Best Conditions
Description
Seceda, located in Val Gardena, Italy, offers a paragliding experience that is both challenging and rewarding. The launch site is situated at an altitude of 2350 meters with a height difference of 750 meters, making it suitable for medium to advanced pilots. This site is regularly used, especially for afternoon soaring, and cross-country flights are possible.
The main takeoff is a cliff launch, only suitable for westerly winds. Pilots must have safe reverse start capabilities due to the steep cliff. The landscape is spectacular, providing breathtaking views of the Dolomites.
Access to the launch site is via the Seceda cable car from St. Ulrich. The launch area is located slightly south of the mountain station. The site is recommended only for experienced pilots who can handle reverse launches. The wind and thermals can be quite strong from midday onwards.
After launching, pilots typically aim to reach the 'Pitsch,' a grassy knoll south of the launch site. If unable to reach the Pitsch, pilots can search for thermals along the southwestern edge towards the valley station. Landing is possible at the base station of the Seceda cable car, but avoid landing on the ski slope.
Cross-country flights can be made in various directions, including over the Sella, Langkofel, and Plattkofel to the Seiser Alm, or towards the Marmolada and back. Pilots can also fly over the Geisler peaks to Plose near Brixen or over the Grödner Joch into the Gadertal and further towards the Pustertal. However, be cautious of different wind systems at higher altitudes and valley winds during potential outlandings.
Important: Do not fly with north-westerly winds due to strong lee turbulence, which can be life-threatening. Launching is only allowed next to the signs indicating "Paragliding and Hang Gliding Launch Area." The landing field in Val d'Anna is marked with a sign "Paragliding Landing Field." Do not land on the ski slope.
For more information, visit [Parapendio Gardena](http://www.parapendio-gardena.com/fluggebiet.html) or contact them at Tel.: +39 339 6709659, Email: info@parapendio-gardena.com.
For weather and flight information, you can also reach out to the paragliding club Fly2 at [Fly2](http://www.fly2.info) or Tel.: +39 335 5716500. They offer detailed weather information and guided tandem flights for pilots.
Accommodation is available in St. Ulrich, such as Pension Planlim, which features a swimming pool and a large garden. St. Ulrich can be reached via the A22 (Brennerautobahn) through Innsbruck-Brenner-Klausen (exit Klausen towards Gröden), approximately 20 minutes from St. Ulrich.
For those new to paragliding or with limited experience, professional guidance is available to ensure safe and enjoyable flights in the Dolomites.
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