Benbradagh is a westerly-facing ridge site spanning nearly 2 miles, with launch positioned at 1250ft above sea level, rising to 1400ft at the cliff. While many cross-country (XC) flights have been achieved from this site, the gradual descent of the land behind the ridge, and the presence of wind turbines makes the firs few kilometres difficult. The site offers stunning views of the valley and the surrounding Sperrin Mountains. It is highly accessible, with the launch area located directly adjacent to the car park, requiring no walking.
Location: Irish Grid Reference C728103
Wind Directions: West, 220 – 290 degrees (best at 250)
Suitable for: Hang gliding and paragliding
Pilot Rating: BHPA Club Pilot; the site is also used by students
Access Information
- Road Access: From Dungiven, turn off the Glenshane Pass onto Curragh Road and drive to the top of the hill. Please observe a low speed when passing the site owner’s house at the hill’s base.
- Parking: Park at the end of the road, just past the gate leading to the launch.
Site Rules and Hazards
- Power Lines: Power lines are located 200m north of launch, with additional power lines and other obstructions present near the bottom landing area.
- Hidden Obstacles: Behind the gate at the road’s end, some obstacles are hidden in the grass; see Top Landing section for additional details.
- Wind Turbines: Large wind turbines are located on the hilltop in the first few kilometres behind the soaring ridge.
Launch and Landing Zones
- Launch: The launch area (marked yellow on site maps) is directly in front of the car park and presents no major issues. Access is via the gate; do not step over the fence as per the landowner’s request.
- Top Landing Zone: The primary top landing area is beside the car park, between the gate and the fence (marked in blue). Avoid landing too close to the fence or the road, and do not approach for top landing directly over parked cars.
- Alternative Top Landing for Hang Gliders: In strong or gusty winds, hang gliders may find it easier to land behind the gate at the end of the road. This area is larger, flatter, and outside the lift band, making it safer in challenging conditions.
- Hazards: Old concrete aerial anchor blocks with attached wires protrude from the ground in some areas. Be mindful of these when landing.
- Bottom Landing Zone:
- Hang Gliders: Use the area near the road junction between the access road and the parallel road by the ridge, located near the site owner’s farmhouse. Land on either side of the road.
- Right Field: Contains a power line at the start and slopes down. The ground here is rough.
- Paragliders: Paragliders may land near the lower hairpin. Limavady Borough Council has installed a stile over the fence here, with the landowner’s permission, at no cost to the club.
Additional Information
- New Stile: A new stile has been installed at the Dungiven West landing area, courtesy of Limavady Borough Council. This stile is suitable for paragliders, offering access over the fence.
Air Traffic Control Restrictions
- None: There are no air traffic control restrictions for Benbradagh.