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Description
At an elevation of 1380 meters with a height difference of 691 meters, this site is highly frequented and offers excellent thermal soaring conditions. It is suitable for both paragliders and hang gliders, with very good potential for cross-country flights. The routes flown from here tend to be slightly better than those from the south launch, although both are good options.
Located in the Ruhpolding region of Germany, this site is the home mountain of the DCB Ruhpolding club and two flight schools: Flugcenter Ruhpolding and Flugschule Luftikus. The main launch site is right at the top station of the chairlift, which can be reached by car to the valley station and then a comfortable ride up. This launch site is ideal for northern winds.
The southern launch is more challenging and requires flying around the entire mountain to reach the landing zone. Another launch site is located to the west along the ski slope (Unternbergalm) with a NNE direction, managed by Flugcenter Ruhpolding.
There are several landing zones at Unternberg. The main landing zone of the club is in Bärngschwendt, which is spacious and has a tavern. Bärngschwendt also hosts the training hill of Flugschule Luftikus. Another training hill and landing zone are in Gstatt, managed by Flugcenter Ruhpolding, with an additional launch site at 'Weingarten'. The Deltaclub also operates a landing zone at 'Boider' with a small clubhouse, which is also the landing zone for 'Rauschberg'.
Guest pilots are warmly welcomed. For hang gliders, short packing is not necessary for transport with the Unternberg chairlift. The height difference is approximately 700 meters.
Be cautious with east wind conditions as the launch site can be in the lee. Pay attention to the windsock at the eastern summit. Otherwise, the site is suitable for all skill levels, especially beginners.
Unternberg is known for its consistent updrafts due to valley winds, making it almost impossible to sink out. However, it is not the best starting point for cross-country flights. With an elevation of nearly 1400 meters, it is smaller compared to neighboring giants like Rauschberg or Hochfelln. The forested northern slope is not ideal for thermal development, but it allows for hours of soaring along the ridge.
Due to its location between higher mountains, Unternberg is sheltered from regional winds, making it a relaxed flying spot even when conditions are rough at nearby sites. While it may not be the first choice for cross-country pilots, it is perfect for leisure flying from midday to sunset.
For those who manage to climb two to three hundred meters above the chairlift station, the jump to the neighboring Rauschberg is possible. From the rocky northwest flank or the forest belt below, pilots can enter the legendary 'Rauschbergthermik' and continue towards the High Tauern.
For more information, visit: [DCB Ruhpolding](http://www.dcb-ruhpolding.de/index.php?cat=Fluggebiet&page=Unternberg)
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