Paragliding Merthyr

Height: 310 meters, Height Difference: 210 meters This site is rarely used. It offers soaring opportunities and some potential for cross-country flights. It's a nice spot for thermal days. The top landing area is fairly extensive and quite flat, but the lift band is narrow, making it challenging to gain enough altitude for top landing if you drop below the hill's summit. There is no defined bottom landing for the NW side, so if you cannot top or side land, you may need to fly back towards the NW corner of the hill and land by the side of the road or in the emergency bottom landing field (B). Region: Caerphilly, UK. Site record: 56.8 km. [Watch a video of the site](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6heLfL3TK3M) This is an open site. View the [Site Guide](https://paraglidersite.wordpress.com/2013/07/06/mynydd-meio-site-guide/) and [Site Map](https://www.flysouthwales.co.uk/site-guides/mynydd-meio/). Minimum rating for both hang gliding and paragliding is CP. The wind direction is SSW to WSW (210° - 245°), with the best direction being SW (225°). This site is accessible to all suitably insured hang glider and paraglider pilots. The South East Wales Hang Gliding and Paragliding Club's website is currently switched off. Contact them via [WebCollect](https://webcollect.org.uk/sewhgpgc). For more information, email info@paraglidingspots.com. Road access is via minor roads from the A470. Parking is available alongside the road on the verge. Access to take-off is by foot only, involving a short, sharp carry up the hill. The rigging area is large and the take-off is friendly. The top landing area is extensive and quite flat. Paragliders can bottom land on the open hill alongside the road (A), but there isn’t enough room to safely land a hang glider there. The emergency bottom landing field for hang gliders (B) is at the bottom of the hill to the right of take-off. This field is small and the landing approach is difficult. Do not fly a hang glider unless you are sure it’s soarable or you possess the necessary skills to land in the emergency landing field. Avoid landing in any other enclosed fields or climbing walls or fences. This site can be a good choice if Merthyr is blown out. It’s fairly friendly away from the power lines, but the short ridge length and narrow lift band limit the capacity of this site on non-thermic days. Beware of power lines and the TV mast. Keep a sharp lookout for model aircraft. The A470 valley in front of take-off is full of power lines and pylons, so pilots should not attempt to fly to the valley bottom. This site is frequently used by model aircraft pilots. Please respect their right to fly as well as your own. This is an open site and may be flown by suitably insured visiting hang glider and paraglider pilots. For more information, visit the [South East Wales Hang Gliding and Paragliding Club](http://www.sewhgpgc.co.uk/). Local School: [Paraglide UK](http://www.paraglide.co.uk) More information on [Fly South Wales](https://www.flysouthwales.co.uk/site-guides/mynydd-meio/).

Located in the UK, this paragliding site has an elevation of 483 meters and is occasionally used for soaring. The site record is 16.5 km. For more information, you can watch these videos: - [Video 1](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qPI6Uf1Ms-k) - [Video 2](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xcr8xmbnAJE) - [Video 3](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jEevXMdyfco) - [Video 4](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G-G4mdJzhY8) You can also visit the [Fly South Wales site guide](https://www.flysouthwales.co.uk/site-guides/rhigos/) for detailed information. The site is open to all suitably insured hang glider and paraglider pilots. It falls within a Gliding Avoidance Area (2NM SN 918 050). The wind direction ranges from NW to NNE (315° - 023°), with the best direction being N (000°). The SE Wales Hang Gliding & Paragliding Club manages this site. More details can be found on their [website](http://www.sewhgpgc.co.uk/). Take-off is from a grass area in front of the car park, requiring minimal carry. Hang glider pilots need to navigate a barbed wire fence, necessitating a committed take-off. Rigging space is limited, so use the open land behind the road if needed. Always use the stile and avoid rigging in the car park or climbing over fences. For road access, take the A465 (Heads of the Valleys Road) and then the A4061 towards Treherbert, or alternatively, take the A4061 from the Rhondda. Parking is available at a large viewpoint car park by the road. The top landing area is a large field to the east of take-off. Always use the gate and close it behind you. Do not land on Hirwaun Common as it is reserved for a commercial paragliding school. Bottom landing is possible in a rough field adjacent to Tower Colliery, but the field is boggy with long grass and a raised dirt track. A pre-flight visit is essential. Flying here is scenic and often attracts a crowd. A committed take-off is required to clear the fence, and care is needed until height is gained. Hazards include trees, the main road, a reservoir, and power lines to the left of take-off. Sailplanes from a nearby club also frequent the area. The site is flown courtesy of Mr. Mervyn Morgan, who owns and fenced the land. He lives in Rhigos, so adherence to the rules is crucial to maintain access. This is an open site for suitably insured visiting hang glider and paraglider pilots.

