Paragliding Dolomites

Altitude: 2360-2389 meters, Height Difference: 957 meters. This site is considered medium-difficult and is extremely popular during its short season from the end of August to mid-October. The area offers excellent soaring opportunities in front of spectacular scenery, with good heights and cross-country (XC) potential. Access is via the cable car from Campitello until the end of the summer season. The main takeoff direction is East-Southeast (E-SE). This site is only suitable for well-informed, fairly experienced pilots in combination with the right weather conditions. There have been many collisions and accidents here due to ignorance. Region: Trentino, Italy. Site record: 167.7 km. More information: [Fassa](http://www.fassa.com) Region: Trentino, Italy. Site record: 100.6 km. More information: [Fassa](https://www.fassa.com) This spot is NOT for beginners or uninformed pilots. It is crucial to read carefully about the dangers first. Many accidents here are avoidable. For example, do not launch in the afternoon when the SE valley wind creates rotors. Beware of dust devils. Know the rules to avoid collisions in the air. Do not fly on the leeside with sustained wind. Avoid flying here in summer unless you are very experienced. Do not fly with strong wind conditions. Follow the clear rule: if you see a rescue helicopter, do not take off. If you are already in the air, get out of the way quickly. Basic weather information can be found at [Dolomiti Meteo](http://www.arpa.veneto.it/bollettini/htm/dolomiti_meteo.asp), but it is recommended to use several sources for a comprehensive understanding. The Dolomites are NOT a beginner's area. They are only suitable for experienced pilots or those accompanied by experienced guides. During the season, rescue helicopters frequently transport paragliders. To prevent the area from being closed (which has already been threatened), do not take off during helicopter operations and steer clear if you are in the air. Do not start at Col Rodella with a north wind. Be cautious of dust devils from midday onwards, as this spot becomes dangerous due to rotors created by the Fassa Valley wind. The cable car from Campitello operates regularly until mid-October. The Dolomites are also a popular ski resort, making the area crowded and well-developed for tourism. However, the cable car only runs until mid-October. The conditions in the Fassa Valley allow for breathtaking flights, even in the evening. Only experienced pilots should attempt to fly here due to the dangerous conditions.

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.

Altitude ranges from 2260 to 2330 meters with a height difference of 843 meters, classified as medium difficulty. This site is very popular and offers excellent cross-country (XC) possibilities. Flights are frequent in this region. The site is located in Trentino, Italy, with a site record of 167.7 km. More information can be found at [Fassa](http://www.fassa.com). The launch area is a grassy ridge below the summit rocks. It is easier and safer to start from the lower section. Typically, flights begin around midday. Be cautious of the southeast launch as it can become dangerous due to valley winds. Important information about this site can be found at [Parapendio Gardena](http://www.parapendio-gardena.com/dolomiten.html). This site is not suitable for beginners. Experienced pilots or those with experienced guides should only attempt to fly here. The Dolomites are known for their challenging conditions, and there are daily rescue helicopter operations during the season. To avoid the area being closed, please refrain from launching during helicopter operations and maintain a safe distance in the air. For weather updates, visit [Dolomiti Meteo](http://www.arpa.veneto.it/bollettini/htm/dolomiti_meteo.asp). A cable car from Campitello operates regularly during the season, followed by a 10-minute walk to the launch site.

At an elevation of 2370 meters with a height difference of 919 meters, this site is primarily suited for walk-and-fly enthusiasts. Despite having multiple takeoff options, it is infrequently used.

At an elevation of 2305 meters, this paragliding site in Trentino, Italy, is occasionally used and is suitable for hike and fly activities. Cross-country flights are possible from this location. The site record for the longest flight is 26.5 kilometers. For more information on paragliding in Trentino, you can visit local paragliding clubs or regional tourism websites.

This paragliding site is situated at an elevation of 2160-2180 meters. It is regularly used by pilots and offers good conditions for soaring. Cross-country (XC) flights are possible from this location, making it a versatile spot for both leisure and more ambitious flights.

At an elevation of 2245 meters, this paragliding site is located under the Rotwandhütte in Italy. It is a walk-and-fly site, meaning you will need to hike to the launch point. The site is rarely used, but it offers opportunities for soaring and cross-country (XC) flights. The site record for distance is 26.4 km.

