The Netherlands might not be the first country that comes to mind when you think of paragliding due to its flat landscape. However, it offers unique flying experiences, particularly dune soaring along its coast. The country's coastal areas, such as Wijk aan Zee, Zoutelande, and the region from Katwijk up to Camperduin, provide excellent conditions for dune soaring. These sites are known for their accessibility and the opportunity to soar along extensive stretches of dunes, offering pilots the chance to enjoy the sport in a different but equally thrilling environment. The new para-kite technology offer a new playground to paraglider, higher winds are now usable.
Coastal soaring can generally be enjoyed throughout the year, weather permitting. The best conditions are often found with westerly winds, which are common in the country. However, pilots should always check local weather forecasts and consult with local clubs for the best flying times and conditions.
The Netherlands' coastal areas offer conditions suitable for dune soaring, which relies on sea breezes to provide lift along the dunes. Pilots can enjoy long flights along the coast when the conditions are right, with westerly winds providing the necessary lift. However, it's important to note that flying directly on top of the dunes is not allowed, and pilots are expected to kite their wings from the beach into the lift zone. The weather can vary, so being prepared for changing conditions and consulting with local pilots or clubs is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Despite its flat terrain, the Netherlands offers unique paragliding experiences along its beautiful coastlines. With the right conditions, pilots can enjoy the thrill of soaring over dunes, making it a worthwhile destination for those looking to explore different aspects of the sport.
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Where Paragliding | Wijk aan Zee | Spots map
The best spots of Paragliding | Wijk aan Zee
wijk aan zee
Best Conditions
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In Wijk aan Zee, the Netherlands, the site is known for paragliding, particularly for flying in strong wind conditions. Here are some key points regarding the conditions and information related to paragliding in this area:
Take-off Conditions:The take-off area can be very crowded in summer, and access to the dunes can be blocked by numerous beach houses. It is therefore necessary to walk for a while before the houses end. There is also a fence nowadays​
Weather Conditions:The site of Wijk aan Zee is favorable for flying in strong wind conditions. Even the lowest dunes offer the potential for some fantastic flying days when the wind is strong​​.It is possible to check real-time weather conditions, including wind, waves, and weather, which are provided by a local weather station. These data are useful for wind-related sports like paragliding​.
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Langevelderslag
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Dunes are a bit lower than at Wijk aan Zee, but this spot is usually a bit quieter. Drive to the parking at Langevelderslag (paid), walk to the beach and turn right, walk to where the fence ends and there you can launch. Do not start at the beach entrance because the dunes there are protected and off limits.
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Camperduin
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Dune soaring is a popular activity in the Netherlands, especially along the coastal regions. It offers a unique flying experience with many takeoff options available. While the potential for long-distance cross-country (XC) flights is limited, the thrill of soaring along the dunes is a major draw.
In North Holland, Camperduin is a notable spot with the highest dune in the region, standing at 30 meters. This location is particularly favorable for flying even with light winds and side wind directions up to 30 degrees. The optimal wind direction for flying here is 270 degrees, with a flyable sector ranging from 240 to 300 degrees. Pilots typically start at the base of the smaller foredune and soar up to the larger dune. However, in very light wind conditions, it may be necessary to start from the top.
Since the summer of 2014, the coastal section at Camperduin has undergone significant changes, including new dune formations and the creation of a bathing lake between the dunes. These changes may affect the ease of takeoff, so it's essential to check the current conditions before planning your flight.
Please respect the local rules and regulations when flying the dunes in the Netherlands to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
For a visual experience of dune soaring, you can watch this video: [Vimeo - Dune Soaring](http://vimeo.com/37055768).
Popularity: 123 Views
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Langevelderslag Noordwijk
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Langevelderslag, Netherlands This site is known for its medium-height dunes, approximately 14 meters tall. It is frequently used and offers some potential for cross-country (XC) flights. The primary activity here is dune soaring, which is best suited for relatively strong winds, typically ranging from 4 to 6 on the Beaufort scale. To access the launch site, go around the back of the Oase bar and find the entry path. Be cautious of the barbed wire at the base of the dune. This site is not recommended for beginners due to the challenging conditions. It is particularly well-suited for hang gliding (HG) and also good for paragliding (PG). The region is officially recognized by the KNVvL, and a license is required to fly here. The take-off area is located on top of the dune next to the beach restaurant Nederzandt. The site record for distance is 13.2 km. For more information, you can contact Bart Doets at bart.doets@zonnet.nl.
