Often referred to as Rostrevor/Kilbroney Park, this site is more accurately described as Slieveban. It is a south-west facing grassy slope at 400 meters ASL, believed to be owned by the Forestry Commission. On the right day, it provides good soaring over Carlingford Lough with spectacular views of the Lough and the Mourne mountains behind. Although flown by many UHPC/IHPA pilots, the site remains relatively unknown, mainly due to the difficulty in accessing the launch.
The site is generally easy to fly and top land on good days, but it can be more challenging than some of our better-known sites if the weather is less predictable. Factors such as access to launch, the forest, the type of conditions, and available landing sites can complicate the flying experience. Conditions here can vary greatly, influenced by the sun’s effect on the south-west slope, Carlingford Lough, the Mourne mountains, and the valley effect pulling winds up and down the Lough throughout the day. That said, it is often the case that Rostrevor works when other sites in the Mournes are in mist or blown out.
Considering all of these factors, we believe this is an advanced site. Any pilots new to the site should speak with someone who has previously flown here for a site briefing before flying.
Location: Irish Grid Ref J19701658 – GPS 54.083829, -6.171046
Wind Directions: WSW to SSW, 245 – 195 degrees (Best: SW, 220)
Suitability: Paragliding
Pilot Rating: Advanced
Note:
There is a small west-facing slope to the right of launch that is not included in this site guide. Pilots should exercise caution if flying the west face, as there can be rotor from the trees, and flying may be rough due to the accelerated Lough breeze. The small size of the slope and limited landing areas further complicate flying. Any pilot seeking to fly the west slope should seek advice first.
Launches:
There are two launches at this site. The first is the safest but requires the furthest walk, while the second is a shorter walk but involves a steeper and more demanding launch. There are two options for reaching the launch:
- Option A: Drive and park in the top car park of Kilbroney Park.
- Option B: Park in the bottom car park near the mountain bike area and pay £3 for a lift to the top car park at the Bike Centre.
Your choice of parking is important, as the landing fields are in front of the hill, and if you cannot or do not want to top land, it is a 3-kilometer walk back to the bottom car park.
Launch 1 – The Best Launch
From the top car park, walk up the track opposite the car park towards Carlingford Lough, keeping left. At the top, you will see a large stone; this is a good spot to catch your breath and assess the conditions. Do NOT launch here! Continue walking up the track, which takes you around the left side of the hill (opposite to where you think you should be heading). At the top of the hill, you’ll see a broken wall and fence—cross the wall, then start walking back towards Carlingford Lough, keeping the wall to your right. Follow the path along the wall, and the hill will eventually open up, offering spectacular views and access to Launch 1. The walk to this launch takes between 25 and 45 minutes, depending on your fitness.
Launch 2 – The Closer Launch
This launch is closer but requires a steeper slope and offers more challenging top landing options (though you can fly to Launch 1 from here). Start as you would for Launch 1, but after the large stone, walk about 500 yards until you see a bench and a small path to the right (this path is not official but is used by walkers). Follow this path, which leads you up and down towards the Lough, continuing until you reach the end of the peninsula. At the top, walk down 50 meters to reach Launch 2.
Landing Zones:
Landing 1 – Best Option for Top Landing
Top landing is recommended, as there are no official landing fields here. Most farmers in the area are very supportive of the sport and are enthusiastic about watching. In fact, many of us have been offered tea and biscuits by the locals. To keep it this way, please follow the country code rules. Avoid flying near or landing in fields with animals or crops. After landing, gather your glider and move to the edge of the field, always chatting with farmers who engage with you. Do not climb fences, close all gates, and leave no litter.
The main landing fields are in front of launch, on the seaward side of the A2 near Killowen Point. There are some domestic power lines in this area, but fewer of them, and the fields are quite large. There is the added advantage that you can also land on the beach at low tide. However, if you land here, be aware that it’s a 3-kilometer walk back to Kilbroney Park.
Landing 2 – Requires Sufficient Height
Landing at the back of Kilbroney Park should only be attempted if you are flying high (approximately 600+ feet) coming from launch. You can fly out from the hill and west along the Lough. Kilbroney Park sits further back from the hill, so height is crucial. There are two very large fields behind the park where you can land, but be sure to arrive with plenty of height, as this is not an area to be flying low. Large trees are present in this area. Currently, we advise against landing in the park itself.
In Summary:
Rostrevor is a fantastic site on the right day. It offers wave potential from the hill across the Lough, and it often works when other sites in the Mournes are blown out. However, be prepared for a long walk, either to launch or from the landing zone (or both). The site is generally easy to fly when conditions are right, but it is an advanced site overall, considering the access, weather variability, and landing challenges.