyone a better climber through a great combination of professional ability AND relentless positivity. From personal experience over the years I can say that Stephen’s skills can cater for everything from the very young all the way to those of more advanced years. Highly recommended.”
Ciaran McCabe“Very professional teaching. Knew exactly how much to push me, all the way from guiding my first super insecure moves on a wall, through proper rock climbing to learning essential climbing skills. While making it fun all along. Always ensured safety was prioritised! Fair warning, Stephens absolute passion for climbing has a tendency rub off on people – you might end up addicted to climbing!”
Ciara O’Flaherty“I would highly recommend Steve as a climbing coach. As someone who came to climbing nervous and with a fear of heights, I found his coaching style fantastic. He explains how to move on the wall simply, and gives lots of helpful tips and techniques to make it all easier. He’s knowledgeable, patient, encouraging and makes it fun ,whatever level you’re starting at. I had heaps of fun on the wall and cant wait to climb again.”
Sinead Noonan“My cousin and I had an amazing day rock climbing in the Burren with our guide Ste. He was so helpful and gave us great instruction and guidance throughout the day! We really enjoyed the day and would highly recommend Ste as a guide! Already looking forward to our next rock climbing adventure in the stunning surrounding of the Burren!”
Emily Navigate17808299206“An absolutely incredible experience! I truly had one of best weekends of my life! Ste is just phenomenal! From beginning he was great, with communication/getting in touch re booking and providing all the information needed before arriving. The whole weekend was filled with adventure and experience. We went to 3 different locations each day where Ste had endless knowledge of the areas and the flora and fauna and history of each spot in depth…”
Iryna Zvarych“Amazing place! You can feel here like in another world, its like other planet! Here the Burren rocks crashed into the ocean, it looks extraordinary! And yes, I have never seen such bright orange sand anywhere in Ireland. Extraordinary nature, I highly recommend it!
Beautiful Ireland 😍”
John K“We went for a family introduction session to outdoor rock climbing and had an amazing experience. None of us had climbed before but Ste started from the very basics and by the end of the session we all had the confidence to push on and take on the bigger climbs. The setting was class, looking out over the Atlantic and the Aran Islands, we even got a visit from the wild goats of the Burren. Couldn’t recommend Ste enough, and looking forward to our next session!”
Ana-Maria O’Brien“Absolutely surreal experience. Stephen is such a great instructor calming and caring and knows when to push you to your limits – in a good way. I had such a great time overcoming my fear of heights surrounded by indescribable nature and beauty. Stephen is so knowledgeable ask for recommendations you will not be disappointed be it for tips on food and drink or climbing equipment he provides great advice. I will be back ☺️”
Lulu R“We had such a fun time, Ste adapted to our timing, levels and abilities and gave us some great climbing tips and challenges! The only regret is that we didn’t have time for a full day of climbing, but we will certainly come back and recommend climbing with Irish Mountaineering as a must to anyone visiting the Burren area. Ste went above and beyond to also give us recommendations for the area!”
anna r“It was a great course in lovely places. Amazing experience, lots of knowledge and challenges. Stephen is a very good teacher who gives us lots of fun and takes care for our safety all the time. I would do it again.”
Eva K“Ste is the best climbing instructor you can have!
Best lifetime experience, will definitely go again! This course is amazing for anyone interested in outdoor climbing, and is placed in the most beautiful place in Ireland!”
Rock Climbing In The Burren
The Burren is a unique and breathtakingly beautiful area in County Clare, Ireland, known for its limestone rock formations and rugged terrain, making it a paradise for rock climbers. The limestone rock of the Burren provides a variety of climbing experiences, from challenging overhangs and steep cliffs to more moderate routes and boulder problems, making it an ideal destination for climbers of all skill levels. The area offers over 500 climbing routes and countless boulder problems.
Climbing in the Burren is a must-do experience for any climbing enthusiast. Whether you’re looking for a challenging climb, an opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Ireland, or simply a fun day out with friends, the Burren has something to offer.
Stephen Hanna, Irish Mountaineering Academy
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