Popularity: 115 Views
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Castricum
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Castricum, located at coordinates N52 33.446 E4 36.619, is known for its extensive dune, the longest in Holland. This site is particularly suitable for dune flying, especially when the wind is coming from the west at approximately 280°. When flying here, it's important to start from the beach and avoid stepping on the dunes to preserve the natural environment. In some sections, there is no fence, making takeoff from below relatively easy. The region is Noord-Holland in the Netherlands. The site record for distance flown here is 14.6 km.
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Wijk-aan-Zee
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This paragliding site in Noord-Holland, Netherlands, offers an exceptional dune ridge soaring experience. You can enjoy flights up to 40 km with some kiting in between. The site provides endless takeoff options, with one of the best spots located below the beach houses. Although you need to walk a bit, it is worth it. The region is known for its excellent soaring conditions along the North Sea Coast. The site record here is 17.5 km. Another nearby site has a record of 14.7 km, and yet another boasts a record of 34.7 km. Several launching possibilities are available from the beach, but be mindful of the environmental issues related to dune erosion. Some locals suggest using Langevelderslag, located south of this spot, as an alternative. If you choose to launch here, keep a low profile and start away from the crowds and parking lot. Always start from the beach and avoid stepping on the dune grass. Minimize sand movement while kiting up. The takeoff area can be very crowded in the summer, with many beach houses blocking access to the dunes. You will need to walk until the houses stop, and there is a fence. Use the small space where the houses end and the fence begins. Climbing over the fence in other areas is prohibited and may result in a fine. Wind conditions are crucial for a good flight. Ideal wind is W 6 m/s, but NW or SW 7 m/s is also suitable. You can start flying from W 4 m/s.Â
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Wijk-aan-Zee 2
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Takeoff from below is a moderately popular option in this area. There are many alternative takeoff options around, including north from here. The coastline changes significantly during the summer, with huts appearing all around. The standard takeoffs near Wijk aan Zee are often very crowded, so it can be beneficial to look for alternative takeoff spots. Be aware that what may appear to be parking nearby is actually designated for bicycles, so you will need to walk a bit to reach your takeoff point.
Flights in the region of Wijk aan Zee, Netherlands, have a site record of 13.7 km. For more information, you can explore local paragliding resources.
Another nearby region in the Netherlands has a site record of 23.2 km and is known for its dune soaring along the North Sea coast.
For Wijk aan Zee, the site record is 13.5 km.
For more details, you can visit local paragliding websites or forums.
Popularity: 103 Views
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Langevelderslag Nordwijk aan Zee
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This takeoff site is situated below the main launch area and is rarely used due to its challenging conditions. There are many alternative takeoff options available that are more favorable. The area is often crowded with tourists and has numerous obstacles, making it less ideal for paragliding. The proximity to Noordwijk adds to the congestion, further complicating takeoff and flight paths.
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Egmond aan Zee alternative
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Launching from the beach between Camperduin and Egmond aan Zee offers a unique paragliding experience. This area in Noord-Holland, Netherlands, provides several alternative takeoff options along the coastline. While it may not be the most popular spot, it can still offer enjoyable flights for those looking to explore different locations.
The site record for this region is 14.0 km, indicating that longer flights are possible under the right conditions. For more detailed information about this location, you can visit local paragliding clubs or forums that discuss flying in the Noord-Holland area.
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Ijmuiden Heuvel Bloemendaal aan Zee
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This beach offers a takeoff point with relatively low dunes, making it suitable for dune soaring. However, it is not the most popular spot, as many pilots prefer to use Langerveldeslag for takeoff. There are multiple launch options available from below the dunes. It is important to familiarize yourself with the specific rules for dune flying in the Netherlands before attempting to fly here.
For more information on flying in this region, you can visit [this link](https://www.paragliding365.com/index-p-flightarea_details_0_10109.html).
Popularity: 93 Views
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Wassenaar
Best Conditions
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Dune soaring is a less common form of paragliding, but it offers a unique experience. In the Netherlands, there are a few notable locations for this activity. In Zuid-Holland, specifically around Wassenaar (coordinates N52 09.739 E4 20.973) and Den Haag (coordinates N52 07.017 E4 17.327), you can find suitable dunes for soaring. Although the dunes here are not very high and smaller dunes in front of the main dunes can reduce lift, it is still possible to fly in north-west winds. For more information on flights near these points, you can check local paragliding resources. The site record for Wassenaar is 5.4 km, while for Den Haag, it is 4.2 km.