Located in the UK, this paragliding site offers a height of 544 meters with a height difference of 100 meters. It's a members-only site, primarily used for soaring, with multiple takeoff options available. The site record stands at 11.6 km, and more details can be found on the SE Wales Hang Gliding and Paragliding Club website. The site is accessible via the B4248 from Blaenavon or Brynmawr. After reaching the cattle grid, take the old mine access road to the foot of the hill. Parking is available by turning right off the mine access road onto a short dirt track. Ensure not to obstruct or park on the tarmac road and avoid driving past the car park turnoff or up the hill to the takeoff point. Takeoff is accessible by foot only, requiring a hard carry up. The top of the hill offers ample space to rig and features an easy, gentle rounded takeoff. For landing, the top landing area is vast but has rough ground and a gently sloping front section. Slope landing for paragliders is generally straightforward. The land between the hill and the road is rough and not recommended for hang glider bottom landing, though paragliders can land there with care. Hang gliders should aim to land on the other side of the road. The flat section of land drops sharply into a bog, so accurate landing is crucial to avoid damage. The bog contains the remains of a Halifax Bomber from 22nd May 1944. Landing on the rough open common to the North of the flat area is advisable if in doubt. The site is friendly, especially later in the day, but can become crowded due to frequent use by schools and low airtime pilots. A ridge run of around 5 km to Varteg is possible under the right conditions. There are no significant hazards, but dogs are not permitted on the hillside. Always leave the gate as you find it. The site is closed for lambing from 1st March to mid-May and is exclusively for members of the SE Wales Hang Gliding and Paragliding Club. For more information, visit: [SE Wales Hang Gliding and Paragliding Club](https://www.sewhgpgc.co.uk/sites/sites.php?site_name=blaenavon) and [Fly South Wales](https://www.flysouthwales.co.uk/site-guides/blaenavon/).

This paragliding site, with an elevation of 418 meters, is rarely used and restricted to members only. Top landing is normal here. For more details, you can watch this video: [YouTube Video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ThKpV8DvtFc). Take-off: The site is accessible from Crumlin or Pontypool via the A472. At Hafodyryns, take the minor road leading to the back of the common and a track. Vehicular access via the track requires permission from the Trustees of the Llanover Estate. Note that the ground can become very boggy during wet months. Alternatively, you can access the site by a public footpath up the shoulder of the hill. Parking: If using the footpath, park at the Mountain Air Picnic Site. Take-off: Minimal carry if using the track, but a long carry if using the footpath. The take-off area is awkward, with tall ferns and ditches to watch out for. Landing: The top landing area (A) is tricky for hang gliders and requires careful planning due to the presence of a mast. Paragliders will find slope landing difficult because of the steepness and bracken cover. Both hang gliders and paragliders can land on the first shoulder (B). Hang gliders should avoid landing on the broken ground near the car park (C), and paragliders need to be precise when landing there. Hang gliders can land on the flat part of the common near the Lamb Inn (D). High-performance hang gliders can also land at the sports field, but this is a long glide and not recommended for intermediate gliders. Flying: During the initial height gain, be cautious of turbulence from the trees below ridge level, which can become severe in strong winds. Hazards: There is a clay pigeon shooting range behind the Mountain Air Inn on Sundays; look for the red flag. Other Rules: This is a sensitive site. Please respect the rights of other users of the common. Site Status: This site is exclusively for members of the SE Wales Hang Gliding and Paragliding Club and the Welsh Free Flight Federation, flown with the permission of the Trustees of the Llanover and Pontypool Estates. For more information, visit: [Fly South Wales - Cwmbran Mountain Air](https://www.flysouthwales.co.uk/site-guides/cwmbran-mountain-air/).

Located in South Wales, UK, this paragliding site features a steep, grassy hill with a height of 440 meters and a height difference of 100 meters. It is a members-only site, accessible exclusively to members of the SE Wales Hang Gliding and Paragliding Club and the Welsh Free Flight Federation. The site is known for good soaring conditions, although cross-country flights are limited. The ridge extends to the SSW past 'the gully' and on to Bedlinog. Pilots often launch from halfway up the hill into the lift band, quickly reaching the top. However, turbulence can occur due to wind flow over Merthyr Common and nearby slag/spoil. Wind Direction: WSW - NW (245° - 315°) Best Direction: W (270°) Take-off involves carrying your gear up the face of the hill, which is a short but steep climb. Be cautious of deep fissures near the edge. The wind at take-off is usually close to the actual windspeed, so do not underestimate it to avoid being blown back into the lee rotor and power lines. Landing options include a large flat top landing area and a bottom landing area on the up-slope side of the mine track. Avoid landing on the other side of the track or in any fields. Access the site via the A465 (Heads of the Valleys Road) or the A4060 through minor roads. Park sensibly along the road, keeping your car in view due to the risk of break-ins. Do not obstruct the mine gate or drive up the hill. Hazards include power lines at the North end, model aircraft flying from an adjacent field, and Foot Launched Powered Aircraft (FLPA) at the South end. Local schools often use the site, and they must be given priority in case of congestion. For more information, visit the [South East Wales Hang Gliding and Paragliding Club site guide](https://www.flysouthwales.co.uk/site-guides/fochriw/). Contact: Paul Dancy, Secretary, SEWHGPGC Training is available through Axis Paragliding UK.

