Paragliding Piedrahita Peña Negra

Peña Negra, located in Piedrahita, Spain, is renowned as one of the premier paragliding sites globally. It offers a world-class takeoff at an altitude of 1920 meters with a height difference of 808 meters, making it suitable for medium to easy flights. The site is highly frequented and known for its excellent thermal flying conditions, making it ideal for cross-country (XC) flights. Top landing is possible here, although the lower takeoff area below the road is now overgrown and rarely used. During the day, strong anabatic winds can develop, so it's crucial to monitor the conditions and be patient. Optimal flying times can vary, sometimes starting as early as 11 AM or as late as 3 PM. The best period to fly at Peña Negra is from June to September, with mid to late July being particularly favorable before the grain harvest in August. Before flying, it's essential to be aware of the airspace regulations. For instance, classic flights to the west towards Ávila are possible until you encounter restricted airspace. Northwest of Ávila, there is a NOTAM area where flying is permitted but only below 3000 meters. Piedrahita offers a mix of open flatland and mountainous terrain, providing near-ideal conditions for high-altitude flying. It caters to both expert cross-country pilots and beginners needing low airtime sessions. The site has hosted numerous competitions and seen several world records broken. For more information on guides, accommodations, and other details, visit [Fly Piedrahita](http://www.flypiedrahita.com/flypiedrahita/flyingTakeOffs). Steve Ham, located at C/Somoza 20 (road to takeoff) in Piedrahita, is a recommended local guide. You can contact him at +34 920360550. Access to the site is via a tarmac road linking Piedrahita to the Peña Negra pass, with ample parking and a bar open during the summer. The main launch site is usable on 90% of good flyable days. If you need to top land, the best area is near the windsock on the west side of the upper launch. Landing fields are available in the valley, approximately a 4.5:1 glide from the launch. There is a halfway landing field on the spine running down to the right of the takeoff, just before the forested section known locally as Monte de Jura. This area often has about 70 beehives in the summer, earning it the nickname 'The Bees' (Los Ramos). There are also suitable fields in the gully before the forested section next to the road and near the Chalets on the Chalet spine. The official landing field in the valley can change yearly, so it's best to consult with local pilots or Steve Ham upon arrival. For more detailed information, visit [Zonas de Vuelo](http://www.zonasdevuelo.com/zonasvuelo.html?fz=58). Weather hazards include strong easterly forecasts, which can appear fine at takeoff but may be turbulent in the valley. Important airspace restrictions exist after 64 km to the east, so always check the current regulations before flying. Peña Negra offers fantastic thermal conditions for hours of soaring, making it an ideal flying site for both experienced pilots and beginners. The European Championship is also held here, highlighting its significance in the paragliding community.