At an elevation of 2257 meters, this takeoff spot is an alternative choice for paragliders. While it is not frequently used, it offers good potential for cross-country (XC) flights. The site provides a unique experience for those looking to explore less crowded areas and enjoy the thrill of XC paragliding.

At an elevation of 2235 meters, this site in Val Gardena, Italy, is occasionally used for paragliding, primarily for soaring. There are many takeoff possibilities near the station, depending on the wind conditions. When the wind is calm, head along the ridge for a few minutes towards the south and then take off towards the west. Alternatively, with light updrafts from the west, you can start from the gravel hill located to the west and fly along the slope. Be cautious of lee-side conditions when taking off. This area is generally quiet and free from the hustle and bustle of other flyers, offering a serene experience. The cable car Wokenstein - Dantercepies (sometimes spelled Danterceppies) provides access to this site. Despite being rarely visited, it offers high-altitude launches for cross-country flights under suitable conditions. The alpine scenery includes the Sella massif to the left, Langkofel in front, and the small and large PIC to the right. You can also observe climbers and via ferrata enthusiasts from above. Note that the area is unflyable during a north foehn. Flight Path: From the launch site, head west, gain some altitude, then continue to the nearby Sella massif. Difficulty: Pay attention to the west/east wind systems of the Grödner Joch. Attention Hang Gliders: There are no recommended landing spots in the vicinity. While there are a few meadows between ski lifts or at the sports field in St. Ulrich where you could land in an emergency, it is not ideal. The area being marked as 'suitable for hang gliders' is questionable. Live-Cam: [Dantercepies Live Cam](http://www.val-gardena.com/en/dantercepies-live/page230.html)

Altitude: 2250-2300 meters This site offers a takeoff option suitable for medium strength North winds, ideal for local soaring. Toplanding is possible here. Flights in this region have reached up to 115.8 km. Region: Trentino-Südtirol, Italy For good soaring conditions, ensure the North wind is not too strong. There is another North-facing takeoff option for soaring approximately 600 meters west of this location. For more details, please email info@paraglidingspots.com. Weather information can be found at: [Dolomiti Meteo](http://www.arpa.veneto.it/bollettini/htm/dolomiti_meteo.asp)

This site is occasionally used and is particularly good for afternoon soaring. It offers many takeoff options at higher altitudes, making it suitable for pilots looking for a variety of launch points. For more detailed information, you can visit the provided link: [DHV Leonardo](http://xc.dhv.de/xc/modules/leonardo/index.php?name=leonardo&op=list_flights&takeoffID=10164&year=0&season=0).

At an altitude of 2029 meters, this paragliding site in Italy offers a regularly used spot for soaring, with the potential for small cross-country flights. A cable car is available for easy access to the launch area. Local pilots are often available to provide visitors with weather updates and information about the flying area. For more details, you can visit [Fly2](http://www.fly2.info).

Corvara, Italy offers a challenging paragliding experience with an altitude of 2500 meters. This site is regularly used and is known for its excellent soaring conditions, making cross-country (XC) flights possible. The stunning Dolomite scenery adds to the allure of this location. The best season to fly here is from June to September. This alpine flying site features two launch points: 1. Slightly above the gondola lift station, with an east-facing launch direction. 2. Slightly below the gondola lift station, facing the valley descent with a north-facing launch direction. The site record for this location is 59.1 km. For more information, you can visit the local paragliding community pages or contact local clubs for detailed insights and updates.

