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Description
This paragliding site in Austria offers an elevation of 1400 meters with a height difference of approximately 750 meters, making it an easy yet rewarding experience. It is particularly popular in the spring (April/May) due to excellent cross-country (XC) opportunities. The site is well-frequented and provides a great starting point for ambitious flights, though a short hike is required to reach the launch area.
The launch site is a large grassy area near a cable car station, with multiple landing options available. The best thermal conditions are from March to May. In the summer, strong valley winds from the west can be expected in the afternoons.
Daily start-landing fees are €2.50, or you can opt for an annual pass at €25. The cable car costs €6.50 per ride, and if you prefer to drive, the toll road fee is €8 per trip. A Summer Card, available from April to October, allows unlimited use of all cable cars in the Montafon region, including Schnifis.
For more information, you can contact Flight Connection Arlberg at http://www.fca.at.
The site is suitable for both paragliders and hang gliders and is an approved training area. It is easily accessible from the mountain station within 2 minutes, heading east along the road. The launch area is a grassy field with a parking lot nearby. Note that the toll machine only accepts coins and is located near a small barn close to the mountain station.
Be cautious of rotors in the launch area during strong west winds and the risk of tailwinds in the summer. A windsock is available at the launch site. In the afternoons, starting around 1 PM, downdrafts or crosswinds can occur at the Hensler launch site.
The region is known for its excellent spring thermals, but it also offers good thermal and cross-country flying opportunities towards the end of summer and in autumn. Schnifis is ideal for southern winds, but launches are also possible with west winds. After flying, you can land in Schnifner Ried and practice ground handling.
Cross-country flights can be made in various directions. To the south, Switzerland beckons, while the Rhine Valley lies to the west. The best routes lead into Montafon and towards Arlberg. The site record, set by Simon Penz in 2008, stands at an impressive 198 km.
Be aware of rotors at the start and the valley wind, which can cause issues in the summer, along with strong west winds. The best launch window in the summer is usually around noon due to the quick onset of side and tailwinds from the valley wind systems.
For cable car inquiries, contact +43 (0)5524 / 81590.
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