Paragliding Campo Cecina Alpi Apuane

Campocecina, Italy Elevation: 1334 m Height Difference: 1255 m This site is regularly used for paragliding, offering both soaring and some cross-country (XC) opportunities. Toplanding is possible, and there are various takeoff options, with the best and safest ones located around the area. Flights in this region provide breathtaking views, especially of the Apuan Alps. The takeoff is situated a few meters from a hairpin turn on the road from Carrara to Campocecina. The scenery includes the dramatic marble quarries and peaks like Pizzo D'uccello, Pisanino, Monte Contrario, Grondilige, and the imposing Monte Sagro. The flying conditions are primarily thermal, making it suitable for experienced pilots and cross-country enthusiasts. The technical nature of the terrain requires pilots to be humble and self-aware. Takeoff Details: - Elevation: 1050 m above sea level - Orientation: South/West - West - North/West - The takeoff is steep but not particularly difficult, allowing for immediate launch once the wing is overhead. The panoramic view is highly impressive. Wind Conditions: - Typically, the wind at takeoff is weak, and pilots launch during thermal cycles to take advantage of the thermal gusts. In cases of constant strong wind, caution is necessary due to the distance to the landing field. The lack of forward movement in such conditions might prevent reaching the landing zone, with only marble quarries and steep slopes as alternatives. Toplanding: - Toplanding is possible but technically challenging due to the limited space. A more accessible toplanding area is about 150 meters above the takeoff, in a grassy expanse known as "i pratoni." However, caution is advised due to potential turbulence from thermal activity. Terrain: - Grass and ferns Official Landing Zone: - Located in the center of Carrara, just past the courthouse building. The landing field is long but not very wide, posing no particular difficulty for experienced pilots. However, less frequent flyers should be cautious during the descent. The landing zone appears as a green strip towards the end of Carrara, facing the sea, approximately 5 km from the takeoff. Assess wind intensity carefully before launching to ensure reaching the landing field, as there are no alternative landing options before the official zone. For more information, visit: - [Parapendio Versilia](http://www.parapendioversilia.it/Siti_di_volo.asp?id=03) - [Parapendio Apuane](http://www.parapendioapuane.it/decolli-in-apuane/) Watch a flight video: - [YouTube Video](http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DnqaMLNMLro)