At an elevation of 718 meters, this site offers a hike & fly experience that takes about an hour or more. It's not an official site, but it is regularly used with multiple takeoff options within 500 meters. The site is scenic and has cross-country potential, especially in light southerly and easterly winds. Region: UK Site Record: 71.3 km This is a good cross-country site on light wind days with mainly southerly components. It can be rough in easterly winds. Suitable for all levels of pilots, but be aware that lift can get strong at times. Getting There: From the A40 north from Crickhowell and Bwlch, head towards Brecon. Drive to Talybont village. At the T-junction, turn right past two pubs (The White Hart, which has a bunkhouse, and The Star), and a small shop on the right. If it’s a good day, it's advisable to preplace a car here and share a lift to the top car park, as it can be difficult to get back after a cross-country flight. Turn left up and over the canal swing bridge and follow the road for approximately 8 km past the Tal y Bont reservoir until the road turns left over a bridge and steepens dramatically. Follow it to the top, where there's a large car park on the right. Park here. Takeoff: The SW ridge above the car park is sometimes usable and can be used to hop across to other takeoff points. The best slope in a SW wind is a longer walk-up, approximately 1 hour. Follow a clear path from the car park to the top of the hill. This walk-up shouldn't take more than half an hour. There’s a nice stream to stop and drink from two-thirds of the way up. In a SE wind, another bowl provides a good flying option. There is also a smaller bowl to the east of the main takeoff, which can work when the wind is very light. The NW face and N bowl over the back of the SE bowl have been flown a few times on light and variable days. It’s possible to fly back to Talybont village from these ridges. Specific Dangers: The steep faces at Talybont can cause rotor on landing and curl over on launch. In light wind conditions, the long walk takeoff can have a gentle breeze intermittently blowing up the slope, even in a SE wind, leading to turbulent soaring conditions. The wind can also change direction unexpectedly during flight, making it advisable to use a GPS to monitor ground speed. XC Potential: In a SW wind, be aware that the Beacons drop off sharply, so know where your second climb is or you’ll end up around Brecon for 10 km. In SE or ESE winds, you can track over the highest point of the Beacons, Pen-Y-Fan, and on towards Heol Senni and Fan Gyhirych, from where you can cross to The Black Mountain. Several flights have been made back towards Crickhowell and Abergavenny. The conical hill on the east of the reservoir, Tor-Y-Foel, triggers nicely, especially the top of the treeline above the reservoir. Getting Back: There’s a bus from Brecon, even on Sundays in the summer. A taxi from Brecon to the car park costs about £18. For more information, visit: [Avon Hangliding and Paragliding Club](http://www.avonhgpg.co.uk/sites/talybont.php) [Fly South Wales](https://www.flysouthwales.co.uk/site-guides/talybont/) GPS Coordinates: Takeoff: 51°51'57" N, 3°21'17" W - Elevation: 670 m Landing: 51°50'52" N, 3°22'29" W - Elevation: 442 m Please be careful with top landings as the steep faces can create rotor.

Elevation: 487 meters, Height Difference: 280 meters Soaring and top landing are normal at this site. However, it is a members-only location. The South East Wales Hang Gliding and Paragliding Club's website is currently offline. For more information, contact them via [WebCollect](https://webcollect.org.uk/sewhgpgc). If you have additional details about this site, please email info@paraglidingspots.com. Here are some videos showcasing the site: - [Video 1](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N6w1RMjAMAg) - [Video 2](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7oG9lDWj23Y) - [Video 3](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-U7AtBs6-Ts) - [Video 4](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-xCrO62T7Do) - [Video 5](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1uKX7RoaKFI) This site is accessible only to members of the SE Wales Hang Gliding and Paragliding Club and the Welsh Free Flight Federation. The wind direction ranges from NNE to ENE (022° - 068°), with the best direction being NE (045°). **Road Access:** You can reach the site from the M4 at Bridgend, or from the Rhondda on the A4061. Alternatively, access is available from Maesteg and Port Talbot on the A4017. **Parking:** Use designated car parks and avoid obstructing the road. **Take-off:** Hang gliders should carry their equipment up the hill behind the road, rig, and take off from there, being cautious of rotor at the back of the hill. Paragliders can take off in front of and to the east of the road. **Landing:** Top landings on the hill can be turbulent and require precision. Be aware of severe rotor behind the cliffs and the risk of being pushed back into the valley. Hang gliders have a narrow bottom landing strip at the valley's bottom, which is not accessible for paragliders. Paragliders should use the track area on the bend in the road, which can also be used for hang glider 'fly on the wall' landings. The entire bowl area has rough ground. **Flying:** This is a challenging site with severe rotor behind the cliffs at take-off and behind the road, except for the designated top landing area. It is rarely flown by hang gliders and only occasionally by paragliders. **Hazards:** Rotor as indicated above. **Other Rules:** No flying on Bank Holiday weekends. For more detailed information, visit [Fly South Wales - Cwmparc](https://www.flysouthwales.co.uk/site-guides/cwmparc/).

This site in the UK is rarely used and offers only short flights. It is not an official paragliding location. The takeoff altitude is 538 meters, and the site record is a modest 2.8 kilometers.

