Last weekend, the Youghal Venture Scouts laced up their boots, packed their gear, and set off for a two-night adventure in the stunning Knockmealdown Mountains. What followed was a weekend full of challenge, teamwork, campfire stories—and a few soggy socks!
Into the Wild: The Hike
On Friday the ventures were split into two teams, dropped in separate locations around the sugarloaf. Using only a map and compass they had to navigate their own way to the first camp location. They set out across forestry paths and the open mountain trails. The routes were designed to push everyone a little outside our comfort zones, but nothing our Ventures couldn’t handle! Spirits were high as we wound our way up through thick mist and occasional rain, practicing map-reading and compass skills along the way.
With full packs on our backs and the goal in our sights, we made our way toward a wild campsite nestled near between the Sugarloaf and Knockmealdown summit. The group worked together brilliantly — sharing the load, motivating each other, and showing true Venture Scout spirit.
Nights Under Canvas
Friday night was all about settling in and setting up fast. Tents were pitched efficiently, followed by a well-earned dinner cooked on the trangias. As darkness fell, the group gathered around a small trangia campfire to share stories and reflect on the day’s hike. Even with the fading sun, laughter kept everyone warm.
Saturday brought more hiking — this time taking in panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and rivers. We summited Knockmealdown (794m) before continuing down to a flat spot height between it and Knocknagnauv. Our second campsite was in the valley right in the shadow of Knockmealdown peak. Along the way, Ventures practiced Leave No Trace principles, taking the “travel and camp on durable ground” very serious after a few boggy slips.
Tents were erected once more and the teams split up to practice some semaphore signalling over an extended distance. Following some long range messaging, everyone collected firewood from the nearby forest and began cooking dinner.
The campfire was lit as everyone tucked into some well needed food.
Our second night under the stars was a little more relaxed, trying to spot some constellations in the clear skies. Both dippers were on display and tracking the north star was easily ticked off. Before we could find orion’s belt, clouds came in and everyone retired to their tents. Walkie-Talkie chatter continued late into the night about what it means to take responsibility and lead others—essential parts of the Venture programme.
Learning, Growing, and Leading
This weekend was more than just a hike. It was about building resilience, developing leadership, and strengthening bonds within the section. Each Venture played a role—whether navigating, cooking, setting up camp, or encouraging the team. The feedback from the group was overwhelmingly positive, with many already asking, “When’s the next one?”
We’d like to give a big shoutout to our Scouters for their support, and to the parents and guardians who helped with gear and lifts. This kind of experience is only possible with teamwork—on and off the mountain.
