Best Conditions
Description
Located in the Liguria region of Italy, this paragliding site offers a launch altitude of 610 meters and a height difference of 375 meters. It is occasionally used and suitable for thermal soaring, with the possibility of small cross-country flights. The site is known for its technical toplanding, but alternatively, you can land in fields in Molassana, though it's advisable to check conditions first.
To reach the site, take the A-12 motorway from Genoa to Livorno and exit at Genoa East. After the toll booth, pass through the tunnel and turn left at the first junction. Continue straight for about 100 meters and turn left again at the traffic light. Follow the road along the left bank of the Bisagno River for approximately 4 km until it ends. Turn left onto a bridge, then immediately right, and at the next junction, turn left. After 30 meters, take the road to the right marked "CRETO MONTOGGIO." This winding provincial road will take you past the village of Aggio to Creto at the top of the pass. Continue downhill for about 200 meters until you see the Saisoletti trattoria on the left, where you can park. From here, a short walk of 6-7 minutes along a marked trail will bring you to the launch site.
The launch area is a grassy slope, steep enough to make positioning the wing challenging as it tends to slide on the grass. However, the steepness often allows for an easy takeoff with minimal running.
For landing, the best option is toplanding on a 200-meter-long and 50-meter-wide grassy area just above the launch site. This maneuver is recommended only for experienced pilots due to the dynamic conditions that can make it tricky. Alternatively, you can land in Prato Casalino, a 120-meter-long and 60-meter-wide field surrounded by tall trees, which can create strong wind gradients. Approach from the north to avoid power lines.
Flying conditions are best with winds from the south-southwest. Avoid flying with winds from other directions, especially from the west, as it can be dangerous. The site offers dynamic soaring along a 3 km ridge and two thermal trigger points: one directly in front of the launch and another to the left, past a 130 kV power line. On good days, you can gain significant altitude and potentially reach Monte Alpe Sisa or Casella, about 5-6 km away.
The site is flyable year-round, but in winter, the launch area can be cloud-covered, and prolonged rain can turn Prato Casalino into a waterlogged field. Always visually check landing conditions before taking off.
For more information, visit [Settimocielo Genova](http://www.settimocielogenova.it/) or [Finale Volo](http://www.finalevolo.it/volocreto.htm).
Popularity: 64 Views