Located in Caerphilly, UK, this paragliding site offers a height of 415 meters with a height difference of 180 meters. It's a regularly used soaring ridge with some potential for cross-country flights. The site is suitable for all-season flying, and toplanding is generally straightforward. The site record stands at 17.2 km with a North Easterly wind. The wind direction for optimal flying ranges from NNE to ENE (022° - 055°), with the best direction being NE (045°). Access to the site is straightforward. From the A465 'Heads of the Valleys' road, take the A469 to Bargoed. At Pontlottyn, turn right onto the minor road at the staggered junction with the B4257, near the railway viaduct. Continue up the steep hill, cross over the minor road at the next junction, and follow the single lane track to the take-off area. Parking is available along the edge of the track, but ensure there's enough space for gliders landing or being carried across the track. The take-off area requires minimal carrying and is large and flat with a rounded front. There are no significant obstructions, but be cautious of the high voltage power lines at the bottom of the hill. The top landing area is spacious, flat, and free from major obstructions. Paraglider pilots can also slope land on the front of the hill, though the ground is rough. The bottom landing field is large and slopes uphill towards the road. It’s a long glide and may be challenging to reach in strong winds on an intermediate glider. In emergencies, landing on the rough ground just over the railway line at the foot of the hill is possible. Flying conditions are generally favorable when soarable, with wave lift not uncommon and good height gains possible even in winter. However, be mindful of the power lines in front of the take-off area, the transmitter mast towards the South end of the ridge, and the steep embankment near the bottom landing field. For more information, visit: https://paraglidersite.wordpress.com/2013/07/17/pontlottyn-site-guide/ https://www.flysouthwales.co.uk/site-guides/pontlottyn/ Contact the South East Wales Hang Gliding and Paragliding Club via https://webcollect.org.uk/sewhgpgc or email info@paraglidingspots.com.

Located in South East Wales, UK, this paragliding site is primarily for members of the SE Wales Hang Gliding and Paragliding Club and the Welsh Free Flight Federation. The site stands at an elevation of 356 meters and is best flown in a south wind direction (180°). For vehicular access, take the A467 from Newport or Brynmawr, then the B4591 to Crosskeys. Turn right at the first set of traffic lights, then second left into Cobden St. Continue to the sports fields, then turn right into Blackvein Rd. Follow this narrow road up the steep hill, over the cattle grid, and half a mile later, turn left through the gate to reach the take-off area. If the gate is locked, contact Mr. Sutor at the adjacent farm. For foot access, follow the A468 from Newport or Caerphilly, then take minor roads from Lower Machen. Park at the large viewpoint car park for foot access or at the side of the track to take-off for vehicular access, just before the transmitter mast. Do not obstruct the track or drive onto the common. The take-off area requires a long carry on foot from the viewpoint car park or a short carry over rough ground from the parking area by the transmitter. The South take-off is shallow and over tall trees, making it unsuitable for paragliders. The steep NE take-off is more suitable for paragliders but is rarely used by hang gliders. Top land on the flat ground alongside the transmitter mast. There is no true bottom landing on the NE side, but shoulder landings are possible near the viewpoint car park. For the South face, bottom landings are possible at Machen sports field, though the approach is difficult due to nearby obstacles. Another larger field to the SW of take-off requires a long glide over a quarry and should not be used if it is in crop. Pre-flight checks are advisable as neither field can be seen from take-off. This site can be turbulent in strong winds and is best flown in lighter conditions. Hazards include tall trees on the South side, rotor on the NE take-off, and the TV mast and buildings on top of the hill. For more information, visit: https://www.flysouthwales.co.uk/site-guides/machen/

This location is rarely used and is ideal for those who enjoy walk & fly adventures. It is not an official paragliding site, but it offers multiple takeoff options in the surrounding area. The scenery is beautiful, making it a great spot for speedflying as well. For a visual experience, you can check out this video on Vimeo: [https://vimeo.com/37487480](https://vimeo.com/37487480) and another one on YouTube: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q1EEdWz1izY](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q1EEdWz1izY).

Mynydd Meio, located in Caerphilly, UK, offers a paragliding site with an elevation of 310 meters and a height difference of 210 meters. This site is occasionally used and is suitable for soaring with some potential for cross-country flights, especially on thermal days. The site record is 56.8 km. It is an open site, meaning it can be flown by all suitably insured hang glider and paraglider pilots. The minimum rating required for both hang gliding and paragliding is CP. The wind direction ranges from SSW to WSW (210° - 245°), with the best direction being SW (225°). Access to the site is via minor roads from the A470, with parking available alongside the road on the verge. The take-off area is accessible by foot only, involving a short, sharp carry up the hill. The rigging area is large and the take-off is user-friendly. The top landing area is extensive and quite flat. Paragliders can bottom land on the open hill alongside the road, but there isn’t enough room for hang gliders to land safely there. The emergency bottom landing field for hang gliders is at the bottom of the hill to the right of take-off, but it is small and the landing approach is difficult. This site can be a good alternative if Merthyr is blown out. It is generally friendly away from the power lines, but the short ridge length and narrow lift band limit its capacity on non-thermic days. Pilots should be cautious of power lines, a TV mast, and model aircraft. The A470 valley in front of take-off is full of power lines and pylons, so pilots should avoid attempting to fly to the valley bottom. The site is frequently used by model aircraft pilots, so it is important to respect their right to fly. For more information, you can visit the South East Wales Hang Gliding and Paragliding Club website: http://www.sewhgpgc.co.uk/meio.html or check out the site guide at https://paraglidersite.wordpress.com/2013/07/06/mynydd-meio-site-guide/. Additional details can be found at https://www.flysouthwales.co.uk/site-guides/mynydd-meio/. Local paragliding school: http://www.paraglide.co.uk For any further inquiries, you can contact via https://webcollect.org.uk/sewhgpgc or email info@paraglidingspots.com.

