Conditions Optimales
Description
The site is at an elevation of 657 meters with a height difference of approximately 150 meters. This is a non-official flying zone known for strong wind soaring. It is crucial to fly only with local pilots and to behave responsibly to avoid a permanent ban on flying here.
Parking is available directly at the starting point. The area is suitable for soaring, but be cautious of strong winds at the upper launch site. Landing can be done at the top or slightly below the starting point. It is important to avoid landing in cultivated fields or vegetable gardens to prevent conflicts with landowners.
Flying here is particularly interesting during the winter months, from mid-September to mid-April, although it can often be windy in spring. While thermal activity pauses in much of Europe, this area frequently offers good soaring conditions. The sunny winter climate is also a major draw for pilots looking to escape colder weather.
Algodonales is located midway between Málaga and Jerez de la Frontera, both of which are accessible from Germany via airlines such as Tuifly, AirBerlin, and Germanwings. From these cities, it takes about 1.5 to 2 hours by car to reach Algodonales.
Within an hour's drive, there are eight launch sites to choose from. The main flying area is Mogote, also known as Sierra de Lijar, located directly north of Algodonales. This site, along with Montellano, is ideal for cross-country flights in the region. Other nearby flying areas include El Bosque, Ronda la Vieja, Cañete la Real, and Teba.
The region is influenced by the Atlantic climate due to its proximity to the Grazalema National Park, resulting in less intense heat and frequent west wind conditions.
Weather in Algodonales is typically influenced by the Azores High, except when a low-pressure system passes through. Winds usually come from the north to southeast, but coastal sea breezes can shift the wind direction to west or northwest in the afternoon. This variable wind situation can be challenging for pilots unfamiliar with the area, making local knowledge invaluable.
Standard wind forecasts do not account for the regional influence of the sea breeze. To assess daily flying conditions, it is essential to monitor upper-level winds. A GFS windgram for Algodonales from NOAA can be particularly helpful. The Spanish weather service INM also provides a simple weather forecast for the area. Additionally, a webcam monitoring the Levante launch site is available.
Note that Algodonales is located further west than Germany, meaning thermals start 1-2 hours later and peak in the late afternoon. Flying too early increases the risk of sinking out.
For guides and accommodation, you can contact Gerhard (Gerardo) at Ganterfly or Lijar Sur.
Flights:
http://www.paraglidingforum.com/leonardo/flight/286043
http://www.paraglidingforum.com/leonardo/flight/286047
http://www.paraglidingforum.com/leonardo/flight/287642
Weather forecasts:
http://www.windfinder.com/forecasts/wind_iberia_akt.htm
http://www.ready.noaa.gov/ready-bin/main.pl?Lat=36.88&Lon=-5.44
http://www.aemet.es/es/eltiempo/prediccion/localidades?l=11050&p=11
Webcam:
http://www.ganterfly.de/c/webcam.htm
Guides/Accommodation:
http://www.ganterfly.de
http://www.lijarsur.com
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