Popularity: 92 Views
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Bergen Aan Zee Garrell
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Dune soaring in Noord-Holland, Netherlands offers a unique paragliding experience with endless takeoff options. The site record for this location is 11.7 km. This area is known for its scenic coastal views and consistent wind conditions, making it a suitable spot for both beginners and experienced pilots looking to enjoy a relaxed flight along the dunes.
For more information on flights near this point, you can explore local paragliding communities and forums.
Popularity: 89 Views
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Den Helder
Best Conditions
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Taking off from below is a technique that is rarely used in paragliding. This method involves launching from a lower altitude and gaining height through coastal soaring. Coastal soaring takes advantage of the wind that is deflected upwards by cliffs or dunes along the coastline. This type of flight is less common but can be quite rewarding for those who master it.
For more information on coastal soaring techniques and locations, you might want to check out specialized paragliding forums or local paragliding clubs.
Popularity: 84 Views
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Julianadorp
Best Conditions
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Takeoff from below is a less common paragliding activity, often rated lower in popularity. One such spot for this activity is dune soaring in Nordholland, Netherlands. The dunes here are relatively low, but the scenery is beautiful, and you can often enjoy the experience without many other paragliders around.
The region is suitable for soaring with a westward orientation, specifically from WSW to WNW winds. Although this particular spot is not frequently used, the entire Dutch coastline is generally suitable for soaring activities.
For more information on flights near this point and the flight area record of 3.5 km, you can visit the following link: [Link for more information](https://www.example.com).
Popularity: 83 Views
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Langevelderslag
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Reasonably low dunes but very long. Can fly for km’s here.
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Popularity: 82 Views
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Leihoek
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The site in Noord-Holland, Netherlands, is suitable for paragliding with an east wind. However, it is on the lee side of a barrier, which can create turbulent conditions. The site record is 1.9 km, indicating that it is not frequently used for long-distance flights.
For more information on paragliding in the Netherlands, you can visit the Dutch Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association's website: https://www.knvvl.nl/
Popularity: 81 Views
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Middle of nowhere
Best Conditions
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This paragliding site is located in the middle of nowhere in the Netherlands. It offers numerous takeoff options, allowing you to launch either from below or above, but only on grassy areas, not on dunes. The site has a moderate popularity among paragliders.
The site record for this location is 18.7 km. For more information, you can explore nearby flights and other details through relevant local resources.
Another nearby site in the Netherlands has a site record of 10.3 km.
Popularity: 81 Views
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Abbestede
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The paragliding site in Noord-Holland, Netherlands, is rarely used and primarily suitable for dune soaring. The height range is between 0 to 10 meters. The site record is 3.7 km.
Popularity: 78 Views
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Den Haag
Best Conditions
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Dune soaring in Den Haag (N52 07.017 E4 17.327) can be a unique experience, although the dunes are not very high. The presence of smaller dunes in front of the main dunes can reduce lift, but it is still possible to fly in a north-west wind.
It is important to note that stepping on the dunes is prohibited to protect the environment. Launching from the beach is an option, but be aware of the fences that may be present. Ensure you find a clear area on the beach to set up and launch safely.
For more information on paragliding in the Netherlands, you can visit [Paragliding Netherlands](https://www.paragliding.nl/).
Popularity: 74 Views
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Petten Wester
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Takeoff from the beach in the Netherlands is an option for paragliding, though it is not frequently used. The region offers opportunities for dune soaring, providing endless takeoff options.
In Noord-Holland, the site record is 1.7 km. Another location in the Netherlands has a site record of 3.9 km. A soaring location on the beach has a site record of 6.4 km.
For more information on flights near these points, you can explore local paragliding communities and resources.
Popularity: 73 Views
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Egmond aan Zee
Best Conditions
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Taking off from the beach in Noord-Holland, Netherlands, is an unofficial spot, so it's essential to ask locals for guidance and respect the area. There are multiple takeoff options along the coast, but it's crucial to be cautious and considerate.
In front of a specific building, you can achieve significant altitude. Many pilots from Wijk aan Zee often stop here to gain height. However, it's not always easy, and apart from the building, the dunes are relatively low, which can make it challenging to maintain altitude.
From the beach entry, you need to walk a bit until you pass the beach houses, especially in summer. Look for other paragliders and try to use the same areas for launch. Entering the dunes is prohibited, and paragliding activity is only tolerated in designated areas. On good summer days, the spot can get quite crowded, as it is a well-known site, often referred to as the 'sister' site of Wijk aan Zee.
For more insights, you can check out these videos:
- [Paragliding in Noord-Holland](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LDS0e3EdTOY)
- [Beach Paragliding Experience](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vkWm-hA5V-M)
Popularity: 67 Views
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