Mynydd Meio, located in Caerphilly, UK, is a rarely used paragliding site with an elevation of 288 meters. It offers some soaring opportunities and the potential for cross-country flights, especially on thermal days. The site record is 56.8 km. The site is open to all suitably insured hang glider and paraglider pilots. The minimum rating required for both hang gliding and paragliding is CP. The optimal wind direction for flying here is from the southwest (225°), though it can accommodate wind directions from SSW to WSW (210° - 245°). Access to the site is via minor roads from the A470, with parking available alongside the road on the verge. The take-off area is accessible only by foot, involving a short but steep climb up the hill. The rigging area is spacious, and the take-off is considered user-friendly. The top landing area is extensive and relatively flat. Paragliders can bottom land on the open hill next to the road, but this area is not suitable for hang gliders. Hang gliders have an emergency bottom landing field at the bottom of the hill to the right of take-off, which is small and challenging to approach. Pilots are advised not to land in any enclosed fields or climb walls or fences. This site can be a good alternative if Merthyr is blown out. However, the short ridge length and narrow lift band limit its capacity on non-thermic days. Pilots should be cautious of power lines, a TV mast, and model aircraft. The A470 valley in front of the take-off is filled with power lines and pylons, so flying to the valley bottom is not recommended. The site is frequently used by model aircraft pilots, and their right to fly should be respected. For more information, you can visit the South East Wales Hang Gliding and Paragliding Club website: [SEWHGPGC](http://www.sewhgpgc.co.uk/). Additional resources: - [Paraglide UK](http://www.paraglide.co.uk) - [Mynydd Meio Site Guide](https://paraglidersite.wordpress.com/2013/07/06/mynydd-meio-site-guide/) - [Fly South Wales](https://www.flysouthwales.co.uk/site-guides/mynydd-meio/) For any further inquiries, you can contact the club via [WebCollect](https://webcollect.org.uk/sewhgpgc) or email info@paraglidingspots.com.

This paragliding site in the UK, with an elevation of 387 meters, is rarely used. It is primarily suitable for soaring. The site record is 1.2 km, and it faces north.

Located in Wales, UK, this paragliding site offers a launch height of 417-430 meters. It is regularly used for soaring and mini cross-country flights. The ideal wind direction for this site is West-Northwest (WNW), although it can become turbulent if the wind is off this direction. The site is managed with the permission of the Trustees of the Llanover Estate and is open to all suitably insured hang glider and paraglider pilots. The minimum rating required for hang gliding is CP, and for paragliding, it is Pilot. Access to the site is via minor roads from Tredegar towards Markham. Parking is available along the edge of the road, but ensure there is enough space for gliders landing or being carried across the road. The take-off area requires a minimal carry, but it can be turbulent in strong winds. The launch area is narrow, with rigged hang gliders and vehicles nearby, so care and control are essential. The true wind speed can be much higher than at launch, so if in doubt, check at the top of the hill. For landing, top landing is easiest on top of the hill, especially in strong winds. In lighter winds, particularly when the wind is off to the North, the area behind the road can be used. Top landing a hang glider in front of the road requires significant experience and precision. Bottom landing is by the side of the road at the bottom of the hill, but this area is small, uneven, and slopes, making it a crosswind landing for hang gliders. An emergency bottom landing field is available outside of the lambing season, but it requires a long carry out over rough ground. The site can accommodate up to 20 gliders in the right conditions, but it can be turbulent in strong winds. Wave conditions are quite common. Pilots should be cautious of moving vehicles and rotor from parked cars if top landing close to the road. Additional rules include not landing in the field adjacent to and south of take-off. If you accidentally land in any field, carry out by the gate and do not climb walls or fences. Paraglider pilots with less than 50 hours logged should only fly this site under the supervision of an Instructor or Club Coach. The site is sometimes used by model aircraft pilots, so please respect their right to fly. For more information, visit the SE Wales Hang Gliding & Paragliding Club website: [SE Wales Hang Gliding & Paragliding Club](http://www.sewhgpgc.co.uk/) Watch a video of the site: [YouTube Video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IfZsRYBIQpE) Detailed site guide: [Fly South Wales - Abertysswg](https://www.flysouthwales.co.uk/site-guides/abertysswg/) For any safety concerns, contact the safety officer at steve@paraglide.co.uk or visit [Paraglide UK](http://www.paraglide.co.uk)

