Irish Woman Dies in 500-Foot Fall While Rock Climbing in Spain

A 21-year-old Irish woman died after falling approximately 500 feet while rock climbing in El Chorro, Spain, on Friday evening. The incident occurred near the Swiss Sector area, close to the Arabic Staircase hiking trail and the renowned Caminito del Rey pathway. Emergency services arrived at the scene at 7:10 p.m. but were unable to save her.

The woman was climbing with a male companion, who survived by grabbing onto a rocky outcropping covered in bushes. He was rescued in a state of shock and later recounted to police that they had taken the wrong route while returning from their climb, leading to the fatal fall. The Civil Guard confirmed the victim’s nationality and age, stating, “I can confirm the woman who died was an Irish 21-year-old.”

This tragic incident follows another fatal accident in the same area last month. On December 11, a 20-year-old British climber fell while crossing a via ferrata route near Monkey Bridge, sustaining injuries that led to cardiac arrest. Despite a helicopter rescue, he was pronounced dead. The Caminito del Rey pathway, once considered the most dangerous walk in the world, has seen multiple accidents over the years, prompting increased safety measures.

The Guardia Civil‘s mountain rescue team, supported by a helicopter from Granada, responded to both incidents. A spokesperson for the team emphasized the dangers of the area, particularly for inexperienced climbers. The Irish Department of Foreign Affairs has been contacted for further information regarding the latest tragedy.