In the region of Torres Vedras, Portugal, the paragliding site at Santa Rita Beach offers a fine coastal soaring experience. The takeoff is located on the left side of the beach when facing the sea, opposite the hotel, at the top of the cliff. Look for a sign on the road indicating "Miradouro" to find the spot.
The site features a height difference of 40 meters and is oriented towards the West and Northwest. It is situated north of Santa Cruz, a village 15 km from Torres Vedras, which has an aerodrome, an aeroclub, and is close to the Hotel do Vimeiro, thermal baths, and a golf course. The cliff extends to Santa Cruz and ends before the Hotel do Vimeiro at Praia de Santa Rita.
To reach the takeoff, take the first left turn from the road that exits Santa Cruz heading north, onto a road parallel to the coastline, passing by the Faraó nightclub. About 1 km along, there is a dirt and sand detour marked with logs on the sides. The takeoff is about 100 meters from this point. The Hotel do Vimeiro is visible from both the takeoff and the road.
This beach is a popular gathering spot for many paragliders and schools, both local and visiting. The cliff offers a larger height difference at the beach behind the hotel, visible to the north of Santa Rita, which serves as a good alternative during heavy air traffic. The simplest access is through the hotel, although there have been issues with car passage to the takeoff, which are expected to be resolved soon. Alternatively, you can enter the beach from the north side.
The takeoff area is a flat terrain at the top of the cliff, easily identifiable to the left of the parking area where the dirt detour ends. It is suitable for schools and beginner pilots. The wide takeoff area is excellent for top-landing, and flights are possible with NW winds starting from 17 km/h.
Landing is straightforward with normal flight conditions, and there is a large beach extending along the cliff. However, be cautious during high tide as the beach may narrow in some areas. The walk from the beach to the parking or takeoff area takes about 5 minutes.
For more information, visit:
- [Paragliding in Portugal Facebook Page](https://www.facebook.com/Port.paragliding)
- [AVLS Paragliding](http://www.avls.pt/DesktopDefault.aspx?tabid=100)
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