Located in South-East Wales, UK, this paragliding site offers a height of 420-436 meters with a height difference of 270 meters. It's regularly used and known for nice soaring conditions and good cross-country (XC) potential. Top landing is considered normal here. The site is open to all suitably insured hang glider and paraglider pilots. The minimum rating required for both hang gliding and paragliding is CP (Club Pilot). The wind direction ranges from SW to WNW (225° - 293°), with the best direction being W (270°). For more information, you can view the site guide and site map. The South East Wales Hang Gliding and Paragliding Club manages this site, and you can contact them via their website: http://www.sewhgpgc.co.uk/ or through https://webcollect.org.uk/sewhgpgc. Take-off points include: - West: Minimal carry. Be cautious of possible hang glider overshoot on top landing. - Southwest: Very short carry up. Shallow take-off for hang gliders from the top of the ridge. Watch out for paragliders launching lower down. - North: Carry across to the trig point. Mainly used for training. Road access is from the south at Mount Pleasant, as the track from the north is closed. Parking varies by take-off point: - West & North Take-off: Park well back behind the wooden post on the right-hand track or use the left-hand track and park at the base of the hill to the south of take-off. - Southwest Take-off: Park by the side of the road and carry up. Landing areas are extensive and fairly flat, but watch out for rotor towards the top of the track on the right-hand side. Paraglider slope landings can be challenging due to steep, rough ground and debris. There is no bottom landing field, but shoulder landings are possible to the north of the main ridge. This site is friendly with excellent XC potential. The main ridge can support more than 50 gliders in good conditions, although this capacity reduces as the wind shifts north or south. The north face is small and primarily used for training but can be soared in the right conditions. Be cautious of hazards such as a sharp wind gradient in the top landing area and strong sink in the lea of the hill. Avoid landing too far back. Do not land in the sports field adjacent to the railway line unless it's an emergency. For more detailed information, visit: https://www.flysouthwales.co.uk/site-guides/merthyr/ Check out these videos for a visual overview: - [Video 1](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=obeT26spEXA) - [Video 2](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e7JgyrL4PY8) For training, you can contact Axis Paragliding UK.

Elevation: 432 meters This site is rarely used and serves as an alternative takeoff location. No flight logs have been recorded here. Minimum Rating for Hang Gliding: CP Minimum Rating for Paragliding: CP Wind Direction: NW - NNE (315° - 020°) Best Direction: N (360°) This site is open to all suitably insured hang glider and paraglider pilots. Takeoff Directions: - West: Minimal carry. Be cautious of potential hang glider overshoot during top landing when rigging or inflating paraglider canopies. - Southwest: Very short carry up. Shallow takeoff for hang gliders from the top of the ridge. Watch out for paragliders launching lower down. - North: Carry across to the trig point. Mainly used for training. Road Access: The track from the north is closed. Use the track from the south at Mount Pleasant. The entrance is approximately 200 meters south of the 30 mph speed limit sign at Mount Pleasant. Parking: - West & North Takeoff: Park well back behind the wooden post on the right-hand track. Do not drive up to takeoff to unload. Alternatively, use the left-hand track and park at the base of the hill to the south of takeoff. Be vigilant for gliders coming in to land. - Southwest Takeoff: Park by the side of the road and carry up. Landing: - Top landing areas (A & B) are extensive and fairly flat. Be cautious of rotor towards the top of the track on the right-hand side. Paraglider slope landings can be challenging due to steep rough ground and debris in the bracken. - No bottom landing field, but shoulder landings are possible at (C) to the north of the main ridge. The shoulder is frequently used for ab-initio training, so keep a sharp lookout and try to land to the east of the track. Flying: This is a friendly site with excellent cross-country potential. The main ridge can support more than 50 gliders in good conditions. Capacity reduces significantly as the wind shifts north or south, narrowing the lift band. The north face is small and primarily used for training but can be soared in the right conditions. Hazards: - Usual hazards associated with a cliff edge in strong winds. - Sharp wind gradient in the top landing area and strong sink in the lee of the hill. Avoid landing too far back. Other Rules: - Do not land in the sports field adjacent to the railway line unless it’s an emergency. For more information, visit: [Fly South Wales - Merthyr Site Guide](https://www.flysouthwales.co.uk/site-guides/merthyr/) Contact the South East Wales Hang Gliding and Paragliding Club via [WebCollect](https://webcollect.org.uk/sewhgpgc). If you have additional information, please email info@paraglidingspots.com.

This paragliding site in Wales, UK, has an elevation of 362 meters. It is rarely used and primarily suitable for soaring. The site record is 5.0 km.

This paragliding site in the UK has an elevation of 535 meters. It is rarely used and primarily suitable for local soaring. The site record is 1.8 km.

At an elevation of 870 meters, this paragliding site is rarely used and is considered non-official. It is ideal for walk & fly enthusiasts. The location offers opportunities for speedflying and soaring, and even cross-country flights are possible, especially with a southwest wind. The scenery is beautiful, making it a visually rewarding experience. For more details, you can check out these flight logs: - [Flight Log 1](https://www.paraglidingforum.com/leonardo/flight/2718987) - [Flight Log 2](https://www.paraglidingforum.com/leonardo/flight/2718983) - [Flight Log 3](https://www.paraglidingforum.com/leonardo/flight/2718992) - [Flight Log 4](https://www.paraglidingforum.com/leonardo/flight/2277518) Additionally, you can watch a video of the site [here](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q1EEdWz1izY).