The takeoff site at 2200-2230 meters with a height difference of 596 meters is located in Val Gardena, Italy. This site is rarely used and offers a panoramic flight down. The starting point is west of the summit station near a mountain hut, slightly off the ski slope, with a distance of 3.5 km. For more details, visit: [Ciampinoi - Selva Val Gardena](http://www.parapendiobiposto.it/home/siti-di-volo/trentino-alto-adige/ciampinoi-selva-vg-bz.html) Weather information can be found at: [Dolomiti Meteo](http://www.arpa.veneto.it/bollettini/htm/dolomiti_meteo.asp) After takeoff, head left to the ridge and soar approximately one kilometer towards Sassolungo, then gain altitude. Alternatively, fly directly to Piz Culac and ascend towards the Sella massif. Be cautious of valley winds and avoid flying during north or south Föhn conditions, as it can be extremely dangerous. Attention hang gliders: There are no recommended landing sites nearby. Some meadows between ski lifts or the sports field in St. Ulrich can be used in emergencies, but they are not ideal. The area's suitability for hang gliding is questionable. Webcam: [Ciampinoi Live](http://www.val-gardena.com/de/ciampinoi-live/page245.html) Soaring conditions: Ridge directly below the takeoff site to the left. Cable car: Ciampinoi in Wolkenstein. Note that the cable car closes from September 20th during the autumn season. Check current operating times at: [Val Gardena Cable Cars](http://www.valgardena.it/de/aufstiegsanlagen/page65.html) Pilot meeting point: At the landing site, Restaurant Pra Valentini, Str. Plan 2, I-39048 Selva Gardena / Wolkenstein Gröden. Phone: 0039 0471 77 33 28 Accommodation: Pension Planlim in St. Ulrich Access: Via Arlberg, Innsbruck, Brenner, Chiusa, Lajon The area offers fantastic opportunities for climbing, mountain biking, and via ferrata. However, wellness options are limited, except for Eghen-Wellness in Canazei, which is highly recommended.

Altitude: 2290 meters. This site is considered medium-difficult and is regularly used, especially after a nice long flight, for some relaxation before an evening glide to the main landing zone. It serves as an intermediary landing and relaunch spot. This location is suitable for good pilots who are experienced with top landing. Region: Italy. Site record: 16.2 km. Region: Italy. Site record: 4.3 km. Top landing and launch site. You can pause here during flights from Col Rodella and then restart. Although it initially appears to have plenty of space, top landing is recommended only for experienced pilots.

Altitude: 2350 m, Height Difference: 903 m, Difficulty: Easy to Medium This site is frequently used for paragliding, with soaring conditions and limited cross-country possibilities. The south-facing takeoff is more commonly used than the north-facing one. There are various takeoff options available. Region: Dolomites, Italy Site Record: 25.4 km Starting Point: Mountain Station of Belvedere Flights: There are two main takeoffs. The first is behind the Belvedere cable car station on the ridge facing the Marmolada. This takeoff is very technical and recommended only for experienced pilots. It is primarily used with light winds from the south and southeast, and during the early hours of thermal activity until 11:00 am. After this time, the valley breeze in Fassa strengthens, so it is advisable to use a takeoff facing West-Northwest. To reach this takeoff, exit the cable car to the south, turn right, and follow the ridge to the windsock. If you are coming from Pordoipass, park at the pass and follow path number 601 towards 'Col dei Rossi' for about an hour. In winter, it is better to take off from Col Rodella instead of Belvedere. Landing Zones: There is no landing zone near the Belvedere cable car start. Use the landing zones in Campitello. The main landing zone is about 200 meters east of the Col Rodella cable car station, marked by a windsock on the west side. This landing zone is large and easy but be cautious of the power line crossing it. The secondary landing zone is across the river at the beginning of Canazei town, with a windsock in the center. Both landings typically have a west-to-east direction in the morning, shifting to east-to-west in the afternoon. Be aware of trees at the beginning of the landings, which can create rotors in strong breezes. Getting There: From Verona on the A22, exit at EGNA-ORA and follow signs for 'VALLE DI FASSA,' passing through Cavalese, Moena, Predazzo, and up to Canazei di Fassa. From the Brenner Pass (Austria) A22, exit at CHIUSA-VALGARDENA and follow signs for 'PASSO SELLA' through Ortisei and Selva di Val Gardena, then proceed to Canazei. The cable car is located along the main road near Camp Marmolada. For cable car prices and times, visit: http://www.canazei.org/ Weather Information: http://www.arpa.veneto.it/bollettini/htm/dolomiti_meteo.asp http://www.meteotrentino.it/ Pay attention to moderate winds from the North and East, as these conditions can make the area dangerous and turbulent. Flights in spring and summer during the central hours (11:00 am to 5:00 pm) are recommended only for experienced pilots. Contacts: Icarus Flying Team Email: icarus.flying.team@gmail.com President: +39 338 144 9678 Parking: Takeoff Parking GPS: 46.4736 N, 11.7746 E Landing Parking GPS: 46.4773 N, 11.7598 E Website: http://www.dolomitihighfly.com

