Heol Senni

Heol Senni is an excellent thermal and cross-country site above the Senni valley in the Brecon Beacons, south Wales — friendly terrain that flies particularly well for XC. The ridge itself is fairly short and can get crowded in light soaring, but the thermal potential and the airspace above open up nicely for cross-country runs. There is room to take off at either end of the old quarry; the south end has a gentler slope, easier to manage in stronger conditions. Peregrine falcons nest in the quarry — respect the closure during spring breeding.

Launch & conditions

Plenty of room at either end of the quarry; the south end has a gentler slope, easier in strong conditions.

Getting there & local rules

From M4 J45, drive up the Swansea valley on the A4067 past the Dan-yr-Ogof showcaves and over the mountain pass. Past the Cray Reservoir on your left, a right turn signposted Heol Senni — take it, continue just over 2 km, then right up a stony track just after the cattle grid. Park clear of the track and walk up. Hang gliders should drive as far along the track as possible — the carry-up is easier from the south end. Landings: top-landing in front of the wall is quite tricky for hang gliders (okay behind the wall if necessary, except behind the quarry where turbulence is expected). Hang gliders may also bottom-land on the flat area next to the track on the north side of the road.

Local rules & hazards

Sensitive site — share vehicles where possible, do not disturb livestock. Peregrine falcons nest in the quarry — give space during the spring breeding season. In strong conditions, beware the dry stone wall and barbed-wire fence behind takeoff — several gliders have been damaged over the years. Bottom-landing area below the hill slopes away deceptively. Low-flying military aircraft frequent the area on weekdays — use the military freephone service before flying.

Check conditions before you fly

A forecast for the valley is not a forecast for the launch. Before heading to Heol Senni, read the wind and thermals for the site itself, confirm the day's rules with the local club, and remember the standing rule — when in doubt, don't launch. In the free OutDare app you can open Heol Senni with a 7-day forecast built from high-resolution weather models, see who else has been flying, and get there with offline maps.