Hike & Fly, occasionally used, soaring, XC possible on light wind days. This takeoff direction seems to be less used than the other ones. Region: SE Wales - UK. Site record: 49.7 km. SW facing slope on spur immediately above waterfalls carpark at Talybont. Good XC site on light wind days with mainly Southerly components. Might be rough in an Easterly. Suitable for all levels of pilots but lift can get strong at times. Getting There: Turn left from the A40 North from Crickhowell and Bwlch, on the way to Brecon. Drive to Talybont village. At the T junction, turn right past two pubs (The White Hart is better and has a bunkhouse, though some like the Star), and a small shop on the right (food available here). If it’s a good day, it’s a good idea to preplace a car here and share a lift to the top car park, as it’s often desperate to get back there after an XC. Turn left up and over the canal swing bridge and follow the road around for approximately 8 km past the reservoir (Tal y Bont) until the road turns left over a bridge and steepens dramatically. Follow it to the top, where there's a big car park on the right. Park here. There should be little or no wind in the car park, or it will be blown out. The SW ridge above the car park (A) is OK at times and can also be used to hop across to B or, in a SE, soar with the option of flying round to C. To get there, go back out of the car park entrance and turn immediately right on a clear trail to the top of the hill. This walk-up shouldn't take much more than half an hour and can be done in less. There's a nice stream to stop and drink from two-thirds of the way up. By far the best slope in a SW is the one at B but this is a much longer walk-up - approximately 1 hour. Go out of the back of the car park, up a driveable track and take a clear path off to the left, through to open country and a stile. Head along a track into the bowl, and drop down on a small track to the stream. Cross this and head steeply up to the top of the hill - a hard climb. As elsewhere, the top is clear and easily top-landable anywhere. In a SE wind, C provides a very obvious bowl, which flies well. There is also a smaller bowl to the E of B, which can be the only thing working when it's very, very light. C can be approached via A along a clear walkers path, which continues round to B. If you prefer your short, sharp shock at the beginning of the walk, this can actually be the quickest way to B, particularly if the large combe is very wet (I've had to wade the river a couple of times and the surrounding ground can be very marshy in Winter and Spring). There's even a very nice NW face and N bowl over the back of C, which we've flown a few times on light and variable days. It's possible (but not by any means guaranteed) to fly all the way back to Talybont village from either this ridge or by hopping over the back of the tight bowl behind B (easier). You can land in the football field by the canal. Steep Faces Cause Rotor: Practically all of the faces at Talybont are very steep. This presents two problems: curl over on launch and rotor on landing - in both cases, you either need to be right on the front or 50+ yards back. Specific Dangers: In light wind conditions, it is possible to arrive at the long walk take off (B) to find a gentle breeze intermittently blowing up the slope. This can happen even in a South Easterly wind. The result of this can be very turbulent soaring conditions. In the bowl to the East of take off B, and in other bowls, it is possible to be 'flushed down' when the ambient wind regains supremacy. This has led to injuries with experienced pilots. It is also possible for the wind to take on an unexpected direction change during flight. This is difficult to discern at height but can mean that a slope that once had a gentle breeze blowing up is now in the lee. It is strongly recommended that a GPS be used, so that ground speed can be monitored. XC Potential: In a SW wind you need to be aware that the Beacons drop off very sharply, so make sure you know where your second climb is or you'll end up in or around Brecon for 10 km. In SE or ESE winds, you can track over the highest point of the Beacons, Pen-Y-Fan (there's a couple of ridges running up to it that are easily soarable and a house thermal directly above the flat top), and on towards Heol Senni and Fan Gyhirych, from where you can cross to The Black Mountain. Several flights have also been made in the last couple of years, many by Avon pilots, back in the direction of Crickhowell and Abergavenny. If you're going this way, the conical hill on the E of the reservoir (Tor-Y-Foel) triggers nicely, particularly the top of the treeline above the reservoir. Getting Back: There's a bus from Brecon, even on Sundays in the Summer. A taxi from Brecon to the car park will cost you about 18 quid. Wild scenery, the original WBPC site guide said 'take plenty of water: the closest thing to alpine flying in the UK'. It's a walk up, but boy is it worth it. A huge S-facing bowl that kicks off strong thermals in beautiful scenery. As epic as flying gets this side of Edinburgh. Take off: Different take off depending on the wind direction (SW, E, S, SE & NW) and energy to walk up the hill. For more details please see the club webpage. Landing: Please see the webpage for details. Be careful with top landings as the steep faces (apart from NW take-off) can create a rotor. More information: [Avon Hangliding and Paragliding Club](http://www.avonhgpg.co.uk/sites/talybont.php) [Fly South Wales](https://www.flysouthwales.co.uk/site-guides/talybont/)

This paragliding site in the UK has an elevation of 533 meters. It is rarely used and primarily suitable for soaring. Toplanding is possible here. The site record for distance is 0.6 km.