Altitude: 2515 m, Height Difference: 1096 m, Medium difficulty Walk & Fly: 45 minutes to 1 hour, frequently used. Soaring and cross-country flights possible. Best season: late August to early October Region: Italy Site record: 43.2 km Access: Start from Valentinihütte at Sellapass, where you can park your car. The hike takes about 1 hour along the ridge towards Grohmannspitze on a trail above an earthy outcrop, 200 m higher than the Friedrich-Augustweg. Alternatively, you can start from Col Rodella mountain station, which takes about 45 minutes. The ascent requires a good head for heights but is otherwise not difficult. Thermal flights from Sellapass (Sellasattel, Lokomotive, Grohmanngrat) heading south are suitable for experienced pilots. Soaring flights with top landing on the north side are possible depending on conditions. Top landing options on the north ramp of the Sellapass road are good. The best top landing areas on the Sellapass are on the western slopes between Valentinihütte and Rifugio Salei.

This paragliding site, situated at an altitude of 2100-2350 meters, is occasionally used and offers a walk-and-fly experience, possibly starting from Secada. The site provides several takeoff options, making it versatile for different wind conditions. While soaring is the primary activity here, some cross-country (XC) flights are also possible. For more detailed information, you may want to check local paragliding clubs or forums.

Located in Corvara, Italy, this paragliding site offers a takeoff altitude of 1960 meters with a height difference of 417 meters. It is regularly used for soaring and cross-country (XC) flights, with toplanding being possible. The best seasons to fly here are mainly at the end of the ski season in February and March, as well as from June to September. Access to the launch site is facilitated by a cable car. The launch areas are situated below the mountain station and are suitable for takeoff from southwest to east directions. Pilots should be cautious of rotor turbulence and check the wind conditions at the mountain station exit before launching. For more information on flights near this point and the flight area record of 45.7 km, you can visit the regional paragliding pages.

At an altitude of 2312 meters with a height difference of 890 meters, this paragliding site is considered medium-difficult. It is frequently used for takeoff at the Sellapass. Good cross-country flights are possible, but only for experienced pilots. The takeoff area is small and relatively challenging. It's crucial to catch the first lift successfully; otherwise, the gliding angle won't be sufficient to reach the standard landing zone, forcing you into a risky landing at the riverbed. The best season for flying here is September and October. The region is Canazei, Italy. The site record is 99.8 km. The takeoff spot is named after a rock formation that resembles a steam locomotive when viewed from a distance. If you haven't purchased a ticket to Col Rodella, you might face increased pilot traffic at the takeoff area. The takeoff spot is small and steep but offers an impressive view of the Piz Ciavazes cliff. Pilots must gain altitude along the cliff on their first attempt; otherwise, the gliding angle won't suffice to reach the official landing zones in Canazei or Campitello, leading to a challenging and adventurous landing in the riverbed. The Col dei Rossi takeoff is difficult and recommended only for skilled pilots. It's located directly under the 'Locomotiva' rock formation, 20 minutes from the Sellapass. There are various other takeoff options further east and higher up the slope, but none are easy. The best months for flying in the Fassa Valley are September and October. Takeoff is at an altitude of 2370 meters. From Canazei, head to the Sella Pass ('Passo Sella') and park your car there. Walk 10 minutes east to the takeoff spot at the foot of the cliff, which looks like an engine when viewed from the road from Canazei. Landing is in Campitello, in the valley near the start of the 'Col Rodella' cable car. To get there from Trento, take the highway to Ora, then follow the road east, crossing Cavalese, Predazzo, and Moehna villages. From the north (Germany), take the road through Ortisei village in the Val Gardena valley and then take the 'Passo Sella' pass. This site is a good alternative if the cable car to 'Col Rodella' isn't running. For weather information, visit [Dolomiti Meteo](http://www.arpa.veneto.it/bollettini/htm/dolomiti_meteo.asp). Be cautious of the north wind; if you wait too long, the valley wind from the 'Val Gardena' valley could come from behind, jeopardizing the possibility of starting cross-country flights. For more information, contact the Icarus Flying Team at icarus.flying.team@gmail.com. Parking coordinates: - Takeoff parking: 46.508 N, 11.7681 E - Landing parking: 46.4751 N, 11.7464 E

