Eype is a picturesque coastal site in the UK, known for its excellent coastal soaring opportunities and potential for cross-country (XC) flights. The site is particularly famous for the "Jurassic Run," a scenic ridge run that can extend all the way to Charmouth under the right conditions. However, the site is only flyable with a rare SSW wind, which limits its usability.
Camping with a view is available, making it a nice combination if the site is on. Toplanding is possible but be cautious of rotors; it's safer to land well off the edge after lift and after the rotor.
For new visiting pilots, it is mandatory to contact a club official for the latest guidance before flying. The local club can be reached through their [website](https://www.dscondors.co.uk/cms/node/240) or their [Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/100008797393908/videos/g.153959454672443/1513867665583132/?type=2&theater).
**Directions:**
From Chideock direction to Bridport (A35), travel along the Bridport bypass. After passing the junction to Bridport, continue uphill on a three-lane road. Look for a junction on the right marked Eype, rest area, etc. Turn right and follow the road, passing the rest area and two small junctions on your right. At the next junction (small grass triangle area with a signpost for Eype), follow this road, pass New Inn Public House and Eype’s Mouth Hotel until you reach the coast. The site is on your left (east). Walk down the steps, cross a small stream, and up the slope towards the caravan site where the take-off area is located.
From Beaminster or Dorchester, follow signs for A35 west (Exeter) at the Texaco filling station roundabout. Continue on the three-lane road until you see signs for Eype. Turn left and follow the directions as above.
**Parking:**
There is a private car park right on the edge of the beach at Eype’s Mouth and parking at the nearby caravan park. Alternatively, you can park at Highlands End caravan park near the reception and walk out to the take-off area through the caravan park. During winter months, parking within the tenting area at Highlands End is allowed on weekdays but vehicles must be removed by 3.45 pm as the main gate will be padlocked.
**Guidelines:**
Take-off is over a near-vertical cliff edge, so beware of rotor. In light wind speeds, the wind at ground level blows up the slope from Eype Mouth but turns into the prevailing wind from the sea once your wing inflates. Exercise extreme caution in higher wind speeds due to rotor and the possibility of being blown backward. It is best to be airborne well before arriving at the cliff edge.
A public right of way exists along the Jurassic coast, so walkers have priority over pilots. Do not lay out paragliders across the footpath; instead, lay out inland of the path. When inflating in readiness to take off, do this on the downwind side of the path and then cross to take off without inconveniencing walkers.
**Bottom Landing:**
Ensure there is a suitable beach to land on before flying, as heavy seas can remove the beach after storms. Beach landing is possible west of the promenade at Westbay and towards Thorncombe, without hindering walkers or sunbathers. Landing on the Westbay main beach is only permissible during winter periods.
**Top Landing:**
Top landing is possible along the front edge of the cliff at take-off, but be aware of the likelihood of rotor. Walkers may be on the footpath, and overshooting could lead to collisions.
**Ridge Run:**
The scenic ridge run can extend all the way to Charmouth in the right conditions. Hazards include the transition onto and around Golden Cap, which is practical only at low tide, and possible difficulties gaining height at Charmouth for the return trip. Use caution in strengthening wind conditions, as the cliff is spine-backed and pilots have been sucked over the back. Study the area well from the air before attempting any crossing of the slip.
**XC Potential:**
Cross-country flights may be possible from Thorncombe Beacon or Golden Cap.
**Hazards:**
Accidents have occurred due to pilots soaring too close to and below the cliff edge. Turn well before the headland to avoid collisions with other pilots. Expect rotor anywhere when flying cliffs. In light conditions, ensure the cliff you are scratching is into the wind. Be prepared to lose height well out in front of the cliffs and even over the sea when preparing for landing.
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