Elevation: 467 meters This site is rarely used and primarily a soaring location with top landing only. Minimum Rating for Hang Gliding: CP Minimum Rating for Paragliding: CP Wind Direction: ENE - ESE (065° - 105°) Best Direction: East (085°) This site is accessible to all suitably insured hang glider and paraglider pilots, with permission from the Trustees of the Llanover Estate. Take-off: A 100-meter carry along the NE track leads to the take-off area, which is large, flat, and has a nicely rounded front. Be cautious of subsidence cracks near take-off, as they can be obscured by ground cover. Road Access: From the A465 'Heads of the Valleys' road, take the A4046 to Ebbw Vale, and continue south to Cwm. As you leave the village, turn right onto a single-track road alongside a commercial haulier's yard. Drive over the bridge and up the steep hill. Turn right at the top and continue past Manmoel until the tarmac road turns to a rough track. Drive on for another 30 meters until you reach the turning onto the common on the right-hand side. Parking: Park along the edge of the track. Do not drive onto the common. Landing: The top landing area is large, flat, and free from significant obstructions. There is also a large flat shoulder to the north of take-off, which can be turbulent if the wind is from the south. There is no suitable bottom landing field. Paraglider pilots can slope land on the front of the hill but should be aware of the rough ground. Hang glider pilots should decide early to land on the north shoulder if they cannot gain sufficient height to top land. Flying: This site is quite pleasant to fly when conditions are soarable. Wave is not uncommon, and good height gains are possible even in winter. It can be a good alternative to Pandy. Hazards: Be cautious of subsidence cracks near take-off. Other Rules: Please do not drive onto the common. Site Status: Open site - This site may be flown by suitably insured visiting hang glider and paraglider pilots, with permission from the Trustees of the Llanover Estate. For more information, visit: [Fly South Wales - Ebbw Vale](https://www.flysouthwales.co.uk/site-guides/ebbw-vale/) Watch videos of the site: [Video 1](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P_7vv2SSxNU) [Video 2](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m324PUo5d5U)

Talybont, located in SE Wales, UK, is a paragliding site with a height of 645 meters. It is rarely used but offers some soaring opportunities and potential for cross-country (XC) flights on light wind days. The site is primarily suitable for pilots of all levels, though the lift can become strong at times. The site faces southwest and is situated on a spur immediately above the waterfalls car park at Talybont. The best conditions for XC flights are on light wind days with mainly southerly components. However, it can be rough in an easterly wind. **Getting There:** From the A40 north from Crickhowell and Bwlch, head towards Brecon and drive to Talybont village. At the T-junction, turn right past two pubs (The White Hart, which has a bunkhouse, and The Star), and a small shop on the right. If it's a good day, consider preplacing a car here and sharing a lift to the top car park, as it can be challenging to return after an XC flight. Turn left up and over the canal swing bridge and follow the road for approximately 8 kilometers past the Tal y Bont reservoir until the road turns left over a bridge and steepens dramatically. Follow it to the top, where there's a large car park on the right. **Takeoff:** There are different takeoff points depending on the wind direction (SW, E, S, SE, and NW). The SW ridge above the car park is sometimes used and can also be a starting point to hop across to other areas. The walk-up to the top of the hill from the car park entrance takes about half an hour. The best slope in a SW wind is a longer walk-up, approximately 1 hour, from the back of the car park. **Landing:** Top landings can be tricky due to the steep faces, which can create rotor. It is advised to be either right on the front or 50+ yards back to avoid rotor on landing. **Specific Dangers:** In light wind conditions, the long walk takeoff (B) can have a gentle breeze intermittently blowing up the slope, even in a SE wind, leading to turbulent soaring conditions. The ambient wind can regain supremacy, causing pilots to be 'flushed down,' which has led to injuries. Wind direction changes during flight can also occur, making it essential to use a GPS to monitor ground speed. **XC Potential:** In a SW wind, be aware that the Beacons drop off sharply, so know where your second climb is, or you'll end up around Brecon for 10 km. In SE or ESE winds, you can track over the highest point of the Beacons, Pen-Y-Fan, and on towards Heol Senni and Fan Gyhirych, from where you can cross to The Black Mountain. Several flights have been made back towards Crickhowell and Abergavenny. **Getting Back:** There is a bus from Brecon, even on Sundays in the summer. A taxi from Brecon to the car park costs about £18. **Additional Information:** The site is open to all suitably insured hang glider and paraglider pilots. The wild scenery and strong thermals make it a rewarding experience despite the walk-up. For more details, visit the Avon Hang Gliding and Paragliding Club's website: [Avon Hang Gliding and Paragliding Club](http://www.avonhgpg.co.uk/sites/talybont.php) and [Fly South Wales](https://www.flysouthwales.co.uk/site-guides/talybont/). **Minimum Ratings:** - Hang Gliding: CP - Paragliding: CP **Wind Direction:** - NE - SW (045° - 225°) - Best Direction: SE (135°) For more information, please refer to the club webpage.