Take-off – Bealach na Ba
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- Direction
- NNEESESSWWNW
- Coordinates
- 57.4128, -5.7011
- Altitude
- 593 m
- Region
- Highland, GB
- Landing
- 3.8 km from the take-offView on map ↗
Take-off description
Given no wind, it’s possible to launch from the ground immediately to the east of the road at the head of the Pass itself. Once airborne the best line will generally involve following the road, or sticking close to the cliffs (on the east side of the pass) which can offer more buoyant air at the end of a sunny day.
Getting there
The Applecross peninsula is served by a tortuous single track road which loops off the A896 that runs between Sheildaig to the north and Lochcarron to the south. Fortunately several flying sites are centred around the Bealach na Ba and so are easily accessed by turning off the A896 at Tornapress and following the minor road for a few kilometres to the Pass itself. There is a large carpark at the summit of the Pass, as well as a smaller space with room for a few cars nearer to the head of the pass. Please do not park in the passing places.
Weather
This area is strongly influenced by the sea breeze. There is potential for severe rotor within the confines of the pass in anything other than light conditions. Flying within the Bealach na Ba should really only be considered as a nil wind option.
Rules / airspace
The boundary of the Highland Restricted Area (HRA) just misses out the bulk of the Applecross peninsula. This means that technically, although XC potential is severely curtailed, unlike many of the highland sites midweek flying is an option when the HRA is active. It is however still very important to note that this whole area is often busy with military traffic entering and exiting the HRA and paraglider pilots are strongly recommended to use the military NOTAM service prior to flying here.
Comments
The main Applecross is on the SW facing slopes of Meall Gorm. A flight down the pass itself (the Bealach na Ba) should only be considered as a nil wind option. As this pass is sheltered from a westerly or south westerly wind, it is essential to pay close attention to prevailing conditions before flying here.