Located in the picturesque region of Corvara, Italy, this paragliding site offers an elevation range between 2190-2222 meters with a height difference of 683 meters. It is known for its ease of use, making it suitable for pilots of various skill levels. The site is regularly used for thermal soaring, and cross-country (XC) flights are possible, adding to its appeal for more adventurous pilots. There are various takeoff options available, and toplanding is possible, providing flexibility for different flying conditions. The site features two main launch areas: 1. Slightly above the gondola lift station, with an east-facing takeoff direction. 2. Slightly below the gondola lift station, facing the valley descent with a north-facing takeoff direction. The site record for the longest flight is 59.1 km, showcasing its potential for extended flights. For more information on flights near this point, you can visit [link not provided]. This alpine flying site is a great choice for those looking to experience the beauty of the Italian Alps while enjoying the thrill of paragliding.

The launch site is situated at an altitude of 2470 meters with a height difference of 855 meters, making it a medium-difficulty site. This location is very rarely used and is primarily suitable for soaring flights. Access to the launch site is via a cable car from Arraba. The site is suitable for northern winds, both light and medium. However, be aware that valley winds from other directions are probable, which could affect your flight. The launch area is relatively small, so it may require careful preparation and precision. The designated landing area is in Arraba.

At an altitude of 2407 meters with a height difference of 950 meters, this paragliding site is considered easy. The area offers a flat ridge, making it ideal for a relaxed toplanding experience. For an even easier landing, head east-southeast from this point. The ridge is perfect for chilling out before taking off again, with the best takeoff spot located here. Biwak camping is possible in this area, adding to the convenience for extended stays. The Campitello landing zone is within glide angle, ensuring a safe descent. This site is particularly suitable for afternoon intermediary landings, offering a safer and easier alternative compared to Crepa Negra. Region: Italy Site record: 14.2 km Distance to landing zone: 1.5 km

At an altitude of approximately 2250 meters, this paragliding site in Val Gardena, Italy, is rarely used and primarily suited for soaring. There are many takeoff possibilities near the station, depending on the wind conditions. In calm wind conditions, head along the ridge for a few minutes towards the south and then take off towards the west. If there are light updrafts from the west, you can start directly from the gravel hill located to the west and fly along the slope. Be cautious of lee-side conditions when taking off. This location is generally quiet and you are likely to be undisturbed by other flyers. The cable car to access this site is the Wokenstein - Dantercepies (sometimes spelled Danterceppies). Flight: From the takeoff point, head west, gain some altitude, then use the left ridge to gain more height before continuing your flight towards the nearby Sella massif. Difficulty: Pay attention to the west/east wind systems of the Grödner Joch. Attention Hang Gliders: There are no recommended landing spots in the immediate vicinity. While there are a few meadows between ski lifts or at the sports field in St. Ulrich where you could land in an emergency, it is not ideal and certainly not enjoyable. It is unclear why this area is marked as suitable for hang gliders. Live-Cam: [Dantercepies Live Cam](http://www.val-gardena.com/en/dantercepies-live/page230.html)

At approximately 3300 meters, this site is considered medium-difficult and is occasionally used, often regarded as a prestigious takeoff for skilled pilots after an intermediary toplanding. If you are unsure of your abilities, do not simply follow others. While it might seem appealing to land and relaunch here, there are inherent risks. Make sure to gather all necessary information beforehand. Located in the Arabba region of Italy, this site has a record flight distance of 87.5 km. It is suitable only for top landings on calm, windless days and can be quite dangerous, recommended exclusively for experienced pilots. Approach from Pordoispitze with a westward arc towards the southern flank of Mamolada. The northern side is thermally inactive and glaciated. Attempt flights in north wind conditions only if the wind is weak. First, study the thermals calmly on the southern wall. Fly at various altitudes, including the summit plateau and below it—this is crucial. The landing approach is on the northern side, in the lee of the southern wall thermals. Understanding the strength and frequency of thermal releases is essential. Land at the beginning of the pause between thermal releases, which often last 2-5 minutes. Land in the northern part of the plateau, away from rotors. Be cautious of strong sink in the lee; do not misjudge it. For the restart, sprint northward over the descending glacier. This is not always possible, so be prepared for a descent. Crampons might be useful, as well as a functioning phone and radio. This entire endeavor is only suitable for very experienced pilots who can gradually acclimate to the challenge.