Paragliding Ciampinoi

Located in Val Gardena, Italy, the Ciampinoi launch site offers a unique paragliding experience, especially during the summer season. The takeoff area is a gently sloping meadow directly below the mountain station, right next to the ski lift, providing an easy start with a stunning view. After takeoff, head left to the ridge and soar approximately one kilometer towards Sassolungo, then gain altitude. Alternatively, you can fly directly to Piz Culac and ascend towards the Sella massif. There are no specific difficulties, but flatland pilots should be aware of valley winds. As with all Dolomite regions, avoid flying during north or south Föhn winds as it can be extremely dangerous. For hang gliders, finding a suitable landing spot nearby is challenging. While there are a few meadows between ski lifts or at the sports field in St. Ulrich, they are not ideal and do not provide a pleasant landing experience. The Ciampinoi cable car in Wolkenstein is the primary access point, but it closes after September 20th, so alternative arrangements are needed during the autumn season. Check the current operating hours at [Val Gardena Cable Car Information](http://www.valgardena.it/de/aufstiegsanlagen/page65.html). For accommodations, Pension Planlim in St. Ulrich is recommended. The area also offers fantastic opportunities for climbing, mountain biking, and via ferrata, although wellness options are limited, with Eghen-Wellness in Canazei being a notable exception. For more information, visit [Ciampinoi Live Webcam](http://www.val-gardena.com/de/ciampinoi-live/page245.html) and [Parapendio Biposto](http://www.parapendiobiposto.it/home/siti-di-volo/trentino-alto-adige/ciampinoi-selva-vg-bz.html). Meeting point for pilots is at Restaurant Pra Valentini, Str. Plan 2, I-39048 Selva Gardena / Wolkenstein Gröden. Contact: 0039 0471 77 33 28.