Liathach

Liathach is a huge, steep ridge in the wild North West Highlands of Scotland, launching from around 873 m and rewarding pilots with strong thermic conditions when the mountain is working. The lower slopes are grass and heather; higher up it turns steep and rocky, and this is not a site for anyone unfamiliar with mountain walking and flying — the terrain and remoteness demand real self-sufficiency. Two main paths lead up the mountain, one starting further west and one further east, and pilots simply walk up either until they find a spot they like; the distance isn't huge, but the climb is steep and relentless the whole way, with usable launches appearing near the top of the ridge on both routes. Good launching skills matter here, since the terrain doesn't offer much margin for a poor takeoff. South and southeast winds work the ridge. Once airborne, landing options open up almost anywhere across the glen below, though pilots need to watch for cables. The site also sits inside the Highland Restricted airspace area, so flying is only permitted on set days and times, with military jets using the zone for instrument approaches.

Launch & conditions

Numerous launch spots along two main walking paths up the mountain — pilots climb either route and launch wherever suits. The climb is steep and relentless throughout, and good launching skills are essential near the top.

Local rules & hazards

This site sits in the Highland Restricted airspace area — flying is only permitted on designated days and times, and military jets use the area on instrument approaches. Expect frequent rain, typical of the North West Highlands.

Check conditions before you fly

A forecast for the valley is not a forecast for the launch. Before heading to Liathach, 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 Liathach with a 7-day forecast built from high-resolution weather models, see who else has been flying, and get there with offline maps.