A 21-year-old Irish woman tragically lost her life after falling over 100 meters (approximately 500 feet) while rock climbing near Málaga, Spain. The fatal accident occurred on Friday evening in a popular climbing area close to the village of El Chorro, known for its proximity to the famous Caminito del Rey pathway.

A Dangerous Descent Ends in Tragedy

The woman had spent the day climbing with a male friend. According to sources close to the investigation, the pair slipped while returning to their car along a narrow path. The young woman fell into a ravine, while her companion managed to cling to a rocky outcrop, saving his life.

Emergency services were alerted around 7:10 p.m. on Friday, January 10 by the man, who reported that his companion had fallen after climbing near the El Chorro reservoir. Responders, including local police, the Guardia Civil, and paramedics, quickly reached the scene but were unable to save the climber. Her body was recovered from the Swiss Sector, a limestone wall offering dozens of climbing routes.

A Treacherous Climbing Spot

El Chorro attracts climbers and adventurers from around the world due to its challenging terrain. However, it has also been the site of other fatal accidents.

Last month, a British climber died after falling in the same region. The 20-year-old man was attempting a via ferrata in the Puente del Mono (Monkey Bridge) area when he suffered a fatal fall. Both incidents occurred near Caminito del Rey, once notorious as ‘the most dangerous walkway in the world’ before its restoration.

Community Mourns a Life Lost

Police in Málaga confirmed that the victim was an Irish national. Authorities have not disclosed whether she was visiting Spain or residing in the country, nor have they revealed the nationality of her climbing companion.

This tragedy highlights the dangers of rock climbing in high-risk areas. Climbers are urged to prioritize safety, follow designated paths, and be mindful of their surroundings to prevent accidents.

Main image: Shutterstock/davidgomezplaza